what are long strip skirt called? Mystery Solved!
What are long strip skirts called? The answer to this question is that they are airy clothes long till the ankles or to the ground so that the wind can easily pass through them. These can be made from light cotton-like chiffon, silk, or cotton. Their design is also straight forward. These are inspired by the olden days of cotton-like Greek “chiton” or Indian “dhoti.” In modern fashion, these are found in minimalist and fancy styles.
You can easily wear them by using a belt, with fitted tops, or with a jacket. This is the reason why they look flattering for every body type. People like skirts because they are comfortable and stylish. But a question comes to people’s mind: which skirt will suit which body type? How do you combine the skirt? Which shoes to wear? The answer to these questions depends on the skirt’s design and the occasion. Just like people like the coquette soft style, in the same way long strip skirts are also liked.
There are many types of skirts, such as A-line, pencil, wrap, pleated, maxi, etc. You can choose them according to your size and personality.Skirts are timeless clothes. You can make old skirts trendy by wearing them with new tops or pair them with a shirt for a classic look. This gives you the courage and confidence to experiment. If you learn to style a skirt correctly, it will enhance your personality. Those who follow the Old money style can also wear it.
Defining the Long Strip Skirt: Key Characteristics
A long strip skirt is a long, flowy, ankle—or floor-length design that can be made from single or multiple fabric panels. This skirt creates a vertical drape that creates an elegant and slim silhouette on your body. One of its key features is its lightweight fabric, like chiffon, silk, or linen, which gives it a breezy feel.
For winter, weighty materials like wool blends are also used. In today’s latest trends, striped patterns and ombre effects are preferred, like eBay’s significant white-blue striped ombre maxi skirt, which looks casual and chic.
Historical Origins and Cultural Significance
The concept of long striped skirts dates back to ancient times. Around 3000 BC, in Egypt, people wore clothes called “shanti,” a long linen cloth tied by wrapping around the waist.
In Greece, people wore similar clothes, such as the “chiton” and ” toga ” in Rome. In South Asia, “dhoti” and “sari” have been used for thousands of years. These clothes are not only practical but also a part of identity.
In some parts of Africa, the tradition of “wrapper” is followed, which has bright colors and geometric designs. Draped skirts were also very popular during the Victorian era in 19th-century Europe, but at that time, they were made from heavier fabrics.
Today, the dress has become a part of global fashion. Hawaiian “pareo” beachwear, or the Japanese “hakama,” can be seen in traditional and modern styles.
Common Names Across Cultures
- Sarong: This is a cotton/rayon wrap skirt popular in Southeast Asia. You can wear it comfortably at the beach or at home.
- Lungi: A lungi is a traditional cotton skirt tied at the waist worn by men in South Asia. It looks great in summer.
- Pareo: A colorful printed skirt worn in Polynesia, it can be worn as a top or dress.
- Kanga: A cloth with prints and messages worn in East Africa. Females wear it as a skirt or dupatta.
- Lava-lava: This is a skirt worn by men and women in the Pacific Islands and used in school uniforms.
- Pagne: Pagne is a long cotton cloth used in West Africa. It is worn by draping it over a skirt or gown.
- Sampot: A sampot is a traditional silk/cotton skirt from Cambodia. It has intricate designs and is suitable for weddings.
- Fustanella: This is a pleated skirt from Greece that is considered part of historical uniforms and can be seen in folk dances today.
- Kikoi: This is the formal skirt worn by men in Tonga. It can be worn in church or official events.
- Tupenu: A formal skirt for men in Tonga, worn to church or official events.
The Wrap Skirt: A Timeless Variation
The wrap skirt is an adjustable design that can be fitted at the waist using a belt or ties; it is a favorite dress of every season. It is coming in today’s trends with recycled fabrics and bold geometric prints. Its modern versions include hidden snaps, stretch waistbands, and asymmetric hemlines.
This is why you can wear it in office meetings and weekend outings. Celebrities have elevated the street style look by wearing it with crop tops. Sustainable brands are also launching zero-waste patterns. This is why eco-conscious buyers are getting attracted to it.
Sarong Skirts: From Beachwear to Everyday Fashion
Sarong skirts were once worn as beach covers on the beaches and tropical areas of Southeast Asia. But nowadays, they are worn with casual and semi-formal outfits. Made from real cotton, rayon, or georgette fabrics, this skirt comes in a wrap style.
It is tied at the waist to create a flowy silhouette. The fashion trends of 2020 have made it more popular in tropical prints, neutral tones, and striped designs.
Nowadays, people style it with cropped tops like jeans. It is worn with button-down shirts to give a formal look. Brands have modernized it with adjustable ties, side slits, and embellished borders. That’s why it fits everywhere, from going to the gym to the office.
Asymmetrical and Handkerchief Hem Styles
Asymmetrical skirts have an uneven hemline, like knee length on one side and calf length on the other, which gives a dynamic movement on the waist. This cut gives a bold and edgy look, which is why it is paired with leather jackets and chunky boots.
The edge of the skirt in the handkerchief hem has a scalloped design. If we look closely, this design is more visible in maxi skirts, especially with soft fabrics like chiffon or satin.
Maxi and Tiered Strip Skirts
- Oversized Stripes: Oversized skirts feature wide, vertical stripes that emphasize height. Especially in neutral tones and pastels.
- Tiered Ruffles: These are two to three layers of skirts made from flowy fabrics; these ruffs are especially popular at festivals and weddings.
- Denim Maxis: These are full-length denim skirts with side slits and distressed details which are perfect for a casual look.
- Metallic Accents: Gold/silver thread work is used in tiered skirts to make them trendy for party wear.
- Patchwork Designs: Recycled fabric is used in these skirts, which have color block panels that support a very chic aesthetic.
- High-Low Hem: These are maxi skirts that are short in the front and long in the back, making movement easy.
Fabric Choices: Impact on Drape and Structure
The flow and shape of any shirt depend on its fabric. Lighter cotton, like chiffon, gives an airy and flowy look, which is why it is perfect for maxi skirts.
- Silk is smooth and shiny and elegantly follows the body’s curves.
- The linen is a little stiff, which is why it is used in A-line skirts. One drawback is that it tends to wrinkle quickly.
- Cotton is versatile. It is used for lightweight summer versions and thicker denim pencil skirts, which add a slight stretch along with warmth.
The weight and texture of the fabric play an essential role in making the skirt casual or formal.
Styling Tips for Different Body Types
- Pear Shape: A-line skirts balance the hips. So you should pair fitted tops with wide belts.
- Apple Shape: Wear high-waisted wrap skirts to define the waist for an apple shape. Long jackets make the upper body look slim.
- Petite: Those with short heights should wear mini or knee-length skirts to make their legs look longer. Vertical stripes and pointed heels can also be tried.
- Tall & Slim: Tall and slim women should balance proportions with floor-length skirts and bold prints, or they can experiment with crop tops.
- Hourglass: Those with curvy bodies should wear pencil skirts to highlight their curves. And they can also style them with fitted blouses and slim belts.
DIY Long Strip Skirts: Simple Sewing Techniques
Nowadays, DIY fashion is experiencing a boom. According to the report of Craft Industry Alliance, 35% growth has been seen in the sales of sewing machines. People make their custom wrap skirts from upcycled sarees or cotton bedsheets. Design making is being taught a lot on TikTok. Many brands have shared free online patterns so people can tailor skirts with adjustable waistbands at home.
Seasonal Adaptations: Light vs. Heavy Fabrics
Choices also change according to the weather. In modern fashion, linen and recycled chiffon are prioritized more, while corduroy and wool-cashmere blends are used more for winter.
Talking about culture, inspired by the traditional Tehuana skirts by Mexican artist Fida Kahlo, today, brands like Dior have modernized them on the runway
Conclusion
A simple way to wear long strip skirts is to choose a cut that suits your body. Choose names like “sarong” for fabric and style according to the season. This kind of dressing is versatile as well as elegant.
FAQ’S
What are those long skirts called?
Long skirts are often called maxi skirts. Some styles have specific names like bohemian skirts (flowy) or pencil skirts (fitted and straight).
What are gypsy skirts called now?
The term “gypsy skirt” is outdated. Today, they’re called bohemian skirts, tiered skirts. Gypsy skirts are known for loose, layered designs and earthy prints.
What is A-line skirt called?
An A-line skirt gets its name from its shape. These are narrower than whites and flared like the letter “A.” It’s also called a flared skirt in some styles.
What is a flare skirt?
A flare skirt widens from the hips or thighs, creating a dramatic shape.