E! Illustration/GettySkirts and dresses styled over pants are making a comeback. Also known as “skants,” the controversial skirt-over-pants early aughts trend has returned.
Although celebs make the layered look seem easy (thanks to a really good stylist), the layered look can certainly be intimidating. But this trend doesn’t have to be reserved for the style set–or come with a designer price tag.
Stylist Tips For Wearing Skirts Over Pants:
- Choose streamlined skirts and dresses with clean lines and movement.
- Pair voluminous layers with tailored pants to keep the look balanced.
- Start with a monochromaic outfit, like a black slip skirt over black trousers.
E! asked celebrity stylist Justine Logue (stylist to stars like Victoria Justice and Tana Mongeau) how to approach the DIY trend practically and stylishly. Here are the easiest and trendiest formulas for pulling off the look.
Why Are Skirts Over Pants Trending Again?
The mash-up look first took off in the ’90s andY2K era, when stars layered mini skirt hemlines overjeans. Today’s version is cleaner and more polished. As seen on stylish stars likeJennifer Lawrence andDua Lipa, the trend still feels fun and nostalgic, but more mature–especially when styled minimally with a neutral color palette or simple top to keep the focus on the layers below.
“Fashion is moving away from ultra-minimal dressing and back towards standing out and being creative,” Logue tells E! Insider in an exclusive interview.
The stylist also likes that the trend is an accessible way to reinvigorate the wardrobe you already have. “You can use pieces that you already have in your closet, instead of buying something new.”
How to Wear a Skirt Over Pants
The key is balance, look for light fabrics and easy shapes. “If the skirt or dress has a ton of volume, I would pair it with a simpler, tailored pant,” Logue says. “If the skirt or dress is sleeker, you can have a little more fun with the pant.”
Logue’s foolproof formula for beginners is monochromatic and she recommends using dressier pieces to elevate the look. “Try a black slip skirt or slip dress over black, tailored trousers.”
The trend offers practical benefits as well as stylish, like safety against wardrobe malfunctions and using layers to transition lightweight summer dresses and skirts into fall.
When to Try The “Skant” Trend
“I see it less as a trend and more of a styling option,” Logue says. “It will remain one of those fashion techniques that people can come back to when they want to experiment or give familiar pieces a fresh perspective.”
The stylist says the look can work for a number of occasions, depending on the layers chosen. Logue particularly likes it for a girls’ night out, but a tailored tonal version could also work for dinner, the office, or an event.
How to Keep the Layered Look Balanced
Let one piece be the focus. “When every piece is bold and dramatic, it can be a little overwhelming,” Logue says. If the skirt or dress makes a statement, keep the pants, top and accessories simpler to avoid overwhelming the ensemble.
Can Petite Shoppers Pull Off The Pant-Skirt Trend?
Petite shoppers may want to pay closer attention to length and proportion. Instead of layering a longer dress over pants, Logue suggests trying a shorter tunic to keep the outfit from overwhelming the frame.
Dôen Lavona Tie-Detailed Pants
If you’re not ready to DIY the trend, opt for a skirt-over-pants hybrid like this bestseller from Dôen–in summer’s butter yellow trend, no less. The high-rise, wide-leg silhouette is rendered in silky satin fabric and adorned with a matching scarf belt that wraps around the hips and ties at the side, a high-end take on the scarf trend.
Mango Pants with Removable Scarf
Get the ‘skant’ look with less commitment with these cotton pants featuring a removable scarf at the waist, an easy way to get the layered look.
Staud Hannah Pants
Now on sale, the sleek black bootcut trouser features an overlay panel that creates a skirt effect. This is a celeb-loved brand so take advantage of the sale price while it lasts.
Free People Aqualuna Linen Skants
Make the layered look work for summer with lightweight fabrics, like this semi-sheer georgette pant with an asymmetrical skirt overlay. The breezy option is perfect for vacations, festivals, or nights out when you want some coverage.
Outcast Haillie Pants
Make the layered look work for summer with lightweight fabrics, like this semi-sheer georgette pant with an asymmetrical skirt overlay. The breezy option is perfect for vacations, festivals, or nights out when you want some coverage.
Missed Zara Larsson’s Depop Drop? These Deals Have Got the Y2K Vibe
