What is a skort?
Skirt-shorts (skort) — is a hybrid wardrobe item that visually looks like a skirt, but is structurally shorts or has built-in shorts.
In international terminology, the answer to the question of what a skirt or shorts is called is the term "skort." This word is formed from the fusion of English words skirt (skirt) and shorts (shorts).
Historically, this item emerged in the early 20th century as an element of sports uniforms for tennis, golf, and cycling. This design provided freedom of movement and protection from accidental exposure while maintaining a traditional feminine silhouette.
Main types
Modern models of skorts differ in cut and purpose:
- Asymmetrical with a smell: In front they look like a skirt thanks to the additional fabric layer placed over the legs, and in the back they look like classic shorts.
- Hidden (tennis): a full-length short skirt, often pleated, with fitted elastic shorts sewn underneath.
- Costume: Strict styles made of dense fabrics (wool, tweed, gabardine) with pleats or tucks. They visually imitate a classic straight skirt or an A-line silhouette.
- Culottes: A longer version of the knee-length skort. It features wide, flared legs that create the illusion of a midi skirt when held still.
What to combine with
The styling of a skort depends on the material and cut of a particular model.
For a preppy look, pair a pleated tennis skirt with a V-neck knit vest, a white shirt, knee-high socks and loafers.
For a casual urban look, pair a denim or cotton skort with an oversized basic t-shirt tucked in and chunky sneakers.
For smart casual, a suit skirt-shorts made of tweed or wool are worn with an oversized jacket made of the same fabric, a turtleneck, and thick tights that match the shoes.
Evening wear calls for faux leather or satin styles. They're paired with a fitted bodysuit, a statement belt, and thigh-high boots.
