12 Boho Maxi Skirts to Wear Instead of Denim Shorts

On sweltering days, I can’t help but wonder: Who decided denim shorts were part of the quintessential summer outfit, anyway? For such a ubiquitous summer piece, the heavy fabric can lean a tad uncomfortable and (more often than not) results in unsticking sweaty thighs from various plastic chairs and restaurant booths. This time of year, we’re all ears for an unfussy—yet still fashion-minded—alternative, and it arrives in the form of a lightweight skirt from trend cycles past. Bohemian maxi skirts have made their way back into being a mainstay in celebrity street style and our social media feeds, and it’s about time we gave them the warm-weather recognition they deserve. Keep reading to learn more about the boho maxi skirt trend, and browse 12 on-trend styles to shop this season.

About the Trend

The bohemian skirt trend levels up an otherwise standard summer look—luckily, with minimal lift required. It resurrects the early-to-mid-2010s boho trend (think: Vanessa Hudgens’ go-to look), but reprises this aesthetic in a fresh, almost gossamer way. Consider this trend as more of a vibe than a defined set of design elements: We’ve recently glimpsed a range of dreamy fabric variations with mini, midi, and maxi hemlines, on celebrities including Taylor Swift and Paloma Elsesser. Ready to try it for yourself? Swap in a boho skirt whenever you’d typically wear a pair of denim shorts, such as at a music festival, grabbing brunch in the city, or taking a leisurely walk.

While the free-spiritedness of this skirt often takes center stage, don’t shy away from incorporating other current trends, too. Take inspiration from Daisy Edgar-Jones, who recently stepped out in a sheer, ethereal maxi dress (demonstrating the full fashion potential of a floaty, tiered ruffles). You might also consider pairing this skirt with of-the-moment bag charms, dainty silver anklets, and classic Birkenstock sandals for unexpected styling power. Read to discover 12 standout styles for embracing the boho skirt trend, including a range of colors, styles, and fits to complement every wardrobe.

The Best Boho Skirts to Shop

Madewell Crinkle Cotton Smocked Maxi Skirt

This summer, we’ve noticed an uptick in fitted basque waists, which brings a corset-like quality to skirts and dresses (exhibit A: the milkmaid sundress). Pair this classic detail with a smocked fabric, and you’ve got the foundational formula for a summer essential.

Lurelly Asteria Silk Skirt

Ethereal fairy vibes ahead: This month, try building your ensemble around this elegant chiffon skirt in an on-trend seafoam green hue. Accompany the style with an equally graceful top and delicate jewelry to match.

Eloquii Tiered Maxi Skirt

This classic style stands as a key example of summer’s most-coveted tiered skirt, complete with a bow at the waistline to pull it all together. Consider this straightforward staple piece as the foundation for your late summer outfits. 

American Eagle High-Waisted Chambray Maxi Skirt

Remember when chambray was everywhere in the 2010s? While button-down shirts were the material’s quintessential piece in that era, a modern way to bring its low-key vibes back is via—you guessed it—a boho maxi skirt. The tiered style here adds movement and a boost of sweetness, while the elastic waist ensures this is a definitively more comfortable alternative to your go-to cutoffs.

H&M Tiered Skirt with Eyelet Embroidery

This precious, budget-friendly pick brings the slightest hint of boho flair in a mini-skirt-sized package. Details like wide ruffles and eyelet embroidery play further into the aesthetic.

Dôen Sebastiane Skirt

Looking for a boho maxi skirt that feels just right for a dressier occasion? Try reaching for this exceptionally detailed skirt from Dôen, which features a more structured A-line silhouette and a sweet scalloped hem.

Sndys Tahlia Maxi Skirt

This lightweight, tiered skirt is ideal for stashing in your carry-on for a beachside vacation or dinner with the girls. We’d envision pairing it with a graphic tee, tried-and-true sandals, and perhaps even a woven handbag.

Free People Vienna Midi Skirt

This summer’s trending skirt encapsulates an unbothered and carefree vibe, which you can easily achieve with a kerchief hemline and gathered ruffles. Free People’s mid-length variation, complete with mini tie details, runs more on the coquette side.

Hanifa Leilani Pleated Skirt

Hanifa brings a soft, romantic approach to the boho maxi skirt trend. Try pairing this ruffled version with a trusted pair of cowboy boots or color block sneakers to play up a contrast. Alternatively, don a pair of kitten heels for a more all-out occasion.

Boden Lorna Tiered Maxi Skirt

You’ve likely encountered the bohemian skirt mostly in shades of off-white, but don’t write off this bold and colorful patchwork print. With a little layering (and a well-coordinated color palette), this funky statement piece easily transitions into the cooler months.

BDG Asymmetrical Splice Skirt

Don’t be afraid to embrace the unabashed personality of a boho skirt. This mini offers a fresh shape (and prime styling opportunity)—plus asymmetrical hemlines have been trending on TikTok and beyond. When temps soar, pair this attention-grabbing skirt with a lacy cami to match pace.

Abercrombie & Fitch Asymmetrical Ruffle Maxi Skirt

Searching for dreamy vibes? Look no further. This fitted, ruffled skirt plays best with a coordinating white top and on-point accessories, like a satin head scarf, chunky gold hoops, and oversized sunnies.