E! Illustration/ Getty ImagesThe latest controversial fashion trend to take over city street style? Skirts over pants. You heard that right.
Millennials may remember this polarizing layered look from Disney Channel’s early and mid-aughts era, but celebrities are showing us that the outfit combo can look chic in 2026.
Instead of sequins and bootcut denim (yes, we’re referring to that 2005 Ashley Tisdale red carpet look), stars including Dua Lipa, Shakira, Anne Hathaway, and Myha’la are opting for sleek silhouettes, top-notch tailoring, and unexpected pairings.
- The skirt over pants pairing peaked in the early and mid-2000s, with stars taking a maximalist approach to the trend.
- In 2026, stars like Kendall Jenner, Jennifer Lawrence, and Kaia Gerber are styling the controversial combo in a modern way.
- Built-in styles that combine skirts and pants into one piece are the best way to avoid extra bulk.
How to Rock the Skirts Over Pants Trend in 2026
While the skirt and pants pairing of the 2000s was all about maximalism, these days, celebs are taking a more subtle approach to the trend. Think solid hues, streamlined designs, and modern textures for an elevated feel.
Or you can also take a page from Industry’s Myha’la’s book with a voluminous midi skirt and patterned pants for a whimsical feel.
They make the ideal summer-to-fall transition piece, too. Wear them with a lace trimmed satin cami in the summer and a sleeveless turtleneck in the fall.
Because layering a skirt over pants can often look a bit bulky, it’s best to opt for built-in styles that combine skirts and pants into one piece.
With the celebrity nod of approval, are you ready to rock the daring combination?
Verdusa Lace Skirt Flowy Pants
An affordable way to try out the trend, this pair features a balloon silhouette and asymmetrical lace-trimmed overlay.
H&M Skirt-Layered Satin Trousers
These straight leg satin trousers with a mini side tie skirt look simple yet elegant when paired with pointed-toe heels and an off-the-shoulder top.
Free-est Gauzy Knit Skants
With its midi-length overlay, these flowy pants with ruched details are made from a breezy gauze fabric light enough to wear in the summer heat.
ASOS DESIGN Straight Leg Pants with Skirt Detail
This pair combines trending gingham print and a wrap style skirt for a touch of whimsy.
Halli Foldover Waist Skirted Pants
If you find the trend too daring, these ruched flair pants are a subtle pair to try since they feature what is basically an exaggerated foldover waistband that can pass as a mini skirt.
Massimo Dutti Flowing Trousers with Skirt Detail
Sleek and stylish, we’d wear these linen blend skirt trousers with a crisp white tank and layers upon layers of bangles.
Free-est Aqualuna Linen Skants
Made from a breathable cotton and linen blend fabric, this slouchy low-rise pair effortlessly combines a mini skirt and matching wide leg pants.
Daisy Street Cloud Eyelet Lace Wrap Skirt Pants
A scalloped trend and eyelet design give these layered pants a feminine flair that can be styled so many different ways.
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