How to Wear a Short Skirt Without Looking Overexposed: 13 Steps (2024)

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parts

1Choosing a Short Skirt

2Pairing Other Clothing with a Short Skirt

3Moving in a Short Skirt

Other Sections

Tips and Warnings

Related Articles

References

Article Summary

Co-authored byTannya Bernadette

Last Updated: June 29, 2021

Short skirts can be cute, fashionable, versatile, and fun to wear. But how do you avoid feeling uncomfortable, overexposed, or inappropriate when baring that much skin? Learn how to dress in a short skirt and look and feel good in the situation you’re dressing for.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Choosing a Short Skirt

  1. 1

    Pick a flared or a-line skirt for comfort. Try a short skirt that isn’t fitted and flares out from your body. This will prevent the discomfort and exposure of a tight skirt that tends to ride up the legs.

    • While standing, most short skirts tend to have a hemline a few centimeters above the mid thigh level.
    • Try a skater style skirt, a pleated skirt, or a button-down skirt in denim, velvet, or corduroy for some on-trend fashions that aren’t so tight and uncomfortable.
    • Note that flowy, loose short skirts can easily blow up when a breeze comes through! You might favor a thicker denim, wool, or corduroy material for a windy day outside.
  2. 2

    Choose a skirt that sits at the natural waist. Get a skirt with a waistband that’s meant to sit at your natural waist, which is the narrowest part of your torso. While it still falls at a normal length for a short skirt, you can feel a little more covered and secure with fabric covering your midsection.

    • Look for an elastic waistband for extra comfort, good fit, and better ability to move around.
    • Flared styles that rest at the natural waist can help elongate the body and accentuate the waist on short or curvy bodies.[1]

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  3. 3

    Try a high-low skirt. Consider the high-low skirt as a good hybrid of a short skirt and a skirt with more coverage. Find one of these skirts, which can be quite short in the front but longer in the back, to avoid exposure when you bend over or move around.

    • Pair this style easily with dressy or casual tops and shoes, and use it as an easy transition from cooler to warmer weather.[2]
    • You can also try a skirt that is asymmetrical from side to side, so one leg is exposed more than the other.
  4. 4

    Go for a little extra length in a fitted skirt. If you choose a fitted body con skirt in a stretchy material, look for one that is slightly longer in length. Because it hugs your body, it will still feel short, but a little extra length accommodates for any riding up the material will do.

    • Also look for fitted skirts that just skim the outline of your legs rather than hugging them tightly, as this will prevent it from riding up and give you a break from pulling it down all the time.
    • Try a denim skirt for a fabric that won’t ride up, but note that it likely won’t be as stretchy and comfortable as a fitted knit skirt.
  5. 5

    Consider a skort. Try a skirt with built-in shorts underneath for a comfortable style with no fear of exposing yourself when you move around or the wind comes up.

    • Note that “skort” is the name that was originally used for a garment that had a skirt flap in the front but with shorts showing in the back, while a “scooter” had skirt panels covering shorts entirely. In modern fashion, the latter style is favored but the names are used interchangeably.
    • Look out for a style that has skirt panels that fall lower than the hidden shorts so they don’t peek out accidentally.
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Part 2

Part 2 of 3:

Pairing Other Clothing with a Short Skirt

  1. 1

    Wear loose shirts or sweaters. Pair a short skirt with tops that cover more skin in loose, comfortable fabric. You can pull on some comfy sweaters for fall and winter, or keep the material light and thin for warmer weather while still feeling a little more covered up.

    • If you feel a little uncomfortable with how much skin you’re showing with a short skirt, look for tops with higher necklines and sleeves to cover up more skin on top.
    • Pick longer, drapey styles in a top to provide contrast from a structured or fitted skirt. Wear more structured tops that fall right at the waistline to contrast a looser a-line or flowing skirt.
    • Try wearing a short skirt with a fitted tank and then donning a long, sheer top that covers the tank and skirt completely for a fun and unique look that is totally covered up while still showing off the skirt underneath.[3]
  2. 2

    Layer over the skirt. Add sweaters, cardigans, jackets, and wraps to your outfit so that they can fall over your skirt. This will help break up the short line of the skirt and allow you to feel more covered and secure.

    • Try wearing a long coat or cardigan over a short skirt. Keep it unfastened in the front so you can still show off your skirt and bare legs while being covered in the back.[4]
  3. 3

    Wear tights or leggings underneath. Pull on a pair of tights underneath a short skirt to cover up your legs a little more for warmth or modesty. Wear a thicker legging for more coverage or for a colder climate.

    • Try a neutral color like black, white, or a shade that matches your skin tone for tights that go well with any outfit. Or, bring a pop of color to a more muted outfit with bright colored or patterned tights.
    • You can experiment with the opacity of tights, too. If you’d still like to show some skin, opt for a sheer variety. If you’d like to cover up more, go for opaque ones.
    • Textured tights, like fishnet, lace, or ribbed can help keep a form-fitting skirt from riding up.
  4. 4

    Hide spandex underneath. Consider wearing small spandex shorts meant for sports or biking underneath any short skirt you wear. They’ll make you feel a little more secure and prepared for a surprise breeze or other revealing accident.

    • Make sure spandex shorts are short enough that they won’t show underneath your skirt intentionally.
    • Get spandex shorts in a neutral color like black, or even match them to the color of your skirt if possible.
  5. 5

    Wear flat, comfortable shoes. Wear a short skirt with flats, sneakers, booties, or tall boots rather than high heels. Heels accentuate the length of the leg, which can make you feel like you’re showing even more skin than you are, not to mention that they can be uncomfortable and add to a feeling of vulnerability and exposure.

    • Casual sneakers and flats help downplay the short length of a skirt. Add other casual pieces of clothing to your skirt outfit to achieve a similar effect.[5]
    • Try a taller leather riding boot, cowboy boot, or even a thigh-high boot to cover up more skin while still showing off your short skirt.
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Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Moving in a Short Skirt

  1. 1

    Walk on even surfaces. Try to walk carefully and on even surfaces when wearing a short skirt. Avoid the skirt riding up or moving around too much by taking smaller steps.

    • Avoid wearing high heels, as these will only make it harder to walk when you have to manage both a short skirt and the risk of tripping or falling on uneven surfaces.
    • Remember the weather and check for a windy day before you don a flowing skirt to walk around outside in. For a day you know you’ll spend walking outdoors, you might want to wear a more structured skirt that skims the body with a heavy material that will stay put.
    • Try not to keep tugging at your skirt, even if it may feel too short. It will only draw unnecessary attention. Try to hold yourself confidently while wearing them.
    • If you are a school student, try to avoid all physical activities such as running or jumping.
  2. 2

    Bend at the knees when bending over. If you have to bend down or move to sit down, make sure to bend from your knees, keeping the hemline of your skirt level rather than making the back come up with your forward movement.

    • Also try holding the back of your skirt close to your body before you bend over. This is especially useful before sitting down, as it keeps the skirt down and flat rather than hiked up or rumpled underneath you.
  3. 3

    Keep your knees together while sitting. Press your legs and especially your knees together whenever you’re sitting in a skirt to avoid exposing yourself.

    • Try crossing your legs or tucking one ankle behind the other to help keep legs closed comfortably when sitting in a chair.
    • If you have to sit on the floor, sit on your shins with your legs folded straight under you.
    • While sitting in a short skirt, almost the entirety of your thighs will be exposed and this will be even more obvious when you're wearing a tight miniskirt. As a countermeasure, you can place a purse, jacket, or other clothing item or accessory over your lap when sitting to help avoid the risk of others seeing up your skirt.[6]
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question

    What tops go with short skirts?

    How to Wear a Short Skirt Without Looking Overexposed: 13 Steps (14)

    Tannya Bernadette
    Professional Stylist

    Tannya Bernadette is the Founder of The Closet Edit, a Seattle-based personal styling service. She has been in the fashion industry for over 10 years and has been recognized as Ann Taylor’s LOFT brand ambassador and Seattle Southside’s official Rockstar Stylist. Tannya received her BA in Fashion Marketing and Business from The Art Institutes.

    How to Wear a Short Skirt Without Looking Overexposed: 13 Steps (15)

    Professional Stylist

    Expert Answer

    Pair a short skirt with a long-sleeve or quarter-sleeve top. By showing less skin on your upper body, it'll balance out the shortness of the skirt!

    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    As a small thank you, we’d like to offer you a $30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full price—wine, food delivery, clothing and more. Enjoy!Claim Your GiftIf wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission.Support wikiHow

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  • Question

    What if you don't want to impress someone and just want to look cute, not sexy?

    How to Wear a Short Skirt Without Looking Overexposed: 13 Steps (16)

    Community Answer

    Check out at 1960s fashion - miniskirts can look really cute with long socks and boots.

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  • Question

    Is this feminist friendly or are you saying I shouldn't wear a short skirt?

    How to Wear a Short Skirt Without Looking Overexposed: 13 Steps (17)

    Shelbysays

    Community Answer

    Short skirts are totally feminist friendly. Dress how you want and don't listen to people who try to force you to dress how they want you to.

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      Tips

      • Always wear what YOU feel comfortable and beautiful in. Don’t change your style for anyone or for what you think is popular.

        Thanks

        Helpful12Not Helpful0

      • Don’t let the sexist standard that pressures women to be modest allow you to think that you should cover up and show less skin. You may need to cover up more for a dress code or uniform, if you’re uncomfortable, or if it’s impractical to wear a short skirt, but otherwise you should always feel free to show off your legs and body however you please. It’s your body, so it’s your choice!

        Thanks

        Helpful20Not Helpful3

      How to Wear a Short Skirt Without Looking Overexposed: 13 Steps (18)

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      About This Article

      How to Wear a Short Skirt Without Looking Overexposed: 13 Steps (30)

      Co-authored by:

      Professional Stylist

      This article was co-authored by Tannya Bernadette. Tannya Bernadette is the Founder of The Closet Edit, a Seattle-based personal styling service. She has been in the fashion industry for over 10 years and has been recognized as Ann Taylor’s LOFT brand ambassador and Seattle Southside’s official Rockstar Stylist. Tannya received her BA in Fashion Marketing and Business from The Art Institutes. This article has been viewed 353,396 times.

      53 votes - 85%

      Co-authors: 17

      Updated: June 29, 2021

      Views:353,396

      Categories: Dresses and Skirts

      Article SummaryX

      If you want to wear a short skirt but don’t want to feel overexposed, pair your skirt with more modest layers. For example, try wearing tights or leggings underneath the skirt, which will make you warmer and give you more coverage. If you’re worried about your skirt blowing up, you can also wear spandex shorts underneath for extra security. For a bare leg look, balance out the short skirt with a sweater or long sleeve shirt on top. You can also wear a long cardigan or coat, which will cover up the back area of your skirt. To learn how to walk in a short skirt, read on!

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      • How to Wear a Short Skirt Without Looking Overexposed: 13 Steps (31)

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        May 10, 2021

        "I was worried about looking too sexual but after some of these tips, I feel much better."

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      How to Wear a Short Skirt Without Looking Overexposed: 13 Steps (32)

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      How to Wear a Short Skirt Without Looking Overexposed: 13 Steps (2024)

      FAQs

      How do you wear a short skirt without looking overexposed? ›

      Add sweaters, cardigans, jackets, and wraps to your outfit so that they can fall over your skirt. This will help break up the short line of the skirt and allow you to feel more covered and secure. Try wearing a long coat or cardigan over a short skirt.

      How do you wear a short skirt over 50? ›

      Wear Flat Shoes or Boots

      Flat or low heel shoes or boots help make your short dress look less short. This works even better when your footwear and tights are the same color. I've paired low-heel black boots with black tights. There is no color break to draw attention to my legs or my short hemline.

      How to look slim in school skirt? ›

      Choose clothes that are the right size.
      1. Tuck in your shirt to make it less baggy.
      2. Wear a belt around your waist to give your uniform more shape.
      3. Tie the bottom of your shirt in a knot to make it fit better.
      4. Alter your clothes to make them slightly larger or smaller.

      How do you make a short dress less revealing? ›

      How To Make a Short Dress More Modest
      1. Add a long cardigan to your outfit. Adding a long cardigan or duster to your outfit really helps with balancing out the look. ...
      2. Layer with Leggings or Tights. ...
      3. Pair with Knee or Thigh Length Boots. ...
      4. If It Makes Sense For Your Outfit Include A Hat. ...
      5. Opt For Looser Silhouettes.
      Oct 2, 2022

      How much is too short for a skirt? ›

      Whether your tall or short, flat-chested or not, a good rule of thumb for everyone is that the dress or skirt should not be more than two inches above the knee. It seems to always work!

      Am I too old to wear a short skirt? ›

      It's put a smile on my – much older – face. But mini skirts don't have to live in the past. You CAN wear them at any age.

      Where should skirt hit short person? ›

      Miniskirts look the most flattering on petite women. They end at mid-thigh above your knee and make your legs appear longer. What length skirt is the best for short legs? Skirts that end three to four inches above the knee look the best on short legs.

      What kind of top to wear with short skirt? ›

      Go Modest On Top For Contrast

      If you're feeling a bit timid about showing so much skin, going modest on top can be a good way to balance out the look — and a Peter Pan collar adds a touch of sweetness. A button-up shirt layered with a vest is a great way to contrast a miniskirt on bottom.

      Can a 65 year old wear a mini skirt? ›

      The catwalks for spring/summer have unleashed a mini revival this year. And British stylist Liz Jones says you can still wear a mini skirt even in your 60s.

      What length of skirt is most flattering? ›

      In terms of the most flattering skirt for your shape, a general rule of thumb is that it should end at the proportionately smallest part of your legs. This is often below the knee or above the ankle. But fashion rules are also meant to be broken and you should wear what makes you feel comfortable and feeling your best.

      Should a 60 year old woman wear a mini skirt? ›

      Wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and stylish. If one has great legs and a fit body, there should be no problem wearing minidresses and shorts regardless of any age. I think women know instinctively what feels right and comfortable as they mature, without having to consider norms of society.

      How do you hide belly fat in a skirt? ›

      Go with an A-line cut, flowy fabrics, ruffles, or tops that do not cling to your tummy. Wearing darker clothing provides a slimming effect. Wear high-waisted dresses to smooth out the midsection. Wear a skirt and flowy clothes that are wider than your waistline at the bottom.

      How can I look cute in a skirt? ›

      Here are some tips to consider when styling a skirt:
      1. Add a belt. A stylish belt can breathe life into an otherwise plain ensemble. ...
      2. Balance your outfit. Keep your outfit proportions in mind as you style your skirt. ...
      3. Bring a jacket. ...
      4. Make a statement. ...
      5. Pick the right shoes. ...
      6. Wear socks with short skirts. ...
      7. Wear tights.
      Jan 20, 2022

      How can I look attractive in school? ›

      Try wearing makeup if it suits you.
      1. Use a light to medium coverage. Foundation adds a flawless base for your skin and makes your skin look a lot more even. ...
      2. Try using a bronzer and a blush. ...
      3. Use a loose powder to set your foundation in the morning and a pressed one for touchups.

      What is the mini skirt rule? ›

      You may be familiar with the analogy about good conversations and mini-skirts: both should be short enough to grab attention but long enough to cover the subject. That's an easy way to remember one of the golden rules of good conversations: Be brief but thorough.

      What are really short mini skirts called? ›

      A micro-miniskirt or microskirt is a miniskirt with its hemline at the upper thigh, at or just below crotch or underwear level.

      Is it OK to wear leggings under a dress? ›

      No matter what, wearing leggings under a dress is a casual look and should not be applied to a non-casual event. Finally, use care when mixing colors and patterns. Although it is a casual look, it's still best to save the livelier patterns for the dress or skirt and keep the leggings simple.

      What do you wear under a dress that is too revealing? ›

      High-waisted briefs are the stylist's go-to, as the undergarment ensures both your stomach and bottom areas are completely covered.

      How much cleavage is too much? ›

      The breasts should have a natural shape, and they should not be touching." As a general rule, the amount of cleavage that should be visible is 1 or 2 inches — 3 inches at the most. When the breasts are pushed up into unnatural shapes and more than 3 inches are exposed, it's called Hard Cleavage.

      How to dress to look less fat? ›

      1. Buy new underwear. ...
      2. Choose a V-neck. ...
      3. Wear one color head to toe. ...
      4. Use bodysuits and swing tanks as smoothers. ...
      5. Stick to no-waist dresses for belly camouflage. ...
      6. Add some height. ...
      7. Only put volume where you need it most. ...
      8. Pair your plain black pants with a statement top.
      Aug 27, 2020

      What is the fingertip rule for skirts? ›

      This rule states that a student should be able to stand straight, arms by their side, and not have their fingertips reach past their shorts. This, on many, measures to about a couple inches above the knee. This rule is emplaced for "modesty" purposes.

      Can a 50 year old woman wear a short skirt? ›

      You are never too old to wear a skirt. You can wear it as long as you feel comfortable in it. For a 100% comfort level, you have to find a suitable length for you. Skirts come in various lengths from full-length, mid-length, and short skirts.

      What is the shortest skirt length? ›

      The first thing you'll want to understand is what different skirt lengths there are. Mini or micro skirt length typically sits mid-thigh, midi skirt length hits over or below the knee, and maxi skirt length will go to your ankles or to the floor.

      What length dress should a 50 year old wear? ›

      Some stylists suggest that the length around the knee (or two inches above/below) is “universally flattering” on the vast majority of women, but in any case in my opinion it is necessary to evaluate well, better if in front of a mirror and with a critical eye.

      At what age did girls start wearing long skirts? ›

      Infant skirts lengthened to mid-calf by the age of ten, and by around the age of 16, girls were required to wear full-length skirts that extended to their ankles, which mimicked the styles worn by their mothers (Price, 2013, para.

      Are mini skirts in style 2023? ›

      While we will still wear low rise mini skirts in summer 2023, and Y2K mini skirts will be trendy for fall winter 2023, expect to see long denim column skirts and long cargo skirts everywhere in the foresight future.

      How do you dress nice but modest? ›

      Keep your neckline within 4 finger-widths of your collarbone, and conceal your back and shoulders. Wear tops and pants that aren't too tight or revealing, but aren't too large or saggy. Use accessories like bags, scarves, and shoes to glam up a modest outfit.

      How do you dress stylish but modest? ›

      One way to dress modestly is to choose clothing that covers your skin but is still comfortable and stylish. Another way to dress modestly is to choose clothing that is loose-fitting and doesn't hug your body too closely. Additionally, you can dress modestly by avoiding low-cut tops and short skirts.

      Can a seventy year old woman wear shorts? ›

      Many women over 50 shy away from shorts, but they are just as fashionable as any other piece of clothing. You can dress them up, or you can dress them down. Whatever rocks your boat! Just because your legs look older doesn't mean you can't show them off.

      How should a 60 year old female dress? ›

      5 Tips For Dressing in Your 60s
      1. Big patterns, bold colors. ...
      2. Breathable Fabrics Reign Supreme. ...
      3. Embrace the unexpected. ...
      4. Balance timeless with trends. ...
      5. Mix textures and metals. ...
      6. Eye-catching accessories. ...
      7. Denim that fits like a dream. ...
      8. Updated basics.

      What skirt is best for big tummy? ›

      High-waisted flared skirts are ideal for concealing the tummy and creating an hourglass shape all at once. These skirts are designed and structured to create a slimming shape for all body types. A high-waisted flared skirt will have a waistline that lays at the smallest part of your waist.

      Are mini skirts classy? ›

      Despite preconceptions, a mini skirt can be chic and classy. The key is to balance your pieces. Mini skirts and oversized blazers are a match made in heaven. Ditto to a mini skirt and a trench or a longline coat.

      What is the appropriate skirt length for over 50? ›

      Keep your skirt and dress lengths to the knee or slightly above. Flowy dresses look best if they are mid-calf length. Steer clear of cropped pants — they were an unflattering fashion fad for way too long. Don't show too much skin: too-short skirts and tops that are too low don't flatter anyone.

      Can a 60 year old woman wear shorts? ›

      Everyday - shopping, summer barbecues and more

      They are timeless, and perfect for women over sixty. Choose denim shorts that are just above the knee, and wear with a simple T-shirt, top or tunic for a laid-back look. Linen and linen-look shorts are also a good wardrobe staple for summer.

      At what point is a skirt too short? ›

      Obviously everything that we wear looks different on different bodies! We're all different and that's what makes us amazing. Whether your tall or short, flat-chested or not, a good rule of thumb for everyone is that the dress or skirt should not be more than two inches above the knee.

      How do you cover a too revealing dress? ›

      Wear a camisole, high-neck bra, or bandeau bra made from a nice material, like lace or silk, underneath your dress. If you choose a color and fabric that complements your dress, it should blend in seamlessly. Alternatively, buy a removable dress panel that will clip or snap onto your bra straps and cover your cleavage.

      What top to wear with a short skirt? ›

      Go Modest On Top For Contrast

      If you're feeling a bit timid about showing so much skin, going modest on top can be a good way to balance out the look — and a Peter Pan collar adds a touch of sweetness. A button-up shirt layered with a vest is a great way to contrast a miniskirt on bottom.

      What is the finger rule for skirts? ›

      This rule states that a student should be able to stand straight, arms by their side, and not have their fingertips reach past their shorts. This, on many, measures to about a couple inches above the knee. This rule is emplaced for "modesty" purposes.

      Can a 60 year old woman wear a mini skirt? ›

      The catwalks for spring/summer have unleashed a mini revival this year. And British stylist Liz Jones says you can still wear a mini skirt even in your 60s.

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