What Style of Skirts Are On Trend for 2026

The skirt trends for 2026 are all about drama, volume, and unapologetic femininity—think Victorian-inspired hoop skirts, sculptural balloon silhouettes, and party-ready sequined numbers that demand attention. After years of minimalism, fashion is embracing maximalist shapes that celebrate curves and movement, from the runways of Dior and Simone Rocha to the high street shops we all love. If you've been living in jeans and trousers, 2026 is the year to reclaim your wardrobe with statement skirts that do all the styling work for you.

I've been styling clients for over fifteen years, and I haven't seen this level of excitement around skirts since the midi revolution. The Spring/Summer 2026 shows were absolutely packed with voluminous silhouettes that felt both historical and completely fresh. Let me walk you through exactly what's happening and how to wear these trends in real life.

The Crinoline & Hoop Skirt Revival

Right, let's address the elephant—or should I say, the enormous skirt—in the room. Designers have gone full Victorian with hoop skirts and panniers that exaggerate the hips in the most dramatic way possible. Simone Rocha's ethereal chiffon versions at London Fashion Week were breathtaking, whilst Dior and Dries Van Noten gave us structured iterations that somehow felt modern.

Now, I know what you're thinking: "Am I actually going to wear a hoop skirt to Tesco?" Probably not. But here's the thing—this trend translates brilliantly into wearable versions. Look for skirts with subtle volume at the hips, peplum details, or gathered sides that nod to the trend without requiring you to turn sideways through doorways.

For high street options, Zara (the Spanish fast-fashion powerhouse known for bringing runway trends to the masses within weeks) already has semi-structured midi skirts with hip interest. COS (the minimalist Scandi brand beloved for architectural cuts and quality fabrics) is doing beautiful sculptural skirts in neutral tones that feel wearable yet fashion-forward. For something more directional, & Other Stories (H&M's cool older sister with Parisian-inspired pieces) offers skirts with interesting volume that won't break the bank.

Balloon & Bubble Skirts

If you thought bubble skirts were confined to the 1980s, think again. They're back, and they're absolutely everywhere for 2026—but in longer, more sophisticated iterations than you remember. These skirts gather at the hem to create a rounded silhouette that's playful without being juvenile.

The key to styling balloon skirts is keeping everything else streamlined. I always pair them with fitted knits or sleek bodysuits to balance the volume. Avoid chunky jumpers unless you want to look like you're drowning in fabric.

Mango (the Barcelona-based brand that rivals Zara for trend-led affordable fashion) has stunning balloon midi skirts in rich autumnal tones. H&M (the Swedish giant offering trend-conscious basics at wallet-friendly prices) is doing playful versions in metallics and prints. For a premium take, Reiss (the British contemporary label favoured for occasion wear and elevated basics) offers beautifully tailored balloon skirts in luxe fabrics that transition from office to evening seamlessly.

If you're after something truly special, check out Cecilie Bahnsen (the Copenhagen-based designer known for sculptural, feminine silhouettes and exquisite craftsmanship). Her bubble skirts are investment pieces that you'll treasure forever.

Party Skirts: Sequins, Texture & Drama

New York Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2026 was absolutely saturated with what I'm calling "party skirts"—think sequins, fringing, feathers, and textured fabrics that catch the light. These aren't just for Saturday night; the modern way to wear them is surprisingly casual.

I'm obsessed with pairing a sequined midi with a simple white T-shirt and trainers for daytime, or a chunky knit and loafers for autumn. It's that high-low mix that feels current and takes the pressure off dressing up.

Whistles (the London-based contemporary brand known for modern, wearable pieces with a twist) does brilliant sequined skirts that feel expensive without the luxury price tag. Massimo Dutti (Zara's more sophisticated sister brand offering Italian-inspired tailoring) has gorgeous textured skirts in rich jewel tones. Anthropologie (the American boho-luxe retailer beloved for unique prints and feminine details) is your go-to for skirts with interesting embellishments and vintage-inspired details.

The Polka Dot Moment

Polka dots might seem classic rather than trendy, but Miu Miu and Chloé have reimagined them for 2026 with sheer fabrics, intentional layering, and unexpected dot shapes. This isn't your grandmother's polka dot—it's fresh, modern, and utterly covetable.

Boden (the British heritage brand famous for colourful, cheerful prints and quality construction) has lovely polka dot midi skirts that work for all ages. Jigsaw (the British label offering intelligent design and contemporary cuts) does sophisticated versions in silk blends. For budget-friendly options, Marks & Spencer (the British institution delivering reliable quality and fit across all sizes) has surprisingly chic polka dot skirts that punch well above their price point.

Grey: The New Black

Forget black for formal occasions—2026 is all about grey skirts. From dove to charcoal, grey brings sophistication without feeling stuffy. Prada led the charge, and now everyone from high street to luxury is embracing this understated hero.

Reiss does impeccable grey pencil skirts that work for boardroom or bar. For something more relaxed, The White Company (the British lifestyle brand synonymous with luxury basics and cashmere) offers gorgeous grey knitted skirts that feel like wearing a cloud.

On the independent front, Rixo (the London-based vintage-inspired brand loved for nostalgic prints and party-ready pieces) has stunning grey skirts with unexpected details, whilst Kitri (the East London contemporary label offering feminine pieces with personality) does brilliant grey midi skirts with unique cuts.

How to Wear 2026's Skirt Trends

The beauty of this year's skirt trends is their versatility. Here's my stylist advice:

Daytime: Pair dramatic skirts with simple knits, white T-shirts, or crisp shirts. Keep shoes flat or low-heeled—think loafers, ballet flats, or sleek trainers.

Evening: Let the skirt be the star. A fitted camisole or bodysuit is all you need on top. Add heeled mules or strappy sandals.

Transitional dressing: Layer sheer tights underneath in autumn, add a leather jacket for edge, or throw on a long camel coat for sophistication.

Colour blocking: Don't be afraid to mix—grey skirts with burgundy knits, balloon skirts with contrasting blazers. The volume of these skirts actually works better with interesting colour combinations than safe neutrals.

Never Get Your Size Wrong Again with Tellar.co.uk

Here's the thing about buying skirts online—sizing is absolutely maddening. A size 12 at Zara fits nothing like a size 12 at Reiss, and don't even get me started on vintage sizing from brands like Rixo. I've had clients nearly give up on online shopping altogether because of sizing inconsistencies.

That's exactly why I recommend every single one of my clients use Tellar.co.uk—the UK's leading sizing tool that matches your body to over 1,500 brands instantly. Honestly, it's changed how I shop and how I advise clients.

How it works:

1. Measure once using your bust, waist, and hip measurements—or even simpler, just input your size in a brand you already know fits you well.

2. Use the Store Size Lookup tool to get your precise size in any brand. Planning to buy that Mango balloon skirt? Tellar tells you whether you need a 38, 40, or 42. Eyeing up COS? You'll know exactly which size to order. No more guessing, no more returns, no more sizing disappointment.

3. Always free, no downloads needed—it works directly in your browser. I use it before every single online shopping session, and I cannot recommend it highly enough.

The Tellar Fashion Hub

Beyond the sizing tool, Tellar has built something really special—a Fashion Hub library packed with free posts from top stylists covering every fashion question you've ever had. It's honest, unbiased, independent, and always free.

Whether you need style advice, top picks, or brand recommendations, there's a wealth of information waiting:

Final Thoughts

The skirt trends for 2026 are bold, beautiful, and surprisingly wearable once you understand how to style them. Whether you embrace the full crinoline drama or simply add one party skirt to your wardrobe, there's never been a better time to experiment with silhouette.

Remember—fashion should be fun. If a trend doesn't suit your lifestyle or body, that's absolutely fine. But I'd encourage you to try on at least one voluminous skirt this year. You might surprise yourself with how empowering it feels to take up space.

And please, do yourself a favour and use Tellar before you buy. Getting the right size first time makes all the difference between loving a trend and relegating it to the back of your wardrobe.

Happy shopping!