A Cut Editor’s Search for the Perfect Low-Waisted Maxi Skirt

Our goal at the Cut Shop is to make you feel confident about what to spend your money on, whether it’s an investment or a high-street must-have. And this time around, it’s all about the best low-waisted maxi skirts for summer. The criteria? One that is versatile enough for all our summer activities and breathable enough to keep sweat stains at bay. Below, find out which low-waisted maxi skirts made the cut from our shopping writer/editor, Hanna Flanagan.

This is a winner, f0lks. The viscose material drapes just as beautifully as silk but feels even more breathable and lightweight. In my experience, it’s nearly impossible to sweat while wearing this skirt! The ruched drop-waist elongates my body, which I love. It also makes this skirt seem more interesting and unique than others in my closet. Style it with a simple white tank for an effortlessly cool summer outfit. It’s quite long, so consider sizing down if you’re petite. Overall rating: 10/10.

Even though I’m probably the most excited about this maxi from Leset, I’m knocking it down one spot because the sheer fabric makes it much less versatile than some of the other skirts on this list. (I’ll definitely be wearing it on the weekends and to the beach, but it’s not exactly office-appropriate.) The delicate, linen-blend material has tiny sequins knitted throughout, creating a subtle shimmery effect that looks absolutely gorgeous in natural sunlight. I also love the elastic waistband; not only is it comfortable, it also gives this a bit more shape at the hips than other column maxi skirts. Overall rating: 9/10.

Don’t let the wool-blend material scare you off; it provides stiffness and structure without adding warmth, so this skirt is great for year-round wear. While most maxis on the market are flowy and loose-fitting, this one feels more sleek and sophisticated, thanks to the tailored silhouette, side pockets, and front-button closure. Think of it as the more fashionable version of your classic work pants. Consider sizing down if you prefer a snug fit (I ordered my usual size 4 and found that it hangs off the hips a bit). Overall rating: 8/10.

If you see me out and about this summer, there’s a good chance I’ll be wearing this set. The skirt is oversized with a drawstring closure, which means you can cinch it nice and tight to create more shape and define the waistline. I like the fact that I can show off my favorite sandals when I wear this maxi, since it hits above the ankles. And while I wouldn’t recommend wearing this in the fall or winter, it’s definitely a good summer basic for park days, beach hangs, and outdoor happy hours. Overall rating: 7/10.

I’ve never been a ribbed skirt girl — the form fit always draws attention to the fact that I have no curves — but this one might have converted me. It’s not skin-tight like others I’ve tried, and the material is pretty forgiving. The cotton and modal blend fabric is buttery soft but still breathable enough for summer. And even though this maxi is meant to sit low below the hips, I think it looks just as good worn high-waisted. Overall rating: 8/10.

This is a departure from my usual style. I tend to gravitate towards simple silhouettes with minimal details or embellishments. But I actually really like the volume this maxi skirt provides, especially when paired with a form-fitting top. It’s slouchy and billowy and incredibly comfortable, although I could do without the tie-detailing at the hem. Also, this skirt gets bonus points because it looks great with an oversized sweater, so I can wear it in the fall and winter months as well. Overall rating: 6/10.

Silk or satin maxi skirts are a wardrobe essential. I’m a firm believer that everyone needs at least one in their closet. Not only do they go with everything, but they can also be dressed up or down and worn all year-round. If you’re on the hunt for an affordable low-waisted one, this satin skirt from ASOS is a great option. It drapes nicely and the slim fit is comparable to other more expensive alternatives, plus it’s available in several different colors and patterns. Sure, it may not hold up as well as a 100 percent silk maxi skirt (only time will tell!) but for $50, that’s a risk I’m willing to take. Overall rating: 7/10.

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