Utility skirts are undeniably an icon of '90s fashion. I'm thinking lace-up heels, skin-tight, navel-grazing tops and teeny tiny bags. It's all very Destiny's Child in the music for Survivor, and while the trio looked fabulous in all their early noughties splendour, it's not exactly a look I want to be recreating for my daily commute on the grey streets of London.
It was none other than Who What Wear columnist Monikh who drew my attention to a certain COS skirt, which definitely had utility undertones yet somehow felt far more refined. Maybe it was the longer length or the subdued hue, but either way, I could instantly imagine myself wearing it with knee-high boots and a colour-matching roll-neck. Before I knew it, I was craving a utility skirt. Miracles can happen.
To keep the look modern, I would recommend styling with paired-back separates: Think oversize shirts, roll-necks and white tees. I like how Chloe Harrouche has kept hers super grown-up with a blue shirt, strappy heels and paired-back accessories, however, I could also imagine this outfit looking just as good with chunky boots for a more edgy finish. So if you want to get ahead of the fashion crowd this year, invest in a utility skirt. Trust us—you won't regret it. Scroll down to shop our edit.
Style Notes: I tried on this skirt in H&M for the Joy of Shopping and enjoyed drawing out its minimalist undertones with a colour-matching top.
Style Notes: Lisa Aiken takes the trend a step further by styling it with a sheer white shirt and animal-print shoes and bag.
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