Before we get into it, I promise you dear reader, there’s no jeans hate here. We’re loud and proud fans of the iconic staple, from classic straight-leg pairs to embracing bold new barrel-leg styles. But, we'll admit, our daily denim rotation can feel a little stale, especially now that we've finally reached spring. With a new season comes a desire for a wardrobe switch-up, right?
If you're feeling the same way but equally don't want to ditch your beloved denim, how about a swap to this season's penchant for the denim midi skirt? This compelling alternative has risen in popularity over the last few years, with designers fully backing the trend in 2025 from the likes of Acne Studios to Michael Kors. For SS26 Coach opted for a true blue, full-body pleated skirt with frayed hem, and whilst Dries Van Noten is looking ahead, showcasing a slit denim maxi skirt for AW26, their modern take on cool-girl workwear feels very trans-seasonal.
As versatile as their trouser counterpart, denim midi skirts can be found in every cut, colour and wash, ready to be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. The street style set prove they are an easy base to work any outfit around and will easily slot into your existing wardrobe. Paired with a tucked-in blouse or crisp striped shirt, an A-line midi skirt compared to jeans will give you a more polished look ideal for the office, but still just as comfy. For balmy weekends filled with brunch dates or strolling markets, throw on a tank top and some fun ballet flats, and you've built yourself 2026's answer to the off-duty model uniform.
As someone whose wardrobe does rely quite heavily on denim, I love to experiment with different designs. The silhouette I have my eye on - and one that suits our current climes - is the column denim skirt. This cut works really well in a maxi length without it feeling too swamped, and can be styled with chunky boots when the April showers hit, or ballet flats if we're treated to some sun - perfect for this unreliable time of year.
On my search, I found Next's denim maxi column skirt, which at just £35 feels like a steal to achieve my dream denim aesthetic. With rave 5-star reviews from happy customers, this easy-to-wear style is also available in an hourglass silhouette, and goes up to a size UK 24. As well as offering longer lengths for us tall girls. We. Love. Inclusive. Sizing!
For a change from jeans, shop some of our favourite denim skirts below:
Marks & Spencer Pure cotton denim asymmetric midi wrap skirt
Sophie Leen is the Bookings Editor for Cosmopolitan UK and Women's Health UK. She specialises in creating fashion and shopping content across both digital and print platforms, as well as producing all of our fashion editorial photoshoots, which have included our digital cover with Olly Alexander and our curve influencer’s letter to the high street story. Sophie also looks after our Try Before You Train franchise where our team have tested and reviewed over 100 gymwear items.
