How to Style a Tulle Skirt?
A tulle skirt is often associated with the image of a ballerina, but that doesn't mean you should shy away from styling this new fashion trend for the spring-summer season. You can easily adapt a tulle skirt to suit your personal style and aesthetic—even if you want to avoid looking like a little girl at a school recital.
So how do you style a tulle skirt the right way and create a successful look? Whether you're choosing a bold tulle skirt to make a statement in true Carrie Bradshaw fashion or aiming for a more classic vintage vibe, explore the following styling options that will help you seamlessly incorporate this trend into your seasonal wardrobe.
Why are tulle skirts so popular?
Tulle skirts have been a favorite among women for centuries and continue to remain popular today. These skirts are made from layers of soft mesh fabric that create a voluminous and airy look. They come in various styles, lengths, and colors, making them perfect for almost any occasion.
Creating a classic tulle skirt outfit is easy because of its versatility. For casual outings, pairing it with a simple T-shirt or a denim jacket gives off a relaxed vibe. For more formal events like weddings or special occasions, tulle skirts pair beautifully with a blouse or blazer. Accessories like jewelry and a clutch can complete the look.
Investing in a classic tulle skirt is worth it because it never goes out of style. Unlike other trendy pieces, this garment is timeless and can be worn for years. It's also versatile enough to be styled for a variety of occasions, making it a practical wardrobe staple.
Many celebrities have been spotted wearing classic tulle skirts, proving their popularity across generations. Carrie Bradshaw from *Sex and the City* famously wore a tutu in the show's opening credits. Taylor Swift was photographed in a tulle skirt in one of her music videos. Fashion bloggers like Blair Eadie of Atlantic-Pacific have also been seen wearing tulle skirts in their street style looks.
Printed Tulle Skirts
Tulle skirts have been a fashion staple for decades, but in recent years, printed tulle skirts have taken the fashion world by storm. Printed tulle skirts are a fun and playful way to add personality to any outfit. Whether you're going for a romantic look or aiming to create a bold vibe, there's a printed tulle skirt out there for you. In this article, we'll discuss how printed tulle skirts can add individuality to your style, showcase some trendy prints, share styling tips, and explain how to properly care for and maintain a printed tulle skirt.
One of the biggest benefits of a printed tulle skirt is the personality it brings to your outfit. A plain tulle skirt can be beautiful, but a printed version adds a bit of flair and excitement. Depending on the print, it can make a bold statement or simply add a touch of intrigue. It's also a great way to express your personal style without saying a word.
Midi and Maxi Tulle Skirts
One of the main advantages of midi and maxi tulle skirts is that they offer a more formal and elegant appearance than shorter skirts or dresses. Often associated with ballerinas and princesses, these skirts let any woman feel like true royalty. Whether you're attending a wedding, cocktail party, or a chic dinner, a tulle skirt will help you stand out from the crowd and exude sophistication.
But don't let their formal reputation fool you—midi and maxi tulle skirts can absolutely be worn in more casual settings depending on how you style them. Pairing them with a simple T-shirt or a denim jacket can give them a more relaxed and effortless vibe while still maintaining their charm and uniqueness.
Tops to wear with tulle skirts
With a Sweater
A soft and cozy sweater pairs beautifully with a voluminous tulle skirt. This is especially a great option for cool summer days. It's a lovely outfit for a romantic date—just be sure to choose softer tones. A blue, pink, or beige tulle skirt combined with a white or cream sweater creates a sense of femininity and lightness.
With a Denim Shirt
Pairing a denim shirt with a tulle skirt can create a smart-casual look. The eclectic mix of materials like tulle and denim looks stylish and interesting. This outfit is perfect for shopping, a walk around the city, or meeting up with friends.
With a Classic Shirt
A light and airy tulle skirt looks great when paired with a classic shirt. For footwear, you can go with heels, sandals, ballet flats, and more. Complete the look with a clutch or a cute handbag.
With a T-Shirt or Cropped Top
To create a casual look with a tulle skirt, pair it with a cropped top in a contrasting or matching color, or with a simple t-shirt. Feel free to experiment with skirts of any length depending on your mood and the occasion.
With a Blazer
For a chic everyday outfit, style a midi or maxi tulle skirt with a blazer. If the skirt is multicolored, choose a blazer in one of the skirt's tones. Mixing contrasting shades is also a fashionable and stylish option. This type of outfit works well both for the office and for casual wear.
With a Luxurious Lace Top
The most delicate and airy combination is a lace top paired with a tulle skirt. This elegant outfit is perfect for a wedding guest. Pay close attention to the skirt length—it's best if it reaches the knee to avoid looking overly playful. The lace top shouldn't be sheer, or it should be worn over a camisole.
How to wear a tulle skirt casually
1. Pair with a Fitted Top
The key to styling a long tulle skirt is balancing its volume with a fitted top. This creates a flattering silhouette and prevents your outfit from looking overwhelming. When choosing a top to wear with a tulle skirt, go for something tailored or form-fitting—this could be a tank top, blouse, or sweater. Avoid oversized or baggy pieces, as they can distort the shape of the skirt.
One popular way to wear a long tulle skirt is with a simple fitted tank top. This works especially well if the skirt is full and voluminous. A sleek tank provides contrast to the fluffiness of the skirt, creating a beautiful balance. You can also choose a tank top with details like lace or beading to add extra texture and interest to your look.
Another option is to wear a fitted crop top with a long tulle skirt. This is a great way to highlight the waist and create a feminine silhouette. A crop top can be paired with a high- or low-waisted tulle skirt depending on your comfort level. For a more formal look, opt for a crop top with sleeves or embellishments like sequins or embroidery.
If you prefer a more covered-up look, try pairing your tulle skirt with a fitted blouse or a button-up shirt. Choose a blouse that is tailored or has a defined waistline to complement the skirt's volume. You can also tuck the blouse into the skirt to create a polished and refined outfit. Add a statement necklace or earrings to complete the look.
Lastly, if you want to wear a sweater with a long tulle skirt, go for a fitted or cropped style. A chunky knit adds texture and warmth, while a fitted cardigan gives a more refined appearance. You can also add a belt to emphasize your waist and enhance your silhouette.
2. Add Jewelry
One of the most important things to consider when styling a long tulle skirt is the overall look you're going for. Are you aiming for something more classic and elegant, or are you going for a fun, playful vibe? No matter your preference, one thing remains true: statement jewelry can elevate any outfit!
Statement jewelry refers to pieces that demand attention. It's bold, eye-catching, and often features large or intricate details. These accessories are usually meant to stand out on their own, without the need for layering with additional pieces. Here are a few tips on how to incorporate statement jewelry into your outfit with a long tulle skirt:
1. Keep it Simple
When it comes to statement jewelry, less is often more. If you're wearing a long tulle skirt, chances are it's already the focal point of your outfit. That means your statement jewelry should be thoughtful and not overpowering. This doesn't mean you have to compromise on style—just choose pieces that complement rather than compete with your skirt.
For example, if you're wearing a long black tulle skirt, pair it with a chunky silver necklace and matching earrings. Alternatively, if your tulle skirt is a soft pastel pink, go for a gold bracelet and delicate earrings.
2. Go Big or Go Home
One of the best things about statement jewelry is that it allows you to make an impact without piling on too many accessories. So if you're looking to stand out, opt for one big, bold piece. This could be a chunky necklace, a pair of oversized earrings, or a standout bracelet.
When choosing a statement piece, make sure it aligns with the tone of your outfit. For example, if you're wearing a floral-print long tulle skirt, try a colorful necklace that picks up hues from your skirt for a coordinated look.
3. Experiment with Color
One of the great things about tulle skirts is that they come in a wide range of colors—from soft pinks and blues to bold reds and greens. That means you have plenty of room to play with statement jewelry in colors that either complement or contrast your skirt.
For instance, if you're wearing a long white tulle skirt, you can experiment with bright jewelry to add a pop of color to your outfit. On the other hand, if you're wearing a black tulle skirt, silver or gold jewelry can create a striking contrast against the darker tone.
3. Choose the Right Shoes
1. Go for Heels
Heels are a classic choice when pairing with long tulle skirts. They instantly elevate any outfit, adding sophistication and glamour. Choose a heel height that is comfortable for you. If you're not used to wearing high heels, opt for a lower heel or wedge. For a more formal look, choose stilettos or pointed-toe shoes. These styles elongate the legs and create an elegant silhouette. When selecting a color, consider matching your shoes with the skirt or going for a neutral tone, like black, nude, or metallic.
2. Try Ankle Boots
If you want to add an edge to your tulle skirt outfit, try pairing it with ankle boots. This unexpected combination creates a unique and stylish look. Choose ankle boots with a chunky heel or platform to balance out the delicate nature of the tulle. You can also play with texture by opting for suede or leather boots. This works especially well if your tulle skirt has a more relaxed vibe. For a dressier look, choose simple black pointed-toe ankle boots.
3. Sneakers for a Casual Twist
If you want to wear a long tulle skirt in a more casual setting, sneakers are a great option. This combination creates a fun and playful look that's perfect for running errands or meeting friends for brunch. Choose a pair of low-top sneakers in neutral colors, like white or gray. Avoid anything too loud or colorful, as it could clash with the lightness of the tulle. This combination works particularly well if your tulle skirt has a looser fit.
4. Sandals for Summer
In warm weather, sandals are a great pairing with long tulle skirts. They'll keep your feet cool and add a summery feel to your look. Opt for minimalist-designed sandals to avoid overwhelming the tulle. Gladiator sandals with straps pair well with a voluminous tulle skirt, while simple slide sandals look great with a more fitted tulle skirt. Stick to neutral tones like brown or black so the focus remains on the standout part of your outfit.
5. Ballet Flats for Comfort
If you're looking for comfortable yet stylish footwear, ballet flats are a great option. They'll add femininity to your outfit while being practical for everyday wear. Choose a pair with a pointed toe to elongate your legs and balance out the volume of the tulle. If you're concerned about foot pain, look for flats with additional cushioning or support. This style pairs well with both fitted and voluminous tulle skirts.
4. Play with Prints and Patterns
1. Keep It Simple
The key to wearing a long tulle skirt is to keep the rest of your outfit simple. Since the skirt is already a statement piece, avoid overwhelming your look with too many other details or accessories. A simple solid-colored t-shirt or tank top pairs perfectly with a tulle skirt. You don't necessarily need heels; flat sandals or sneakers can make the outfit more casual.
2. Add Bold Colors
Classic black or white tulle skirts are timeless, but adding bold colors can make your outfit more playful and fun. A bright pink, blue, or red skirt paired with a neutral top can create a striking contrast and draw attention to your outfit. If you're not into bold colors, try pastel shades like lavender or light blue for a softer look.
3. Layer Up
Layering is a great way to make a tulle skirt more versatile. In the colder months, pair it with a cozy sweater or cardigan. A denim jacket or leather biker jacket can also add an edgy touch to your outfit. If you're wearing a sleeveless top, consider adding a lightweight scarf or shawl for extra coverage.
4. Mix Textures
Tulle skirts are known for their airy texture, but combining textures can add more depth and interest to your look. Try pairing the skirt with a chunky knit sweater or a silky blouse. A leather belt or statement necklace can also add sophistication to your outfit.
5. Play with Prints and Patterns
While tulle skirts are often seen as girly and cute, they can also look sharp and unexpected when paired with prints and patterns. A graphic t-shirt or striped top can create a contrast with the soft tulle. If you're feeling bold, try a leopard print or floral blouse to make a daring statement.