5 Ways To Wear A Mini

With the return of Y2K fashion, it was always inevitable that micro hemlines would be back on the fashion agenda. And, as hemlines have crept higher and higher at the spring/summer 2022 runways, they swiftly started trending on our Instagram and TikTok feeds, too. The appeal of the mini lies in its unapologetic sexiness; its sense of liberation. Look no further than New York wunderkind LaQuan Smith, whose second-skin, super-short dresses are made for having fun in – and this season, there is something for everyone. So, if you baulk at the thought of revealing silhouettes, rest assured there are demure options, courtesy of designers such as Simone Rocha, who put her signature capacious stamp on things to temper thigh-skimming dresses. Still wondering how to style this season’s minis? Read on…

Taking up minimum suitcase space, minis are a vacation no-brainer and ideal for showing off sun-kissed legs. We love Rhode’s floral-print skirt – its ruched details nod to the Y2K fashion trend while its pretty ‘Forget Me Not’ motif has a timeless appeal. Style it with a simple tank top and gladiator sandals for days spent beachside, then dress it up with heels and gold hoop earrings when the sun sets.

For a sophisticated take on short hemlines, Max Mara’s minimalist smock dress is a divine choice. This figure-skimming silhouette is cut to drape elegantly and comes with pockets, making it a chic and practical piece. Style with sleek penny loafers and a structured shoulder bag to complement its clean lines.

It’s easy to see why everyone from Rihanna to Ciara loves LaQuan Smith: his daring dresses are destined for the dance floor. Amsterdam-based Gauge81 also excels in clothes for reveling in. The label’s ‘Tome’ LBD comes with a lustrous gold halterneck, meaning you can go light on other accessories – a chunky bracelet, glitzy shoulder bag and party shoes are all you need for a cool but impactful evening look.

The skirt suit has stood the test of time as an understated yet assertive closet staple. Alex Perry’s chocolate-colored version conjures up images of ’80s power dressing with its glossy satin-crepe mini and matching sharply tailored blazer. The jacket’s long-line silhouette balances the proportions of the skirt, adding a cool, oversized effect. Lean into its preppy vibe and style it with loafers or, to dial up the drama after hours, add a pair of pointed stilettos.

If snug-fitting silhouettes are simply not for you, consider Simone Rocha’s dreamy shirt dress instead. With its roomy fit, oversized pointed collar, lantern sleeves and painterly floral print, it is a stunning example of the Irish designer’s idiosyncratic fashion nous. Modern pearls will complement it perfectly, while chunky knee-high combat boots will toughen the look up.