It is a silhouette that can work for just about anyone for a variety of occasions.
By LAUREN PADILLA
Longmeadow High
A few weeks ago, my friend Jordan and I were sitting on the patio of a café, people watching. Absentmindedly, I commented on one of the fashion trends I’d noticed. Little did I know that my observation would lead way into a confusing and rather frustrating dialogue.
Lauren: Well, it looks like it’s the year of the mullet skirt.
Jordan: The what?
Lauren: The waterfall skirt.
Jordan: What?
Lauren: The high-low skirt
Jordan: Seriously, I have no idea what you’re talking about.
Lauren: Ugh! The skirt with the uneven hem — short in front, long in the back.
Jordan: Oh! I know what you’re talking about. What did you say it was called again?
Lauren: The mullet — never mind.
Seriously, there are about 10 different names for this skirt. However, all you need to know is that it is, and has been, one of the most sought-after trends of the season. Unlike so many styles, however, the high-low skirt makes perfect sense, especially for the younger generations. The maxi-length back allows the wearer to feel covered, yet the shorter front gives a more modern feeling.
The resultant products in this trend vary, as with all trends. Some of the cheaper variations feature an unfinished hem; as a result, the skirt usually looks as though someone took a pair of scissors to it, blindfolded, in the dark. On the more positive end of the spectrum, I’ve seen some absolutely gorgeous versions — give me silk-chiffon and a bias cut and I’m in.
It is not an easy trend tastefully worn, or translated into product line — a few missteps and it easily falls from tasteful to trashy.
The key to making the silhouette work is proportions. The popular pairing for teens and twenty-somethings seems to be the high-low skirt and a cropped T-shirt or shell.
This, however, can be difficult business. The skirt should have a high waist and close fit through the midsection; the shirt should be cropped just above the waist.
These proportions will help to add dimension to the figure. If the top is too long, the waist will be hidden. The effect will be a ruler-like silhouette, with the bust and waist measurements appearing equal.
I’m hope my illustrations clear away any confusions.
Although the target market for the high-low silhouette seems to be teens, I see no reason why it can’t work for women over 30.
Of course, the fabric and general silhouette should be more refined — but that’s not to say pulling together a “look” is any more difficult. Tuck in a silk shell, add a sash and there’s an evening ensemble. Pair it alongside an oxford shirt tied at the waist — with some diamond jewelry and a dark lip, and you’re the last word in elegance.
It is a silhouette that can work for just about anyone for a variety of occasions. So, next time you’re out shopping and see a high-low on display, don’t hesitate to try it on. Who knows? It may become your next wardrobe staple.