How to Wear a Skort

A skort is a pair of shorts with a panel (which can be just at the front or wraparound) that creates the illusion of a skirt.

Skorts were originally popular for sports like tennis and field hockey. But, like so many athletic garments, they have also crossed over into mainstream fashion. Why? Because, like most athletic apparel, skorts are versatile and exceptionally practical!

But if you’re new to the world of skorts, you may be unsure how to wear them. Indeed, you might dramatically underestimate their flexibility and versatility. Surprise: One skort silhouette can lend itself to many different looks.

Why Are Skorts Suddenly So Popular?

But before we dive into the styling options, you may wonder why skorts are suddenly so popular and if they’re here to stay.

Well, we’re not trend forecasters, but considering the athleisure movement keeps going from strength to strength, we’re betting on the skort becoming a mainstay in our closets. In this regard, skorts probably belong in the same category as leggings and bike shorts—basic athletic garments that find a permanent place in our closets thanks to their adaptability and comfort.

Here are some of the reasons we believe the skort is here to stay and has a place in everybody’s closet:

1. It’s a Mini Skirt Without the Modesty Concerns

Mini skirts are cute. But constantly tugging at your hemlines, moving awkwardly because you’re afraid of flashing, and generally being self-conscious—not so cute. The skort allows you to show off your legs like you’re wearing a mini with none of the awkward fears about a wardrobe malfunction. The only thing you’re at risk of revealing is that you’re really wearing shorts!

2. Stylish Skorts Are Extremely Flattering

We all love a good pair of shorts. But sometimes shorts can be unflattering. Tight on the thighs or riding up between your legs, it can feel like shorts magnify a lot of the body parts many of us feel self-conscious about, hugging the thighs, bum, and belly.

The A-line shape of a skort is one of the most universally flattering shapes you can get. It narrows the waist and smooths all those areas that shorts may accentuate. So if shorts are a no-no for you, you might consider giving a skort a whirl!

3. They Protect Your Inner Thighs from Chafing

The delicate skin of the inner thighs can become chafed when the thighs repeatedly rub together. This is more likely to happen in the summer—not only because you’re wearing fewer layers but also because of heat and sweat. Sweat makes the skin clammy, which can cause it to drag when your thighs rub across each other.

When this happens repeatedly, the skin can become red, angry, and inflamed. One way to protect your skin from chafing is to wear a snug layer of clothing that forms a physical barrier to prevent the skin from rubbing. Skorts do exactly that. Instead of a mini skirt, which would leave the skin exposed, skorts keep the thighs encapsulated and help minimize the chances of repeated rubbing.

Sold! But How to Wear The Skort??

That may all sound great, but how do you wear a skirt without looking like you want to take on Serena Williams (good luck with that, btw.)

The good news is you shouldn’t have to go out and buy entirely new outfits. Treat the skort like a mini-skirt and style it exactly the same way. That means it can be dressed up or down for:

• Everyday casual looks (weekend shopping, brunch, etc.)
• Office looks (hard to believe, but yes!)
• Evening looks, and yes, of course:
• Sporty looks (yep, watch out, Serena!)

You’ll find a tonne of styling inspo on Pinterest, Instagram, or Tiktok too, but it’s also good to just think about what you’d wear with leggings, bike shorts, or even jeans—the skort is just as versatile as these timeless, neutral garments.

Rock a Casual Skort Look

Try pairing a skort with a striped tee or graphic tee and some ankle boots or flat strappy sandals, and you’ll have the perfect look for daywear. Don’t forget the all-important accessories! A cute crossbody purse, some jewelry, and sunglasses make this a comfortable but stylish look.

If you want a slightly more elevated version of this look, try a button-down shirt. Anything from a classic chambray or denim shirt to a tailored dress shirt or a blouse can work. 

Take the Skort to the Office

Depending on whether your office has a dress code, you may feel like the skort shows a bit too much leg to be office appropriate. But if you dress that skort with some opaque black tights, a simple top or blouse, and a great blazer, you can have the foundation of a great office ensemble.

This look can go a few different directions depending on your footwear and other styling choices. Some penny loafers and you can look preppy, heels and the look can come off as glam, or flat knee-high boots will give you a modern and chic style.

For the office, keep your jewelry classic; stud earrings and simple gold chain necklaces will elevate the look without overwhelming it.

Glam Up Your Skort for the Evening

As skorts have crossed over to fashion, many more skort silhouettes have emerged. You can find a ruffled, Liberty-print skort, wrap or pleated style, or a skort that looks like a pencil skirt. Suffice it to say you can choose a skort outfit look that perfectly bridges fashion and function.

The skort is great for evening wear because you can hit the dancefloor without a shred of self-consciousness. Or hop up on a barstool without fear of flashing everybody at the bar or restaurant. And, as you can see from all this inspo, there are many looks that are at home in eveningwear.

As with the other looks, the skort is really a neutral item here, so the look really boils down to the other garments and accessories you choose. Some strappy heels, a clutch, and some statement jewelry will do a lot of work in taking an outfit from day to evening.

Let’s Not Forget the Athletic Skort Silhouette

And, of course, there’s the original skort outfit.; tennis style skorts. Crisp basics, pleated skirts, and fresh white kicks combined, and you have that timeless skort silhouette. The top can be a white crop, polo shirt or fitted tee. If you don’t want to go full-on Wimbledon, think about introducing colors other than classic white. 

You can choose anything from warm neutral hues, to classic black (try a black T-shirt.) Basically, whatever colors you feel most at home in. This sporty look is great for daywear as well as actual sports. It’s become a winning look for playing tennis, golf and all kinds of summer sports.

Introducing: The Knix Sport Skort!

Intrigued but don’t know where to start? Check out the Knix Skort. Designed with stretch fabric and an anti-chafe short liner, you can love every frictionless movement. Plus, drop-in pockets help you keep your must-haves handy.

The Skort is designed with stretch performance fabric and a super flattering mid-rise waistband for extra comfort and support. Paired with a rounded hemline for a stylish & functional fit.

Leak-Free Gusset

Discover confidence like no other comes from wearing the right gear. The Leakproof Skort supports you during any lunge, jump, or leisurely walk. Built-in backup protection keeps life's leaks out of your mind and helps you focus on your A-game.

Movement Made Easy

Movement should never make you feel uncomfortable, regardless of the heat or any irritating thigh friction. The lightweight & stretchy interior anti-chafe shorts keep you feeling great no matter what.

Shop the Knix Sport Skort here

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.