Linen Skirts and Shorts: Choosing the Cut, Length and Waist
For a linen skirt, choose the waist first: a wrap or an elastic waist is the most forgiving, and a zipped waist needs the most accurate measurement. For linen shorts, choose the length and the rise, because a mid-thigh pair with a high waist is the easiest place to start. After that, the cut and hem length are a matter of how you like to move.
Here are the main skirt cuts, two shorts styles, and what to check on each before you order.
Skirts: five cuts
- Wrap: the high waist linen wrap midi skirt is 32 inches (81 cm) at its fullest part, with a wrap tie, side pockets and pleat folds for more flare.
- Circle: the women's linen circle skirt with a belt is a knee-length umbrella skirt of 24 inches (61 cm), with side pockets, an invisible zip and no elastic.
- A-line maxi: the linen A-line maxi skirt is 37 inches (94 cm), with an elasticated waistband, a zip and hook closure, pockets and a side slit.
- Pleated and flared: the black linen midi skirt is 32 inches (81 cm), with an elasticated waist and side pockets.
- A-line midi in a blend: the linen cotton blend midi skirt is 27 inches (69 cm), with an elastic waist, pockets and front buttons.
One honest note on the blend skirt
Almost everything in our range is pure linen. This skirt is the one exception: it is a linen cotton blend, and the title says so. A blend is softer and creases a little less than pure linen, and it is less distinctive. If you want pure linen, choose one of the other four.
The waist decides the fit
- A wrap waist ties, so you set the fit yourself each time you put it on.
- An elastic waist is comfortable and forgiving, and relaxed about hip and waist differences.
- A zipped waist with no elastic, as in the circle skirt, is the neatest line and the least forgiving. Linen does not stretch, so the waist measurement has to be right.
The size guide lists waist and hip for each size. As an example, a size M is a waist of 27-29 inches (69-74 cm) and a hip of 38-40 inches (96-101 cm). If your waist and hip fall in different rows, which is common, send both numbers and we cut to them at no extra cost.
Choosing the length
- Knee length (the circle skirt) is the easiest to move in, and is good with flats, sandals or sneakers.
- Midi sits between the knee and the ankle and works with almost any shoe. This is the most versatile length.
- Maxi gives cover and drama, and a side slit helps you walk. Set the hem for your shoes, or it drags.
Check the length on the page against a skirt you already own, and look at the model's height, which is listed on each page. We can make the hem shorter or longer, so tell us before you order.
Shorts: two cuts
- Drawstring: the relaxed fit linen high waist shorts are described as mid-thigh at 16 inches (41 cm), with an adjustable drawstring waist and no elastic.
- Elasticated: the high waisted linen shorts in a loose fit are also mid-thigh, at 21 inches (53 cm), with an elasticated waistband, a straight-cut hem and side pockets.
Both are described as mid-thigh, but the listed numbers differ, so measure a pair of shorts you own and like and compare, rather than relying on the word. A drawstring waist is the easier one to adjust. An elastic one is the more comfortable for a long day of travel.
What to wear them with
- A tee or a fitted top with a fuller skirt, to keep the proportions even.
- A loose linen shirt, tucked in or knotted at the waist, with shorts or a high waist skirt.
- A matching top for a set look. Our co-ord range includes skirt and shorts sets.
The honest limits of linen skirts and shorts
Linen creases at the lap and the seat after sitting, which is more obvious on a straight skirt than on a full one. A circle or flared skirt hides creases better. It is also a fabric that needs a cool wash and a low heat dry. See our honest answer on wrinkles. Our women's skirts and shorts are cut from medium weight OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified pure linen, except the blend skirt above, and OEKO-TEX means the cloth has been tested for harmful substances. For heat, read is linen good for hot, humid weather?
The verdict
For a skirt, pick the waist type you can live with, and then the length. For shorts, pick the length and the waist closure. Browse the whole range in linen bottoms, and send your measurements through the custom order page if no size fits.
Frequently asked questions
Which linen skirt is the most forgiving?
A wrap skirt or one with an elastic waist, because both adjust. A zipped skirt with no elastic is neater but needs an accurate waist measurement.
How long should a linen midi skirt be?
It sits between the knee and the ankle. Compare the listed length with a skirt you already own and with the model's height on the page.
Do linen shorts need ironing?
No, but they crease. Take them out of the wash slightly damp and smooth them by hand, or steam them.
Are linen skirts see-through?
Medium weight linen is less likely to go sheer than a lighter one, although paler colours show more than darker ones.
Can the length be changed?
Yes. We can make the hem shorter or longer. Tell us the length you want before you place the order.