The fashion world’s obsession with denim is unwavering, but there’s been a swift return of long denim skirts in recent seasons, with midi and maxi styles seen all over the runways and our Instagram feeds.
First introduced in the 70s as an alternative to jeans, the popularity of denim skirts has been fluid ever since, but I'd consider them a capsule wardrobe piece. Most recently, longer lengths with split hems are the look du jour, although if you love a mini skirt you're in luck as they've also made a comeback.
- The denim wrap skirt: M&S Denim Asymmetric Midi Wrap Skirt, £40 / $78
- The flared denim skirt: H&M Flared Denim Skirt, £21 / $39
- The front-split denim skirt: Rails Manhattan Skirt, £218 / $218
- The panelled denim skirt: Boden Panelled Detail Denim Skirt, £95 / $152
- The fitted denim skirt: Mango Denim Midi Skirt, £35 / $69
- The trending denim skirt: Aligne Liza Denim Maxi Skirt, £115 / $175
- The denim mini skirt: & Other Stories Pleated Denim Mini Skirt, £87 / $129
How to style a denim skirt
Like your favourite pair of jeans, a denim skirt is so versatile. Go for true noughties nostalgia and wear a maxi with ballet flats, a classic tee, and a leather jacket, or for timeless styling complete the look with a white blouse and slingback heels. If you really want to emulate the street style set, add a twist to the Canadian tux and wear a denim skirt with a matching shirt or jacket like Olivia Palermo (above).
Alexandra Lapp went for preppy, high-low fashion for the transitional seasons, styling her Zara denim skirt with a printed Gucci blazer, Saint Laurent's Le 37 bag and Christian Louboutin So Kate heels.
Meanhile, Elsa Hosk stepped out in a vintage denim maxi skirt by Saint Laurent. Featuring a panelled patchwork design, high waist and A-line shape, she emulated 70s style with her oversized sunglasses and beige bomber jacket.
Emilie Joseph channelled cottagecore with her knee-high boots and gingham top, finished with a transitional trench, while Ashley Roberts proves double denim can look chic. I'd also love this look with a pair of heeled mules.
© GC ImagesHow I chose the best denim skirts
- Style: There are so many ways to wear a denim skirt right now. I've included everything from fitted midi-length pieces to floor-sweeping hems, flared silhouettes and pleated minis.
- Price: I've included mostly affordable high street buys, but have also added a few more premium styles, with options ranging from £21 at H&M to £218 at Rails.
- Inclusivity: I looked for denim skirts in a wide range of sizes, from UK 4-22 and XXS-4XL.
The best denim skirts for spring 2026
The denim wrap skirt: M&S Denim Asymmetric Midi Skirt
Editor's Note:
Marks & Spencer's new season denim midi skirt has a high waist and a cool asymmetric cut, which creates a flattering wrap design. Plus is has the coveted split hem.
The flared denim skirt: H&M Flared Denim Skirt
Editor's Note:
If you're looking for a denim skirt with a flared silhouette, this H&M midi is made from 100% cotton and it's a steal at £21. It features a mid-rise waist, a curved seam at the hips, and a back zip fastening.
The front-split denim skirt: Rails Manhattan skirt
Editor's Note:
For the classic cut that's so popular with the street style set, this Rails denim skirt falls to a maxi length with a front split hem. It comes in a vintage style sun-faded wash with a mid-rise waist, so size up if you prefer to wear it higher.
The panelled denim skirt: Boden Panelled Detail Denim Skirt
Editor's Note:
This popular Boden denim skirt features a high-waisted cut with a relaxed silhouette, and a midi length that works just as well with heeled boots as it does with ballet flats.
The fitted denim skirt: Mango Denim Midi Skirt
Editor's Note:
For a shorter style, this Mango denim skirt is so chic. Falling just above the knee, it features a straight design and a back slit for easy movement. I love it styled with mules and the matching jacket.
The trending denim skirt: Aligne Liza Denim Maxi Skirt
Editor's Note:
I love everything in Aligne's coveted denim collection, and I predict this new season maxi skirt will sell out fast. The high-rise style has a panelled waist and falls to soft pleating.
The denim mini skirt: & Other Stories Pleated Denim Mini Skirt
Editor's Note:
If you're shopping for a denim mini skirt, this one from & Other Stories features cool box pleats and contrasting topstitched seams. It pairs so well with a matching denim jacket and ballet flats or loafers.
