Back in the day, the fashion police decided which skirt lengths you could or could not wear. Not anymore -- now you're free to choose whatever hemline you think is most flattering on you. And with skirts, it's easy to have fun with color and prints -- bright hues and eye- catching patterns that may be overpowering on a dress or pants look just swell on a skirt.
Balance bigger hips
Jainmy Martinez, 30, likes to dress "conservative and classy," but she still wants to be a little sexy and have fun with her clothes. Fitting her fuller hips can be challenging, however. Jainmy says that the best skirts "hug my thighs and hips," making the most of her curves in an appealing way.
Find skirts without extra fabric at the hips; skip pleats and gathers.
Look for extra volume at the hem to balance hips.
Seek out skirts that cling to curves gently without pulling.
On Jainmy: Skirt, a.n.a, $40, sizes 6-16; at JCPenney. Top, Jones New York Sport, sizes S-XL, $34; at department stores. Earrings, Monet, $15; 800-555-9838. Necklace, $7; at Forever 21. Shoes, RSVP, $40, sizes 6-11;
Smooth a belly
"My waist is big compared to my hips," says Deborah Rose, 47. Finding the right waistband to fit and flatter her stomach is a priority for her. "I don't want to appear as if I'm trying to look my daughter's age," says Deborah, but she doesn't want to look "too old ladyish" either.
Opt for a flat, stitched waistband.
Try inverted pleats for a slim shape.
Look for a sturdy fabric that won't cling.
On Deborah: Skirt, George ME, $16, sizes 4-18; at Wal-Mart. Top, Cable & Gauge, $49, sizes S-XL; at select Macy's stores. Earrings, $28; Bracelet, $38; Shoes, Classified, $35, sizes 5 1/2-10;
Stretch shorter legs
Maria Taylor, 28, has an eclectic fashion sense she calls "funky cool," and she loves shopping for skirts. Maria describes her legs as "short but very shapely." Finding the right hem length is key to showing off those legs.
Choose a hem that hits just above the knee.
Check for skirts in the petite section -- even if you're not technically a petite.
Seek out straight skirts to elongate your frame.
On Maria: Skirt, $44, sizes 4-20 (petite and regular); Top, $17, sizes XS-XXL; at Old Navy. Bracelet, $6; at Forever 21. Belt, $25; Shoes, $20, sizes 5-12 (no 10 or 11); at Payless ShoeSource.
Add curves
Lisa Williams, 39, has a tall, thin frame, and the wrong skirt style can make her look lanky and formless. Plus, like many women, she prefers to cover her knees. "It's an area I'm self-conscious about," says Lisa, "especially when I'm feeling out of shape."
Go for a full, drop-waisted skirt with gathers or pleats.
Stick to hems that hit just below the knee -- a hem that hits the ankle or even mid-calf is too long.
Buy a skirt in a bold print.
On Lisa: Skirt, $37, sizes 2-18; at New York & Company. Top, $25, sizes 2-16; Necklace, $8; at Icing. Bracelet, $5; at Forever 21. Shoes, a.n.a, $50, sizes 5-11; at JCPenney.
Flatter a plus size
"It's really important to feel good in what you're wearing," says Danielle Banks, 24, who wears more skirts than pants year-round. Danielle adds that in hot summer weather she likes "flowy skirts -- they just skim over me. This skirt is really comfortable, and the bright colors are great."
Avoid ruffles, but try tiered styles.
Opt for flattering A lines.
Pick flowing fabrics.
On Danielle: Skirt, $40, sizes 12W- 32W; Top, $40, sizes 14-28; at Lane Bryant. Earrings, $35; Bracelet, $5; at Forever 21. Shoes, Yellow Box, $69, sizes 5 1/2- 10; at department stores.