A little black dress is easy. Jeans and a tee? Always looks great. But a skirt…well, that can be a bit trickier. However, a good skirt — whether midi, maxi or mini — can be your wardrobe’s secret weapon. With these simple tips on how to style skirts, you’ll have endless outfit options and look effortlessly chic.

How to Style Mini Skirts

With mini skirts, the most important thing is balance. Since you’re showing off your beautiful legs, it’s best to pair short skirts with a slightly more conservative top. Though there’s nothing wrong with being sexy, a V-neck camisole might leave you feeling a little too exposed when matched with a mini.

Instead, pair a mini skirt with a fitted black tee or bodysuit — it’ll turn heads without feeling formal. When it gets a little colder, throw on boots and a chunky sweater or a turtleneck and a jacket. You’ll stay warm but feel cool.

What to Pair With Pencil Skirts

Pencil skirts typically give off secretary vibes, but they don’t necessarily have to be so formal. Balance out a figure-hugging pencil skirt with a cozy, balloon-sleeve sweater for a non-stuffy work look. You also don’t have to relegate your knitwear to your top half. A sweater skirt can look office appropriate when paired with a long-sleeve button-down or blazer, and weekend appropriate if you swap the blouse for a cropped tee.

What Looks Good With Midi Skirts

For so long, women only wore their skirts short or long, missing the versatility of a midi. While the length of each can vary between just below the knee to about five inches above the ankle, midi skirts with a slight to full A-line cut are comfortable, flattering and easy to pair with all your favorite tops.

A silky midi skirt paired with a tee or chunky sweater is the perfect work-to-dinner duo. Or, for a more casual look, try a graphic tee over a brightly colored or boldly patterned skirt. The unexpected combo can go with sneakers or heels, depending on the occasion or your mood.

This is also your chance to wear a crop top— the longer length of the midi skirt will help balance it out, and if your skirt is high waisted enough, you don’t even need to bare much skin if you’re looking to keep it modest. We love a matching set, but you can also go for longer layers, too. An oversize blazer or sweater over a midi skirt is a fresh way to play with proportions.

What to Wear With Long Skirts

Long skirts are not just for gowns! Most maxi skirts are just as comfortable as sweatpants, except they look a lot more chic. And not every long skirt needs to skim the floor — a lot of casual ensembles are great with skirts that hit right around the ankle (and they let you show off your shoes!).

If you have a really long, flowing skirt, you can get away with a skin-baring top and still look chic. Ankle-length maxis in rich colors and bold prints go with everything from a simple sweater to a silk blouse. Add a red lip and some jewelry, and you’re ready for whatever the night brings.