Jess Cartner-Morley Forecasts a Skirt Renaissance for 2026
Fashion commentator Jess Cartner-Morley has declared that 2026 is set to be the year when skirts regain their main character energy in wardrobes across the globe. After years of playing a supporting role to trends like pleated trousers and experimental jeans, skirts are poised to take centre stage once more, driven by evolving hemlines and a shift towards versatile separates.
The Rise of Shorter Hemlines and Skirt Dominance
Cartner-Morley notes that hemlines are getting shorter again, making skirts more attention-grabbing and a focal point of modern style. This trend, observed prominently in 2025, spans generations, with Generation Z and Alpha embracing very short skirts, while adult women also showcased shorter styles during the pre-Christmas party season. Importantly, this mini renaissance emphasises skirts over dresses, as a short skirt is perceived as cooler and more about personal style rather than body focus.
The Fashion Museum Bath's selection of Miu Miu's micro-kilt as the dress of the year for 2022 initially seemed confusing but now appears prescient. It underscores how separates, including skirts, have become stars in contemporary wardrobes. Even high-profile figures like the Princess of Wales have shifted from tailored dresses to tailored suits, highlighting this broader move towards mix-and-match pieces.
Versatility and Sustainability in Skirt Choices
Cartner-Morley suggests that the shift from dresses to separates may be partly driven by a growing focus on sustainable fashion. As consumers aim to shop less and restyle existing items, skirts offer enhanced layering opportunities compared to one-and-done dresses. This aligns with a fast-moving fashion conversation where jean silhouettes and skirt styles are hot topics, rivalling discussions on mortgage rates in their relevance.
The comeback isn't limited to miniskirts. Knee-length pencil skirts are also poised for a resurgence, offering a sophisticated alternative. Cartner-Morley highlights her favourite White Company satin skirt with a lace band, recommending it for winter wear with polo neck sweaters, wool tights, and flat boots, showcasing how skirts can adapt to various seasons and occasions.
Practical Tips for Embracing Skirt Trends
For those hesitant about miniskirts due to overly short cuts from many brands, Cartner-Morley offers practical advice. She points to Whistles as a source of cool short-but-not-tiny skirts, with A-line leather and wool options measuring 44cm from waist to hem, compared to Zara's shorter ranges of 33-39cm. Her top tip is a flippy-hem silhouette that hugs the hips and kicks out at the thighs, such as Reiss's £88 skirt or Next's similar Boucle Flippy Mini Skirt at £38.
Ultimately, what gives a skirt its main character energy is personal choice—whether it's a fun hemline, a flippy shape, or luxurious materials like buttery leather. After years on the sidelines, skirts are setting the agenda again, proving that in 2026, the lady in the skirt might just be the one wearing the trousers in fashion terms.
