Asymmetrical hems, whether high fashion or mall style, have become wardrobe mainstays over the past few seasons. Signalled by Proenza Schouler’s now-iconic Fall 2012 wrap skirt, the oft-copied style (ahem, Zara) is the perfect blend of skirt, skort, short and more. And while some styles have reached saturation level (ahem, mullet skirt), asymmetrical hems have proved here to stay because of their versatility—They work in pretty much every situation and wardrobe! Taking some tips from the fashion mavens du jour (our favourite street style mavericks, of course) we show you how to wear asymmetrical hems for another season. Be ahead of the curve, the curve of the hem that is.
Photography by Peter Stigter
Photography by Peter Stigter
Photography by Peter Stigter
Photography by Peter Stigter
Photography by Peter Stigter
Photography by Peter Stigter
Photography by Peter Stigter
Photography by Peter Stigter
Photography by Peter Stigter
Photography by Peter Stigter
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How To Wear Asymmetrical Hems
Tip 1: A carefully pleated and tucked dress like this one can hide a multitude of sins – strong knees shown off in the front, wobbly legs hidden in the back. Think of it as the mullet skirt 2.0
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How To Wear Asymmetrical Hems
Tip 2: If you can’t quite let go of your mullet skirts put a spin on it. We love this leather version and the off centre peak — all it takes is some creative styling. Just be sure to go solidly off centre and firmly to one side to avoid a dishevelled haphazard look.
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How To Wear Asymmetrical Hems
Tip 3: If angular hems aren’t your style try this gentle drop on for size. A less exaggerated mullet skirt that would be perfect for a date night or even a summer wedding without screaming “trend”. A soft dip at the back is a timeless silhouette.
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How To Wear Asymmetrical Hems
Tip 4: A structural origami skirt like this Rodarte version needs some balancing out. Try a rumpled sweater to soften the edges of such a strong silhouette on the bottom.
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How To Wear Asymmetrical Hems
Tip 5: This is textbook asymmetrical hem, perfectly graphic and without being too harsh or angular, thanks to the soft corners of the hem. A similar style is the perfect match for statement-making heels.
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How To Wear Asymmetrical Hems
Tip 6: Giovanna Battaglia can do no wrong. A plain black skirt, with an simple pleat screams effortless. This skirt would transition perfectly from day to night just by switching out the top.
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How To Wear Asymmetrical Hems
Tip 12: This super casual tied and knotted skirt can easily be achieved with your favourite long skirt. Just cut a couple slits and panels into the bottom hem and pull and gather accordingly. Very Chloé Spring 2014.
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How To Wear Asymmetrical Hems
Tip 8: We just love the soft sweep of the hem. Paired with an asymmetrical shirt on tip, the angles of the fabrics are balanced out on either side. If you’re going for a bold shape on the one side, think about evening it out with your hair or bracelets on the other side. Try to avoid layering it all up on one side. Lopsided is never a good look.
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How To Wear Asymmetrical Hems
Tip 9: A handkerchief hem like the one seen here on Yasmin Sewell here is an easy way to get in on the asymmetrical hem trend. A little boho, a little rock and roll, a lot stylish.
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How To Wear Asymmetrical Hems
Tip 10: It doesn’t have to be a drastic length difference to make a statement. This is the perfect way to jazz up a work outfit that is still respectful for even the most conservative of offices.