It’s not quite summer but we had our first warm spring evening and I am feeling blissful! And, so excited for the warm weather days and nights ahead! This first warm evening happened to be on my birthday celebration. An array of flowers and trees waiting to be planted, made our patio feel extra lush! With the grill going and the featured drink, the Paloma, being mixed up, curtesy of my millennial cousin Abrielle, the evening could not have been better! I cannot believe I’m 51!
With so much to do, see and be in the next 49 years (I’m an optimist), I have little time to fuss as to what I’m wearing. Of course I want to look the best I can. Once in a while during the years ahead, there will be times to reassess fits and tweak some styles. But for now, and what I see in the future, I’m bonded to the midi skirt. Everyone can rock a midi. Here is how:
Legal Lengths
Pay attention to the length. Some midis are not midis, lol. Too short or too long ruins the vibe. With varying midi lengths available, there’s a perfect length for you! A midi length of 29-31 inches is my perfect. I can also feel great in a midi that is 34 inches, IF, it is high waisted. If you have shorter legs, a midi may look frumpy. No worries! Take it to a seamstress! I have two midis I just love and realized they didn’t look quite spectacular. They went from a 35 inch length to 31 inch length (green floral skirt below), and I’m wearing them all the time!
Volumize It
I usually wear straight midis, some with a bit of flare. A midi with volume needs balance. For me it is more challenging to find a good fit with this style. The key is to try on many if possible. A seamless flow is the end goal. An elastic free flat waistband, or a wide elastic waistband, works best for me. Pair a full skirt with a tucked in cami or tank, and layer with a shorter body skimming cardi for a seamless flow.
Balancing the Midi
Balance makes it or breaks it for the Midi. For my body, it’s a must that my top skims the top part of my hips. If I’m paring a midi with a structured, form fitting top that has a turtleneck or higher collar, then it can be a bit longer. And again, it has to do with balance. Pair a voluminous midi with a more form fitting top, and accentuate your waist if wearing a fuller top. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed if your midi is not balanced.
Footwear
Options can be endless. If you figured out the perfect length, then almost any shoe can pair. This is the best part of a midi. Wear it with a heal to work, a sandal for dinner and the white tennis shoe for errands, touring or travelling.
To Zip or not to Zip
My midis have to have a side or back zipper. So many midi skirts have elastic waistbands. I cannot wear many midis with elastic waistbands, which limits choices. A wider elastic waistband fits better, and structure always fares well with a mature body. Trying a variety of styles is a must to find what works for you. NEVER feel bad if some styles fit funky. A tiny or flimsy elastic waistband, which lacks support, can cut into a mature body, even if you’re thin and in shape, and make you feel out of shape.
I’ve been wearing the same skirts over and over, and it’s never boring as they’re so easy to style with different shoes, tops, etc… Knowing life is easier when I throw on a skirt for work, play and everything else, I needed to invest in a few more. Not wanting to spend a lot, I checked out Poshmark. I’ve had luck finding some amazing pieces on Posh. It definitely helps when you know the brands and the sizing when looking. I always message the sellers to inquire about the specific measurements. I’m sure it’s annoying to some, but with no returns, I want to make a purchase in complete confidence. I’ve added some Reformation midis to my wardrobe. This is the best as I’m saving money and living sustainably!