Making a Case for Fall Satin Skirts (& A Roundup)

fall satin skirt outfit

Satin skirts are an unexpected item I’ve collected my fair share of over the years. Not only do they add a feminine, tactile twist to any look, but they’re easy to style with separates in both casual and dressy outfits when I’m not in the mood for jeans.

Even though I wear them year round, autumn is the time for slinky silks and smooth satins, and most designers release one or two glossy fall satin skirts with their F/W collections in anticipation of holiday style.

While I am looking forward to dressing them up later in the year, my very favorite season to wear satin skirts is right now—in the heart of fall.

fall satin skirt and boots
natalie yerger wearing fall satin skirt outfit with lee mathews silk skirt sezane blouse sezane belt and knee high boots

Making a Case for the Satin Skirt

I guess you could say I’m making a case for silk and satin skirts in fall!

Especially in a neutral tone, like black, beige, white, or chocolate brown, satin skirts are a wardrobe workhorse.

Just like a tried and true pair of denim brings a familiar hug to any outfit, a satin skirt brings easy romance to any separate, from crisp blouses to casual t-shirts.

Fall Satin Skirts

Below, see a selection of my favorite fall satin skirts to shop this year. All of these will add a touch of luxe to your wardrobe, whether dressed up or down throughout the season!

fall satin skirt outfit idea
lee mathews satin skirt with boots

Outfit Details: Sezane Blouse, Lee Mathews Skirt (similar, less expensive here), Sezane Belt, KHAITE Tote (similar, less expensive here), Boots (old, similar here)

How I’m Styling Satin Skirts this Fall

Since most of us work from home these days, lustrous fabrics often get overlooked in favor of more obviously casual pieces. While it’s true that fall satin skirts easily fit in at date night, family photos, and events, I promise they’re right at home in casual looks, too.

A few of my favorite casual fall satin skirt outfits:

  • A long sleeve tee and sneakers
  • An oversized sweater and flats
  • A sweater tank, blazer, and ankle booties

And when you’re ready to dress it up, try:

  • A statement blouse and stiletto booties
  • A fall blazer cinched with a thin belt and knee high boots
  • A fitted cashmere sweater, pumps, and a double breasted blazer
fall silk skirt with blouse and boots
fall satin skirt outfit idea

Are Fall Satin Skirts in Style?

Yes, satin skirts are still in style! I don’t think they ever went out, but certain hemlines are having a moment.

This year we’re seeing traditional midi lengths in addition to playful minis. I’m also seeing maxi lengths that will work beautifully when you want to add a touch of drama (I’ll be wearing one for Thanksgiving dinner).

Choosing a Satin Skirt for Your Fall Wardrobe

Fabrics to Look For

When I’m shopping for a satin skirt for fall the first thing I look at is fabrication. Synthetic fabrics tend to be thin and show every curve, which may create a need for shapewear.

That being said, I have had great luck with acetate (as seen in this Vince slip skirt and this Max Mara Leisure skirt, both of which I adore!). It’s a high quality man-made fabric that’s honestly hard to distinguish from the real thing.

The Lee Matthews skirt in this post is 100% silk and the difference is hardly noticeable. However, I see a huge difference between real satin and my Amazon slip skirt and MANGO satin skirt (both are polyester).

I still love and recommend the more affordable options, but I think it’s important to know what your money is getting you!

Waist Placement and Design

Waist design is also key! Skirts with side zippers and elasticized waist bands sit the most snug. Back zippers (or poorly made zippers in general) cause bunching and are a distraction if your top is tucked.

Side Slits, Pleats, and Gathering

Other details to pay attention to are side slits (these aren’t necessary but create nice movement), the hemline shape (asymmetric is beautiful but will go with less in your wardrobe), gathering and pleats (both also create gorgeous drape but are less versatile than a minimalist cut).

Which Fall Satin Skirt Length Is Best?

As far as length, there’s no right or wrong! I find midi length satin skirts to be the most versatile for fall because they go with a wide variety of shoes (much like ankle jeans vs. cropped and full-length jeans).

However, mini skirts and maxi skirts are just as stunning when styled proportionally.

how to wear a satin skirt in fall
fall satin skirt outfit with blouse and belt