How to wear skirts in winter, you ask? We’ve got you covered.

That transitional period between summer and autumn has disappeared, leaving us firmly on the road to winter. The window to wear those light jackets is closing (if not already closed, judging by the howling wind outside as I write this), and layering is becoming increasingly important. The desire to be out and about that comes with the sunshine has been replaced by a yearning for your duvet, fluffy dressing gown and a hot chocolate. But that doesn’t mean you can’t look good. You don’t have to hide your skirts away, just style them cleverly.

How to wear skirts in winter

Pablo Cuadra/Getty Images

Tights

Duh! I know this is an obvious one, but hear me out. Tights are extremely on-trend this year, making them more than just a practical layer. Lacy tights, black tights, coloured tights, patterned tights… You can have as much fun as you want – pair them with a mini skirt in a neutral colour and let them make the statement! Of course, for extra warmth, opaque and high-denier tights are the go-to.

Openwork Opaque Tights

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Daniel Zuchnik/Getty Images

Trousers under skirts

While this might sound strange, it’s become a huge trend with the younger generations. Taking inspiration from the ’00s outfits of stars like Ashley Tisdale, the look was first memed, then copied (albeit with slightly more colour coordination and slightly less garish fabric choices). You can style this look yourself with skirts you already have in your wardrobe: pair them with straight-leg or bootcut jeans or smart black office trousers. However, if you want the guesswork taken out of it, there are plenty of pant styles online that come with a built-in skirt.

Raimonda Kulikauskiene/Getty Images

Leggings under skirts

This one is less of a fashion statement and more of a hack. If you still want to wear your maxi skirts but don’t want the cold wind wafting around your legs, opt for leggings. This would be appropriate with long skirts that cover the leg and don’t allow the leggings to show; however, if you opt for an inoffensive black pair, it’s not the end of the world if they peek through occasionally.

Claudio Lavenia/Getty Images

Christian Vierig/Getty Images

Cotton Rib Legging

Christian Vierig/Getty Images

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Thick, warm fabrics

Now, onto actual winter-friendly skirts. Long styles are an obvious choice, but miniskirts can also look super chic in the winter with the right tights and boots. Thick fabrics like wool, corduroy, velvet and suede will be a great addition to your winter wardrobe – providing both the much-needed insulation and that autumn/winter aesthetic.

Christian Vierig/Getty Images

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Winter-friendly colours

While the colour of your skirt won’t necessarily keep you toasty–although black does absorb the most heat, thanks GCSE Physics!–, it certainly will make you look the part. Opting for winter-friendly colours like burgundy, wine red, dark green, navy and, of course, black will make it look like you know what you’re doing. Trends come and go (this year’s favourite shade, for instance, is chocolate brown), but these winter-friendly shades will never go completely out of style.

Daniel Zuchnik/Getty Images

Pair with a chunky knit or heavy-duty coat

To stay warm in the winter, you’ll need to invest in your upper layers, too. A winter skirt is nothing without a chunky knit on top, or a warm statement coat. You can opt for a jumper in the aforementioned winter-friendly shades, but I also think a white or cream chunky sweater looks very cool in the winter. Jacket styles are up to you: dramatic faux fur numbers, practical warm puffers, or, if you really want to be on-trend, coats with a cape! Layers are also key: a simple turtleneck in a neutral shade is perfect for popping on underneath these pieces, and will protect you from the elements (and that itchy jumper!)

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Christian Vierig/Getty Images