There’s a concept that the Italians like to call “sprezzatura.” It means the art of nonchalance, a studied sense of making the difficult look easy. While writer Baldassare Castiglione first used the word in his 1528 book to denote ideal behavior for noble courtiers, it’s since been adopted in the fashion world as an aspirational way of dressing. To dress with sprezzatura is to look effortlessly put-together—and one way to do that this season is with a long silk or satin skirt.
Whether you opt for a monochrome maxi or a printed midi, these skirts give an elegant finish to any look and are endlessly versatile. Dress up Cami’s lacy red style with a fluid blouse and some kitten heels, or dress down The Great’s floral-printed skirt with a knit cardigan and ballet flats. Go bold with a polka-dotted pattern or keep it demure with classic black. Splurge, keep it under $100, or opt for something in between—there’s a style for every budget.
If you’re ready to add a long satin or silk skirt to your wardrobe, look no further than our edit of the best ones below. Sprezzatura awaits.
Pair Anine Bing’s sleek navy style with its matching cami for a complete look that’s the true embodiment of easy elegance. The navy is ultra-versatile; if a co-ord isn’t your think, you can wear this skirt with white, black, or a colorful top.
You don’t need to dig deep into your wallets to participate in the trend. Princess Polly’s classic polka-dotted skirt brings the glamour without a hefty price tag.
Cami NYC is the master of silky essentials, and while normally its known for its namesake camisoles, its bottoms are not to be overlooked. This bold bias-cut skirt proves that.
The Great’s country-inspired take comes in the form of a pull-on ruffled number. An elastic waist adds convenient comfort, and the drapey silk twills gives an airy lift to the style. Dive full into the Western look with a pair of boots from the brand’s latest collaboration with Stetson.
Composed of 100% washable silk, Quince’s maxi skirt is as easy to care for as it is to wear.
A playful print meets colorful lace in this unexpected combination that somehow works. Style this skirt strategically: we’d recommend opting for the matching top and cardigan or pairing it with a color that’s already in the skirt (think: soft brown, baby blue, or garnet).
Dôen’s lace-adorned chocolate brown skirt is feminine, flirty, and also entirely functional. Whether you wear it to the office or for a night on the town, it can transition between either seamlessly.
This cream skirt is finished with a lacy hem for a refined look. In the summer and spring, throw on a camisole and light jacket with it, but in the fall and winter, we’d advise turning to a cozy knit.
The Park’s maxi skirt emphasizes quiet luxury through its stretchy silk composition and natural drape. It doesn’t do too much, but its high-quality design and flattering cut earns it a spot on this list.
Headed to a fall or winter wedding? Sau Lee’s printed skirt makes a flowery statement.
Alternatively, Alice + Olivia’s Maeve skirt is another great option for a wedding or formal occasion. It’s romantic and slightly whimsical, but the lace trimming and printed intricacies ground it.
Simple and straightforward, Frame’s midi skirt is timeless in its appeal. It’s effectively a blank canvas for styling purposes: You’ll find there a few things a black midi skirt does not go with.
Scanlan Theodore is beloved for its contemporary—and chic—interpretations of modern workwear, and this skirt illustrates why. The neutral hue contrasted with a pop of color and two texture juxtaposition is eye-catching.
If you’re up for the splurge, Isabel Marant’s slip skirt exudes a luxe bohemian quality. The asymmetric cut creates intrigue while emphasizing footwear, so give careful thought to what shoes you style with this skirt. A combat boot for daily wear or a strappy heel for an occasion are two no-brainer combos.