Skirting the Issue

I am totally obsessed with maxi skirts right now.  I know it's not a new trend by any means, but as my life has become more chaotic, I have found myself gravitating towards more effortless styles.  Translation: in a maxi skirt, I can bend over to pick up Harper--or the pile of goldfish crackers she has dumped out onto the floor--without a care in the world.  Yet, in addition to being completely easy and versatile, I feel that the maxi skirt has an inherent elegance that the more popular minis or even midis simply lack.  Here are a few of the maxis that I needwanthavetohave right now:

Shannon Floral Maxi Skirt
by Alice + Olivia
Available at Neiman Marcus

Unfortunately for me, I can't afford my taste--or the Shannon Floral Maxi Skirt by Alice + Olivia that I have been coveting since I first laid eyes on it a month or so ago.  The subtle floral print reminds me of a watercolor painting, and the pale yellows and greens are the perfect colors for spring and summer and can be easily matched.  I can't even explain how much I need this skirt.  So I am willing to patiently wait for a sale, or for someone with buyer's remorse to put one on Ebay in my size...  Whichever comes first!  Fingers crossed.

Canyon Skirt by Lilly Pulitzer

I wasn't sure how I felt about the high-low hem at first, but I've given it some thought and really think it works.  As a girl who loves shoes, it's a plus to be able to show off your footwear with a long-skirted look.  Plus, it maintains the easy elegance of a classic maxi, with a bit of a fun twist.  The Canyon Skirt by Lilly Pulitzer is my favorite high-low skirt to date, with its punchy, preppy pattern that's made in soft, beachy jersey.  I think flip-flops are a must here.

FP One Patchwork Maxi
by Free People

I love the bohemian vibe of this Patchwork Maxi from Free People.  The cool blues and aquas remind of the ocean, and the contrasting patterns and textures all work together.  Plus, each section has a raw, frayed edge that gives the skirt a casual, almost vintage feel.  If only I had tickets to Coachella this year. 

Clearly, I have my shopping list made!