With summer finally on the horizon, the search for low-effort yet stylish outfits that work for the forecast begins. Jeans and a T-shirt is often my go-to, especially when I need to be out of the house in a hurry, but I’ve been actively looking for more interesting solutions that offer the same ease. So, I turned my attention to skirts.

I think we can all agree that a skirt is a no-brainer on a hot summer’s day, but they’re enjoying a bit of a moment right now, to say the least. 2024 has seen skirt trend after skirt trend come to the fore, and it didn’t take long for me to start noticing a pattern in how fashion people are currently styling theirs.

In the cooler months, I usually pair my skirts with a boxy blazer, but with balmy days almost here (at long last), I’m taking my cues from social media and switching to an elegant waistcoat to freshen up the whole look. Not only will a waistcoat add extra style credentials to any skirt, but they’re also just as on trend this season, and I’m yet to find a more current pairing than this.

Whether you prefer a longer maxi skirt, a classic slip or a playful mini, pairing it with a waistcoat is a foolproof way to look chic all season, and there are so many styling options. Mix and match your skirts of any length with whichever waistcoat style speaks to you most—longline, cropped, fitted, loose… take your pick.

What I love most about this new-season pairing is that it can be dressed up or down to suit all occasions. Be it with ballet flats or fisherman sandals on casual days or a pair of kitten heels for summer evenings out, I’m about to wear this classy outfit on rotation all season. Need more convincing? Just look to influencers including Taffy Msipa, Monikh Dale and Débora Rosa, who have been showcasing their takes on the combo all over my feed recently.

Scroll on to see the classiest skirt and waistcoat pairings I’ve saved, then browse the best pieces to re-create them with.

Classy Skirt and Waistcoat Outfits:

A black waistcoat and white maxi skirt combo is one that I’ll be wearing all summer.

A super long maxi skirt like Debora’s will add even more elegance to the look. Add a shorter waistcoat for an even more tailored look.

A linen mini skirt is a great way to add a casual touch to the look. Wear it with a pair of fisherman sandals and you have an easy yet stylish outfit formula for summer.

A kitten heel and clutch will take your waistcoat-and-skirt outfit from day to night.

An oversized waistcoat looks so cool paired with a mini skirt.

Angela proves that monochrome is an effortless way to look chic all summer.

Shop Waistcoat and Skirt Outfits: