For those intent on keeping cool in the hot weather, a simple pair of shorts would seem the easy sartorial answer.
But what if the very thought brings you out in a wave of ‘but-my-legs!’ anxiety? Luckily, the summer skirt is having a moment – and there are a raft of chic, flattering styles to choose from on the high street.
Take your style cue from the stars first, though. From Lily James to The White Lotus actress Meghann Fahy, there’s a summer tribe for every one . . .
Katie’s sensual satin
The satin slip skirt is a wardrobe staple that will see you through season after season.
Katie Holmes recently wore a perfect asymmetric style by Christian Siriano, paired with a classic white top, boxy blazer and knee-high boots.
For summer, simply switch up your footwear with a heeled sandal and you’re ready to go from desk to dinner. While this Mint Velvet skirt (£89, right) is more bias-cut, it will hang effortlessly and flatter every figure.
The satin slip skirt is a wardrobe staple that will see you through season after season, as seen on Katie Holmes
Meghann Fahy’s bright bouclé
Heading to a smart summer event but stuck for style inspiration? Bouclé is an easy way to create a polished look. Meghann Fahy was spotted in May in a Carolina Herrera tweed pencil skirt, teamed with the label’s knit polo shirt for a smart/casual look. Self-Portrait has a similar pink bouclé midi skirt for £300.
With pearl detailing, there’s also a matching short-sleeved top for easy glamour. Or for a brilliant high street bargain, snap up this pink lookalike from Reserved for just £19.99.
Bouclé is an easy way to create a polished look, like Meghann Fahy in Carolina Herrera, says Amy Kester
£19.99, reserved. com
Lily James’s sleek suede
You may think suede is a no-go in warmer months, but it’s all about how you wear it. Lily James teamed hers with a silk sleeveless top and mustard accessories for a textured summer look. Rixo’s vintage-inspired midi skirt is cut in a subtle A-line silhouette for a comfortable fit. Wear with a ruffle blouse for boho chic or a classic white shirt for the office.
Lily James looked chic in a silk sleeveless top and mustard accessories. You can get the look in a similar Rixo skirt
Sequins and suede, £120, cos.com
Zoe Saldana’s bold block colour
If you’re going to wear colour, make it bold. Actress Zoe Saldana wore this eye-catching cherry red ensemble (below) in New York last month.
Her sleek Gia Studios pencil skirt looks effortlessly elegant – although I prefer this maxi style from Reformation (£188, right). The ‘sundried tomato’ hue is the perfect wearable colour and lightweight linen will keep you cool all day long
If you’re going to wear colour like Zoe Saldana last month, make it bold, says Amy Kester
Pammy’s boho broderie
When the sun beats down, there’s no better colour to turn to than white. Reflecting the sunlight to keep you cool, this versatile shade never goes out of style.
Pamela Anderson loves it so much, she routinely wears top-to-toe white. We love this A-line broderie midi skirt – and you can get the look for less with Karen Millen’s cotton alternative (£65).
Pamela Anderson routine wears top-to-toe white – and you can replicate the look in Karen Millen’s or H&M’s broderie skirts
