Ask Belle: Styling a Pleated or Peasant Skirt

Belle:

I purchased a skirt VERY similar to this one and I’m having trouble styling it.  I have tried a pretty peasant blouse tucked in (with small, pretty spring flowers) but I end up looking very matronly/Sound of Music. Any help?

L – O – V – E the blog!!

Thanks! Melinda

Wearing a full skirt well, esp. a full, maxi-length skirt, is all about proportion.  Adding a peasant blouse on top might seem like a good idea, but it adds to much volume and creates, as you said, a very matronly look.  If you’re going to wear a voluminous skirt, you need a sleek top (and vice versa).

Skirt: Alice + Olivia Shannon Maxi Skirt ($484)

Tops, from left: Embroidered Eyelet Tank ($65) //Lavi Silk Tank ($102) // Boatneck T-Shirt ($33) // Madewell Chambray Shirt ($70)

Tanks. I like the idea of pairing a racerback or halter style silk tank with a full skirt.  It’s the right combination of beachy and chic.  You could also wear a standard cotton tank and a low slung belt.

I also like the idea of adding a textured tank like this eyelet number from J.CREW.  If you need something a little less expensive try this textured lace tank.

Slim Tees.  This boatneck tee would look lovely with a fuller skirt.  I’d add a wide belt to pull the look together.  I would also consider adding a striped tee and a long necklace.

Button Up.  Adding a crisp white button up shirt or a chambray shirt to the outfit brings a bit of structure and classic sophistication to a breezy skirt.  I would add a statement necklace or roll the sleeve and add a wood bracelet.  This might also be a good opportunity to try the tied-in-front blouses that have come back into style this spring.

Looking for a pleated maxi that won’t break the bank?  Overstock has a pretty grey one.  Piperlime has a lovely peach number.  This mint one is also very chic.

Plus size? Kenneth Cole has a black one on sale.  Petite? I found this rich burgundy skirt made for smaller ladies.