Advertisement

6 style rules for wearing a mini skirt: inspired by Elsa Hosk and Emily Ratajkowski

The mini skirt has come a long way since it was first popularised on the streets of London in the Swinging Sixties, and yet, it feels as though the It-girls of the day knew perfectly how to style this potentially tricky piece.

MORE: Crop tops: how to ace the trend and look unbelievably chic

Bare legs, go-go boots, lashings of mascara and a bouffant 'do were all the rage back then, but if you're looking to take the mini for a spin in 2022, it's worth seeking inspiration from some of our favourite modern day fashion icons.

What should you wear under a mini skirt?

To ensure that a major wardrobe malfunction remains firmly off the agenda, suitable undergarments are a must. Skip wearing anything too skimpy when you're rocking a mini – opt for something pretty and yet dignified, just in case a gust of wind does saunter past, catching you off-guard.

READ: Corset outfits: nail the trend with these 7 seriously stylish pieces

RELATED: The tank top dress trend is going nowhere – shop our favourite pieces now

If you'd prefer to not tempt fate, there's something unmistakably sexy about wearing sheer black tights under a mini skirt – though be warned, don't bother counting on them for extra warmth during the winter. Otherwise, there are some beautiful, patterned designs out there currently – monogrammed Gucci or polka dots by Falke are both equally stylish shouts. 

Hello! Fashion shares our six style rules for wearing a mini skirt – as inspired by models Elsa Hosk and Emily Ratajkowski:

A mini is for life, not just for summer

 

Mini-Skirt-Elsa-Hosk-White
Mini-Skirt-Elsa-Hosk-White

It ought to go without saying that a mini can be super stylish all year round – but it has to be said, Elsa Hosk's beachside bathing suit co-ord is a really strong look. Wear a relaxed-fit white number with a matching bandeau bikini top to recreate the model's outfit.

 

acne-skirt
acne-skirt

Acne Studios layered cotton-jersey mini skirt, £530, Net-A-Porter

SHOP NOW

Experiment with volume

Mini-Skirt-Elsa-Hosk-Volume
Mini-Skirt-Elsa-Hosk-Volume

The Swedish model is no stranger to volume experimentation – we love how the width of the puffy sleeves balances against the slightly rounded hips of the structured skirt.

valentino-skirt
valentino-skirt

Crepe Couture skirt, £950, Valentino

 SHOP NOW

Elvis as inspiration

 

Mini-Skirt-Elsa-Hosk-Elvis
Mini-Skirt-Elsa-Hosk-Elvis

Elsa's look here is giving the King of Rock 'n' Roll, and we're totally here for it – all the way down to the leather jacket and white-socks-black-shoes combo. Pairing heeled platforms with a side-slit mini is an excellent way of giving the illusion of a slightly longer leg.

 

reformation-skirt
reformation-skirt

Margot skirt, £98, Reformation

 SHOP NOW

Break away from the mould

 

Mini-Skirt-Emily-Ratajkowski-Floral
Mini-Skirt-Emily-Ratajkowski-Floral

Some feel that with the proportion of flesh on show that a mini skirt requires, one should avoid plunging necklines to retain a sense of balance. Clearly Emily Ratajkowski isn't fazed by this rule – and as such, neither are we.

ted-baker-skirt
ted-baker-skirt

Ted Baker Ariyel mini skirt, £150, Selfridges

SHOP NOW

Dare to dopamine dress

 

Mini-Skirt-Emily-Ratajkowski-Yellow
Mini-Skirt-Emily-Ratajkowski-Yellow

When the opportunity to embrace a colourful co-ord arises, you take it – and Emily's moment in mustard is the photographic evidence to prove it.

karen-millen-skirt
karen-millen-skirt

Italian structured satin mini skirt, £99, Karen Millen

 SHOP NOW

Go hell for leather

 

Mini-Skirt-Emily-Ratajkowski-Snake
Mini-Skirt-Emily-Ratajkowski-Snake

'No runway? No problem,' seems to be an accurate description of the vibe exuded by Emily here. We adore the double snake print, and the model is a case in point that a cowboy boot is always a solid choice.

 

alice-and-olivia-skirt
alice-and-olivia-skirt

Alice + Olivia Elana snake-effect leather mini skirt, £564, The Outnet

SHOP NOW

HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.