I’m Sold on Skorts

Growing up, I hated skorts. I had no excuse. They were practical for playground shenanigans, they were versatile and they never caused outfit malfunctions. But in my middle-schooler mind, they were embarrassing! The overlapping flap of fabric in the front teased the mere possibility of a skirt, while the back’s confirmation that they were shorts made me feel unsophisticated. I wanted to spin around in an unrestricted billowing confection, gosh darn it, not wear a hybrid bottom that pandered to dress code regulations.

Many years and a fully-developed frontal cortex later, my stance on skorts has changed. Wearing a skort, I’ve come to realize, is both cute and convenient for any age. With built-in bottoms, you needn’t overthink hemline length or wind risk. Whether you opt for the front-back split or the hidden shorts variation, they are a good choice for any endeavour. And while skorts have long been an emblem of sportswear and academic uniforms, they’re undergoing an aesthetic transformation.

Look no further than the runway. This winter, Fendi showed checked skorts for men, while cool-girl brands like Simone Rocha have embraced the garment in recent seasons. When you think about it, skorts for women are the natural response to the current era of outlandish bottoms. Unlike Miu Miu’s ultra mini skirts, the Bottega Veneta-spawned pant-less trend and the booty shorts revival that’s been dominating summer, skorts are perfectly accessible and wearable off the runway. Also, they’re not at all boring!

These days, skorts for women are brimming with modern re-imaginations. Think cargo detailing, peek-a-boo hems and dainty bow add-ons. It’s time to embrace this oft-overlooked style. As I said to myself recently: Grow up — skorts are good.

The best skorts for women to shop now

Reformation Parker linen skort

You can’t go wrong with Reformation linen — and this skort is no exception. Made of 100 per cent linen, it’s a guaranteed lightweight piece that offers comfort amid summer heat. Though it has a miniskirt cut, a pair of built-in shorts peek through underneath for a perfectly wearable fit.

Lioness Countryside skort

Made of a linen-viscose blend, this beige skort is breathable with a subtle stretch. The neutral hue makes it an instant wardrobe staple, while its eccentric pockets offer a stylized finish. Balancing luxe details with toned-down tonal hues, Australian brand Lioness is known for making pieces that perfect the model off-duty aesthetic. This skort is the perfect example.

Amazon Ekouaer golf skort

In search of the best affordable activewear skort? Look no further. This Amazon top-seller is beloved for its breathable elastic fit, lightweight feel and versatile design. A skirt with shorts hidden underneath, it offers a mid-rise fit and a hemline that hits just above the knees for a more modest option.

Available in 31 colours and patterns, it’s a wrinkle-resistant pick that is perfect for packing.

Tory Burch tech piqué tennis skirt

Challengers girlies, this one’s for you. Tory Burch’s piqué tennis skort is a hit on and off the court. Crafted with recycled materials, its performance-ready structure features built-in shorts for easy all-day movement. The crisp white hue and contrasting striped detailing nod to ’70s-era nostalgia while delivering a clean-cut look.

Veronica Beard denim skort

With a skirt in the front and shorts in the back, this Veronica Beard wrap skort is the best of both worlds. Made of 100 per cent cotton, its light-wash denim finish gives a casual aesthetic, while intricate details like the statement buckle and asymmetrical wrap design give it an editorial edge. Wear it with flip-flops or pair with tights and boots when temps drop.

Athleta Serve pleated skort

Still got a taste for Brat summer? This slime green skort is for you. Made of a breathable performance-ready fabric, it keeps you cool amid any sweaty activity. With hidden shorts underneath and subtle flare-out pleating, this activewear skort is a practical pick — whether you’re perfecting your pitch or partying all night.

Aritzia Facade skort

High-wasted with a subtle side slit, Aritzia’s Facade skort is a year-round go-to. Cut responsibly from sway crepe, its soft draping offers a comfortable fit with a fine texture that fits like a dream. Featuring a skirt in the front and shorts in the back, it puts a chic spin on the classic skort design through its minimalist aesthetic.

Pictured in taupe and available in three tonal shades, this piece is a polished addition to your capsule wardrobe rotation.

Banana Republic Lina linen skort

Made with breathable linen, this skort is an elevated summertime staple. The uneven draping offers a contemporary A-line silhouette, while the statement wooden button gives it a rustic touch. Available in regular, tall and petit sizing, it’s designed with inclusivity in mind. Style with strappy sandals and an oversized tote for an effortlessly put-together end-of-summer look.