Look, I need to tell you something I never thought I’d say: the low-rise skirt is back, and while it’s not my personal cup of tea, I’m actually not mad about it this time.
I know what you’re thinking. The same thing I thought when I first saw it creeping back onto the runways.
Not this again. We barely survived the first round: the visible thongs, the muffin tops, the collective body dysmorphia of an entire generation.
The early 2000s were, let’s be honest, a tough time for anyone who didn’t have Paris Hilton’s frame or her complete lack of self-consciousness.
But here’s the thing. This isn’t that.
This Time, It’s Actually… Sophisticated?
The low-rise skirt dominating fashion right now has little to do with the Y2K aesthetic we’re all still processing in therapy.
When I see what designers are showing for Spring/Summer 2026, I’m not reminded of The Simple Life or Britney’s backup dancers. I’m thinking clean lines, sculptural pieces, and a sense of actual polish.
At her September show, Tory Burch sent out low-slung, belted midi skirts styled with preppy knits and ladylike pumps.
Toga paired theirs with crisp shirting and architectural details. Even Burberry layered a hip-grazing crochet skirt over a shirt dress in a way that felt considered, not chaotic.
The vibe is less “going-out top” and more “I pay council tax and have my life together.”
And honestly? That changes everything.
How Did We Get Here?
You can trace the breadcrumbs back to Miuccia Prada’s Miu Miu Spring/Summer 2022 show, where that micro-mini with the raw hem broke the internet so thoroughly it got its own Instagram account.
Lyst later named Miu Miu the “hottest brand in the world” two years running, proving their knack for making us crave things we swore we’d never wear again.
Then the celebrities got involved. Zendaya wore a baby pink matching set while promoting Challengers.
Rihanna stepped out in an Alaïa number with a waistband so low it was practically conceptual. Julia Fox became the unofficial ambassador of low-rise everything, even posting a DIY tutorial showing followers how to slice the waistband off high-rise jeans to create her own version.
And Keke Palmer gave the look a red-carpet spin at the Nope premiere, proving it can still feel glamorous rather than gimmicky.
There’s also something bigger happening. We’re firmly in a sixties revival moment: short hemlines, youthful shapes, and unapologetic femininity.
After years of being cocooned in oversized everything, fashion is embracing the body again. The low-rise skirt is simply surfing that wave.
But Can Real People Actually Wear This?
Here’s where I was sceptical. And here’s where I was pleasantly surprised.
The key is to ignore how this trend worked in 2003. Do not, I repeat, do not, pair your low-rise skirt with a bra top and call it an outfit. (Unless you’re Rihanna. She can do what she likes.)
Instead, try this: a low-slung A-line skirt with a slouchy, slightly oversized knit. The proportions work.
You’re showing the dropped waistband, but you’re not serving full midriff. It feels modern without feeling like you’re trying to relive your youth.
If you prefer something shorter, fine, but wear a crop top that actually covers something.
Think Zendaya’s collared option: it’s technically cropped, but with long sleeves or a high neck, it reads as chic, not club-night throwback.
And if you’re still not convinced, there are longer versions. Low-rise doesn’t have to mean mini.
A slip skirt that sits on your hips, paired with a loose long-sleeved top, gives you the silhouette without the anxiety.
Making It Work for Everyday Life
For warmer weather, keep it simple. A low-rise mini in cotton or linen, paired with a fitted tee or a relaxed shirt.
Add chunky sandals or boots, nothing too delicate. The contrast between the feminine skirt and sturdier footwear keeps it grounded.
If you want to experiment without fully committing, try something from Reformation or a pleated style from H&M. You’re not hunting for the perfect piece; you’re testing whether this works for you.
For colder days, layering is your best friend. A longer low-waisted skirt in leather or suede with a chunky knit that overlaps the waistband slightly looks elevated and warm. Add a tailored coat and knee-high boots for balance.
Or lean into the business-casual version: a low-rise skirt, matching cropped blazer, and knee socks. It’s giving “I read The Financial Times but make it fashion,” and I’m not upset about it.
One trick that’s surprisingly effective is wearing a low-rise skirt over slim trousers or jeans.
It’s very early 2000s, yes, but adds warmth without bulk. Style it right, with a streamlined top and coat, and it looks intentional, not like you got dressed in a hurry.
The Verdict
I’m not saying you need to bin every high-waisted piece you own. (Please don’t. I’m still emotionally attached to mine.)
The low-rise skirt in its current iteration isn’t the enemy we remember. It’s grown up, gained a bit of self-awareness, and discovered good tailoring.
According to Who What Wear, this silhouette isn’t going anywhere soon. Designers are refining it for 2025 and beyond, moving towards drop-waist sophistication and away from nostalgia dressing. Whether you personally wear it or not, you’ll be seeing it everywhere.
Here’s my honest take: it’s not my style. I know high-rise pieces suit my proportions better, and that’s fine.
But when I see someone confidently pulling off a low-slung leather midi or a micro-mini with poise, I genuinely love it. Fashion doesn’t have to be universal to be valid.
The low-rise skirt has earned its place back in the conversation. Whether it earns a place in your wardrobe is entirely your choice, and both answers are completely fine.
That’s the real evolution here: understanding that what doesn’t work for you can still look brilliant on someone else.
