How to Style a Long Black Skirt (Day to Night, All Year)

If I could keep only one skirt, it would be a long black one. It goes with every top I own, it works on a regular Tuesday and on Shabbos, and it looks just as right in July as it does in January. The trick is keeping it from feeling plain or heavy, so it looks like a real outfit and not a uniform.

Here's how I style a long black skirt so it feels fresh every time I wear it.

Pick the right black skirt

Not all black skirts do the same job. It helps to know which one you're reaching for.

• Knit or jersey. Soft, stretchy and easy. This is the everyday skirt for school runs, errands and long days. My knit skirt guide has more ideas for this fabric.
• Pleated. Pleats add movement and look polished with almost no effort. A black pleated midi or maxi dresses up a simple sweater right away. See how to style a pleated skirt.
• Satin. A black satin skirt is the easiest way to look dressed for a simcha or a holiday meal. I cover it in my satin skirt guide.
• A-line or flared. A classic shape that flatters almost everyone and works with tucked or loose tops.
• Straight or pencil-style maxi. Sleek and grown-up for the office, as long as it has a slit-free hem or a kick pleat so you can walk easily.

If you're unsure about length, my post on midi vs maxi skirts by height helps you find the hem that works best for you.

Tops that always work

Because black goes with everything, the top sets the mood.

• Fitted knits. A slim turtleneck or crew-neck sweater tucked into a black maxi is clean and modern. My turtleneck guide explains how to tuck it smoothly.
• Button-down shirts. A crisp white or striped shirt with a black skirt is a classic work look. Tuck it fully or just the front. More in how to style a button-down shirt.
• Silk and satin blouses. A cream or jewel-tone blouse makes the skirt feel elegant for Shabbos and evenings. See my silk blouse post.
• Chunky sweaters. For cozy days, a cable knit half-tucked into a soft black skirt balances the volume. My cable knit sweater guide shows how.
• Long-sleeve tees. A simple tee in a soft color keeps it casual for weekends.

Colors to pair with black

Black is the easiest base there is, but some pairings look especially good.

• Camel and cream. Warm, soft and polished. A camel sweater or coat over a black skirt is one of my favorite fall looks.
• White. Crisp and fresh, great for work and summer.
• Burgundy, forest green and navy. Rich and seasonal for fall and winter.
• Blush and dusty pink. Softens black and feels pretty for Shabbos.
• All black. A black top with a black skirt looks chic when you mix textures, like a ribbed knit with a satin skirt.

My winter color combinations post has more shade pairings if you want to branch out.

Layers for colder weather

A long black skirt carries you through winter better than almost anything.

• Cardigans. A long cardigan worn open adds a long, flattering line. A cropped one buttoned up shows your waist.
• Blazers. A tailored blazer turns the skirt into an office outfit. See how to style a blazer.
• Coats. A camel or grey coat that covers most of the skirt looks elegant. My coats for long skirts guide covers which lengths work.
• Tights. Black tights make the whole outfit look longer and warmer. My tights guide helps you pick the right weight.

Shoes for every season

Shoes change the whole feel of the outfit.

• Ankle boots for fall and winter weekdays. See ankle boots with long skirts.
• Knee-high boots for cold days, so you stay covered when the skirt moves.
• Ballet flats and loafers for work and Shabbos.
• White sneakers for a relaxed weekend look.
• Block heels for weddings and evenings.

Outfit ideas

• Weekday: a black knit maxi, a grey crew-neck sweater front-tucked, black tights and ankle boots.
• Office: a black A-line midi, a white button-down, a camel blazer and loafers.
• Shabbos: a black pleated maxi, a cream silk blouse, pearl earrings and ballet flats.
• Simcha: a black satin maxi, a burgundy velvet top, a statement brooch and block heels.
• Weekend: a black jersey skirt, a striped long-sleeve tee, a denim jacket and white sneakers.
• Snowy day: a black wool skirt, a chunky cream cable knit, a camel coat and knee-high boots.

Make it look less plain

A black skirt can look flat if everything around it is flat too. A few small touches help.

• Add texture. Ribbed knits, satin, velvet and tweed give black some depth.
• Use a belt. A thin brown or gold-buckle belt over a tucked top gives the outfit shape.
• Accessorize. A headscarf in a warm color, a brooch or pearls do a lot of work.
• Mind the fabric. Black shows lint and fading quickly. A lint roller and washing on cold, inside out, keep it looking deep and dark.

The bottom line

A long black skirt is the hardest-working piece in a modest wardrobe. Own one soft everyday version and one dressier one, pair them with tops in camel, cream or a rich color, and switch the shoes for the occasion. With that, you have outfits for every day of the week. For more building blocks, see my modest capsule wardrobe.

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