The Skirt That Started It All: Styling My Favorite Maroon Mini Three Ways

I bought this skirt on a first date. The kind where you meet someone new and decide to go thrifting, just to see what happens. We ended up at a Burlington, of all places. I pulled this maroon linen skirt off the rack and tried it on right over my jeans. It worked, so I bought it.

It became a fast favorite. I’d just moved to a new city, and this skirt ended up being one of those pieces I’d throw on when I wanted to feel put-together but still like myself. I even wore it to my first local kink meetup later on. It’s been there for the fun, unfamiliar beginnings.

And practically? It’s the single most useful thing in my closet.

The Details That Matter

Let’s get specific. It’s a mid-thigh linen mini with a subtle, nubby texture—the kind that gives it character without being scratchy. It’s a simple, slightly flared shape in a rich maroon that’s not too wine-dark and not too bright.

The color’s the real star. It’s interesting enough to be a focal point, which means everything else in the outfit can be simple. My whole strategy is just giving it a good, neutral stage. Think greys, creams, blacks, and tans. Let the skirt do the talking.

Look 1: The Creative Professional

This is for the day you have a real meeting but still need to feel like yourself. Maroon can feel bold for an office, but you balance it with clean lines.

The Top: A crisp, black long-sleeve bodysuit or a fitted black turtleneck. The full sleeve and simple cut add instant polish.

The Layer: A tailored black blazer—something unstructured in linen or soft wool.

The Shoe: This is the anchor. Black strappy sandal wedges or sleek ankle boots with a low block heel. You look professional, but not like you’re playing dress-up.

The Vibe: Put-together, intentional, creative.

Where I’d Wear It: A client presentation at a coffee shop, or any workday where I want to look capable without sacrificing personal style.

Look 2: The Effortless Weekend

For Saturday errands, bookstore browsing, or a casual market trip. This is about comfort, full stop, but keeping a little bit of cool.

The Top: A soft, worn-in black band tee or a simple heavyweight black t-shirt.

The Layer: A grey, drapey cardigan or an oversized denim jacket.

The Shoe: My default here is a pair of black canvas Champion Keds. They’re the ultimate equalizer. White sneakers work too.

The Vibe: Easy, comfortable, unbothered.

Where I’d Wear It: The weekend farmer’s market, dragging a tote bag through the comic shop, or meeting a friend for the kind of brunch where you order pancakes.

Look 3: The Night Out

This is the look for events, dates, or any night where you want to feel a little more dramatic. It’s my favorite way to wear it.

The Top: A cream-colored knit sleeveless crop top. The cream makes the maroon glow, and the knit adds a cozy texture against the linen.

The Layer: The secret weapon is a thin, longline grey overcoat (a duster length). It adds movement and a touch of mystery.

The Legwear: Thigh-high knit grey socks. They’re the cozy, unexpected detail.

The Shoe: Chunky-heeled tan ankle boots. The tan leather warms up the whole look, and the chunkier heel means you can actually dance or stand all night.

The Vibe: Intentional, textured, softly edgy.

Where I’d Wear It: A moody cocktail bar, a queer dance night, or a dinner where you want the outfit to be part of the conversation.

Why This Works

You could call this a styling challenge, but for me, it’s just how I get dressed. My approach is pretty simple: find the pieces you genuinely love—the ones with a good fit, a color that just does something for you—and then wear them everywhere.

It’s not about having a closet full of clothes. It’s about having a closet full of possibilities built around a few great favorites. It’s sustainable, it’s personal, and honestly, it makes mornings a lot easier. You stop staring at a rack of clothes and start thinking, “What’s the day asking for?” and reaching for your favorite thing that fits the bill.

This skirt is a reminder that the best pieces aren't just about fabric. They're the ones that fit right into your life, wherever it takes you.

What’s your version of this skirt? What’s the one piece you keep building outfits around?