Thursday, June 13, 2013

High Low skirt - an undecided mind, or another option?

I recently purchased a High Low black jersey skirt as a casual option for my upcoming cruise, and just to have another piece for what I call my weekend wear. The High Low skirt or dress has in fact been in existence since the 1950's as a Balanciaga design. The High Low silhouette like any other design comes in many variations. I like it for summer because you have the lower hem of a maxi skirt, as well as a higher hem in the front to catch that summer breeze. I also like it because you get to show a little leg, which is always a good thing. For hem control be mindful of the designer or line you purchase from. Stores for younger women may have a much higher hemline than say those targeted to the more mature set.

The skirt I purchased:
Ann Taylor Jersey High Low Hem Skirt - $68

I love this skirt because it is different in terms of the asymmetrical cut being more shallow than many High Low designs you see. Also the material is sooooo comfortable. This skirt is flattering on all body types and comes in three colors. I styled a client with a fuller waist and pear shaped proportions in this skirt and she looked great. You may think this length is not a good one because it cuts you off at the knee. The reason this works is because of the High Low hem. True, the length in the back may be bad, but it's in the back so in fact it provides a little something extra as well as a bit of modesty for the shorter length in the front, which is in fact a very flattering length.

Here is another one that is a bit more dressy but beautiful and again, a very flattering design:

bebe High Low Skirt - $80
This is a much more extreme High Low hem than the first, but I think it's sexy, and fun and it works for a few reasons. The High hem in the front has a little sexy, but it's still low enough to leave something to the imagination. This is great for younger woman, or a mature woman with great legs. Also the back cascades evenly down around the legs with soft pleating, so there is no tail effect. You can still wear a variety of style of shoes with this skirt, but it is not as casual as my purchase so accessorize accordingly

Now this one I'm not a fan of:

Asos Collection Skirt with High Low Hem
 I really don't like how high the hem in the front is. The extreme low back actually make the front seem shorter than the micor-mini it is. In this case there is no modesty. I feel even with the low back you still couldn't sit in this skirt because you'd have to worry too much about the front being exposed. This I believe is what critics mean when they say the High Low hem is for people who couldn't decide if they wanted to wear short or long, or in this case, ankle length or micro-mini. I also think the the extremely narrow design of the back creates a tail like silhouette which.... is a little costumey for my taste and just not cute.

That's the skinny on the High Low. Don't forget to follow us on twitter @amandastylesyou and please leave comments or questions. If there is a style challenge in your life, or a recent design or trend you have questions about, we are here to help.

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