Midi length skirts and dresses are the newest trend on the style horizon for fall 2011. If you remember these numbers from the ‘70’s and ‘80’s, you may be thinking “Yikes, really?” If you don’t remember them at all, you may be ready to wear this new style with abandon. No matter which group you fall into, I encourage you to read on. Midi skirts can go terribly wrong! It’s easy to veer into “frump territory.” And it’s especially for petite women  to completely destroy the long leg line you’ve worked so hard to achieve.

Somewhat similar to mini skirts, there is a range of lengths for the midi, from barely below the knee to just above the ankle. Personally, I prefer midis on the shorter side; however, experimenting to find your perfect length skirt is advisable.

Here are just a few tips to help you make the most of this new length:

• “Short over long,” is a rule you want to follow. In other words, since your skirt is long, be sure to pair it with a short jacket or tucked in blouse. This allows you an uninterrupted line from waist to hem. Tall gals can bend this rule a bit. (See bottom photo.)
• Add a heel! While short skirts look adorable with flats, calf length skirts look elegant with a heel.
• If you’ve never worn midis before, have fun channeling the ‘70’s vibe.
• If you had countless midis in your closet back in the day, consider creating a ladylike look perhaps with a bit of retro inspiration.  
• I’m all for wearing what is in your closet, but please be cautious if you want to repurpose your midi skirts from days of yore. Question whether or not the style and fabric look modern enough to prevent you from looking “stuck in the ‘80’s”
• You’re smart to pair this “new” length with up-to-the-minute accessories for a fresh look.

Midi skirts have been on the runway since last fall; however, now they’re in the stores. If you’re looking for a way to update your look in this coming season, I encourage you to do so. It’s not an outrageous look, and who knows? Perhaps you’ll become an Opinion Leader!

So now to you…do you like this “new length?” Or will you skip it opting for shorter skirts?