A long denim skirt began in the 1970s, when Vogue Scandinavia says people recycled men's jeans into patchworked skirts with asymmetrical seams. It returned in the early 2000s, with Britney Spears in a patchwork denim gown at the 2001 American Music Awards and in Roberto Cavalli at the 2000 MTV VMAs. Here is how to wear a long denim skirt now.
Long Denim Skirt: Patchwork Jeans to Y2K Runways
Made from old jeans
Vogue Scandinavia traces denim skirts to the 1970s, when people recycled men's jeans into skirts, often patchworked, with the asymmetrical seams left by the reworked crotch. Vogue reports that Britney Spears wore a patchwork denim gown by Kurt and Bart to the 2001 American Music Awards, and noted in 2022 that a vintage floor-length Roberto Cavalli denim and silk skirt had an early-2000s moment partly thanks to her at the 2000 MTV VMAs. It also named Diesel, Altuzarra and Luar among the spring 2023 long denim skirt makers. A long denim skirt remembers every one of those decades.
Cut and slit
A column skirt with a slit is easy to walk in. An A-line skirt moves more, and a tiered one is playful. A button front adds a casual touch. A back slit is more practical than a front one when you need to climb stairs. Check that the denim has a little give at the waist.
Wash and weight
A dark wash looks polished and almost like a trouser. A light wash feels summery. A heavier denim keeps its shape and a lighter chambray drapes. Picture her in a long dark denim skirt, a white shirt and sneakers, crossing a park on a Saturday. Bring a belt if the waist is loose.
Styling it
A long denim skirt works with a fitted tee, a bodysuit and a crisp shirt. In fall, add a chunky sweater and boots. In summer, wear it with sandals. Keep the top slim and let the skirt carry the volume.
What I would skip
I would skip a long denim skirt that is stiff enough to stand alone and one that drags on the ground in your shoes. It should move with you.
