Overview
Poplin skirts come in all colors, prints and styles, from eye-catching minis to svelte pencil skirts. Although poplin material -- a strong textile of plain stitching that traditionally combined silk and worsted yarn, making ribs in the cloth -- is often associated with the spring, the fabric can be made from cotton, silk or winter-worthy wools, which makes it appropriate for different seasons. How you style your upper half when you wear a poplin skirt depends on silhouette, as a poplin skirt pairs with everything from country-inspired blouses to polished printed sweaters.
Printed Miniskirt
Poplin in a lively print can add punch to an outfit, particularly in a miniskirt. To be sure not to overwhelm the ensemble, try balancing a bright skirt with a neutral top. For example, if your skirt is a ménage of jeweled tones — like turquoise, mustard and fuchsia — pair it with a soft white or beige blouse. And don’t worry, you can always reintegrate an element of drama by throwing on a pair of turquoise kitten-heel pumps.
A-Line Skirt
A summer classic, the A-line poplin skirt is available in wonderfully neutral colors, such as khaki and olive green. For slightly more sophisticated leisure attire, incorporate international inspiration into your weekend outfit. Match the neutral skirt with a country-printed evergreen oxford (button-up shirt) and caramel color brogues (lace-up shoes) for a very British “Fox and Hound” look. Or borrow an idea from their neighbors across the English channel, with a French black-and-white-stripe blouse, prismatic scarf and a pair of ballet flats.
Full Circular Skirt
A toned-down throw-back to the voluminous skirts of the 1950s, a silk poplin skirt can be an elegant option for an intimate dinner party. To epitomize the spirit of the decade, pair a circular skirt with a white raglan sleeve, wrap around shirt. Raglan sleeves sometimes look like bat wings, as the sleeve and bodice are cut from the same piece of fabric. The wrap-around shirt will cinch in the waist, helping to give it a more slender appearance. Finish the look with a pair of black 3-inch stilettos.
Pencil Skirt
A poplin pencil skirt is a sophisticated bottom that hugs the hips and falls at a demure knee-level. For an updated fall look, choose a poplin skirt made out of wool, in rich colors such as saffron or burgundy. Match the skirt’s autumnal color with a printed sweater, choosing an argyle or bold graphic print. Then, draw attention to the waist with a thick belt in a complimentary color (Feel free to choose a bright hue). For an bit of continuity, finish the outfit with a platform pump in the same color family as the belt.
