A shopping guide to the best … printed skirts

Find the right print – be it floral, abstract or animal – and the printed skirt can become a regular in your wardrobe. Surprisingly versatile, it can be matched with a complementary colour, downplayed with more muted tailoring or, for the real fashion-approved interpretation, contrasted with a different print on top.

Renting is a way to take advantage of the imaginative prints produced by high-end designers without committing to price tags. Dig into rich florals or try brands that made their name with prints, such as Pucci.

Print is a genre that vintage excels at – retro prints are all the rage this season. Look for bold florals, classic paisleys and curios from the 80s. But take your time to look: it’s worth shopping around for a retro print that fits your personal style. Finally, combine with something minimal and modern to bring it into the 21st century.

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Buy

Red knee-length, £69, Baukjen.com
Made from ethical Lenzing, this skirt is ideal for a day-to-night look.

Green snake print, £42, Johnlewis.com
Style with chunky black boots and an oversize knit.

Brown wrap floral, £195, by Usisi Sister, from Net-a-Porter.com
Opt for a longline wrap skirt and wear with chunky loafers.

Rent

Orange and pink floral, from £79, by Ghost, from thedevout.com
Add cream boots to a springlike skirt – perfect for transitioning into autumn.

Bold floral with hearts, from £37, by Henry Holland, from Hurrcollective.com
Wear a quirky pop print with colourful sandals for evenings out.

Purple and grey, from £14, by Pucci, from mywardrobehq.com
A graphic print will work well with a blazer.

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Thrift

Belted floral, £30, peekaboovintage.com
A bold floral print will look eye-catching at an autumn party. Add a silk cami.

Fish print, £25, beyondretro.com
Rummage for fun prints in vintage shops: wear this skirt with a white shirt and gold hoops.

Red paisley, £60, by Miu Miu, from cudoni.com
Wear a contrasting plaid shirt with paisley for a cool clash of prints.