Work Skirt Concerns - YouLookFab Forum

BACKGROUND INFO:

I'm job hunting & finding it super-hard to find non-jeans suitable for my shape and the potential interviews - and jobs - I hope to end up with. Being 5'1 and "curvy", skinny jeans have been lifesavers so far in life, but they just aren't appropriate for everything. I'd love to wear my jeans but I don't want to come off looking like a frump!

Instead, I found these. I rarely wear dresses of skirts, so I'm not entirely sure... I've ordered them, but I'm beginning to wonder if they're the kind of thing you'd want to wear to work? Being a late teen I'm hoping to find something in retail, front-of-desk, or right now I may potentially be joining a family-friend run business going to venues and offices promoting dumplings...

THE CONCERNS:

The first two fall about half an inch above my knee (I tried on my friend's one!) These I'm worried might be too short or casual, but the longer, midi and maxi skirts make me look like an overweight extra from the Shire. I gave up on buying a ballgown because of it...but that's another story.

The third, I bought similar in black, but this time idk if denim,
even if black is entirely appropriate. It's not the kind of thing I'd usually be all that comfortable in either. But maybe I just need to wear it and see?Judging by previous experiences with this store it'll probably sit an inch below my knee, which could be hemmed if needed.

Anyway, I'll post pictures of what they look like once they arrive.

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8 years ago

SarahTheWhite

Veteran

I think it is wonderful, and shows maturity, that you are taking such care with selecting your interview wardrobe. I would ordinarily discourage someone from the first two options (I have seen young women wear skirts like these at the length the models show in your photos that don't look work appropriate) but it sounds like they could be close enough to the top of your knee. I don't know what your weather is like, but I could picture the black one with black tights and black pumps and then a crisp button down top. I do feel your pain on the whole curvy issue when it comes to dress pants. I have a lot of trouble with that. One workaround, since you aren't as comfortable with skirts, would be to find a skinny pant in a thick fabric (so that it doesn't look like leggings) and wear more of a tunic length top. You might be able to find a cotton button down shirt that is long and covers the tighter areas of the pants so that you still get the silhouette that you like from the skinny jeans.

Best of luck on your job search. You sound like a thoughtful young woman that anyone would be fortunate to hire!

Aziraphale

I feel like the first two skirts are a bit girly for work, but then, you are young, so maybe it would look appropriate -- especially since they won't be as short on you as on the model.

I am the same height as you, and I find that the most professional-looking skirts on me are the more structured pencil ones that hit right at the knee or just below.

Sarah's suggestion about non-jean skinny pants is also an option. Have you heard of ponte knit pants?

Gigi

I don't know if the first two skirts are unprofessional per se, but I think they will emphasize your youth, as they have a younger vibe. If you want to look older and more professional, I agree with Aziraphale that pencil skirts are the way to go. However, since you are curvy, they will probably ride up (I am your height and curvy as well, and this is what happens to me). In that case, you could get the larger size that doesn't ride up, and then a tailor can take in the waist a bit. I've never had this done, but I've heard that it's quite easy.

Sal

It is hard working out what to buy when you are starting out in the workforce. Especially when you don't know where you will be working. I think the skirts at the lengths you describe will be just fine.

Do post some pics and we can help with styling.

unfrumped

The first 2 do skew skater-girlie but may the short length shown vs. how they will look on you.
some kind of stitched-down pleat can be more grown-up.
Also I ditto usually there is a pencil skirt out there, in one brand or another, not midi-length, that works for curvy and will work with untucked, upscale knit tops + a jacket.

Anonymous

I would go with the pencil skirt, as it looks more professional.

Gail

What about trying a couple of dresses that you could wear with a jacket or a cardigan. They are so many options out now that are fit and flare which would be comfortable too.

kkards

i think as a late teen looking for your 1st job, any of these would be appropriate.

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