Full skirts

A classic style

Why do full skirts keep coming back? Because they are almost universally flattering, as they accentuate the waist, and make it seem small by comparison. The only caveat can be when they achieve excessive bulk, so it is better to keep materials fluid.
It is definitely a very feminine style, so before investing in one, think if you're going to find yourself wearing it often or if it will sit in your wardrobe until you decide to give it away.

A (too) literal recreation would include ALL of the following:

1. Ladylike kitten-heeled shoes.
2. Red lipstick for a bombshell look or soft pink for the ladylike.
3. 1960s accessories: a pair of cat's-eye glasses; a wide, waist-cinching belt (or a skinny one added just for accent); a clutch in a pastel colour; a pair of gloves; a classic headscarf. 
4. Hair and makeup styles from the late 60's: winged eyes and Brigitte Bardot hairstyles, ie. sultry loose hair, a Bouffant, or a messy knot.
   

Do instead go for just one of the above or, better still, none at all with your full skirt, especially if you already wore this style in the 1960s, it will look like you never abandoned it!

The Literal Take on Full Skirts by Caroline Grant. A too literal recreation of any era is best left for the under 30s. Here the ladylike kitten-heeled shoes, baby pink lipstick, cat's-eye glasses and the retro bag and the square scarf) make for a strong 1960s déjà vu moment.

Hobbs Philippa Dress / Valentino Cashmere-Silk Cardigan / Valentino Handle Handbag / Ivanka Trump Liorah Pumps / Tarino Tarantino Resin Tulip Earrings / Cat's Eyes France Glasses (vintage) at Etsy / DVF Compact / Yves Saint Laurent Lipstick in Corail Légende / Yves Saint Laurent Nail Lacquer in Corail Divin.

The Modern Take on Full Skirts by Caroline Grant. The same dress, with edgier leopard-printed shoes, and a modern colour combination, plum and beige. The coat also has a marked A-line, to accomodate the volume of the skirt, although the open pleats are not the best option (I sometimes stitch them down to the point it is more flattering). The elbow-length gloves compensate for bare arms and keep cold drafts away. I have chosen a nude eye to set off plum lips: such a strong lip colour needs a very neutral eye, and to get it, I have used the Naked 2 palette by Urban Decay, which is just perfect. Nude sheer tights, of course.

Hobbs Philippa Dress / L.K. Bennett Danisi Double-breasted Coat / Hispanitas Handbag / Hobbs Alana Pumps / Kendra Scott Virginia Earrings / Kendra Scott Electra Bracelets / Tom Ford Lipstick in Bruised Plum / Urban Decay Eyeshadow Palette in Nude 2.

MORE?

• What are full skirts?
• Full skirts for formal events