What’s a straight skirt?

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A straight skirt is a simple rectangle of fabric with an elasticated waistband, ideal for beginner sewers. They can be worn with detailed tops and come in various styles, including pencil and column. Different details can be added, such as slash pockets or a back pleat. Straight skirts suit hourglass and pear-shaped figures but can overemphasize narrowness on slim figures. They look best with high-heeled shoes and come in various fabrics for all occasions.

A straight skirt in its simplest form is a rectangle of fabric, either long or short, with an elasticated waistband. This is the easiest type of skirt to sew and is an ideal sewing project for beginners. The more complex skirts have a fitted waistband with a zipper closure, as well as side darts to shape the skirt to the body. Full, ruffled, pleated, and layered skirts are the opposite in style of the straight skirt.

Since straight skirt styles are simple, they can be worn with detailed tops without creating an over-the-top look for an outfit. Textured or wired sweaters and multicolored tops can be paired with these skirts. Blouses with ruffles or embroidery are other ideal blouses for the smooth texture of skirts with straight lines. Other names for straight skirt styles are pencil and column. An A-line skirt is a flared version of the straight look.

Slash pockets or a back pleat are subtle details that can add interest to a skirt. The back crease or kick helps ease movement. The slash pockets are elegant slits that match the seam and shape of the skirt. A fitted waistband and zipper create a more fitted look for a skirt styled in a straight, elasticated waist. This type of tailored skirt is popular in women’s suits and office suits.

The straight, pencil or column skirt suits all types of figures, except those that are very full or extremely thin. These skirts can overemphasize the narrowness and lack of curves on slim figures. Ruffles, layers, pleats, or fullness tend to be best skirt features for slim body types. For fuller figures, a skirt-straight shape can create a heavy, unbalanced appearance. An A-line skirt, which is basically a straight skirt that flares gently downward, tends to be much more flattering on rounder figures.

Conversely, hourglass body types are flattered by the extreme line of the skirt. Pear-shaped figures where the top is narrower than the hips tend to look more balanced in straight-style skirts. Smooth, flowing fabric cut straight can be especially flattering on pear-shaped bodies. Shorter women may appear taller in a straight, above-the-knee skirt, especially one with accents or vertical stripes.

Straight skirts tend to look best when worn with high-heeled shoes and boots rather than chunky or flat-soled footwear. Varying the types of fabrics in the skirts makes them ideal for all occasions. For example, a long silk skirt with straight lines can be ultra-chic for evening, while a straight denim skirt is a casual classic.




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