Going to Great Lengths

  A full-length skirt is a dichotomy; it is usually modest, possibly elegant, and can be
incredibly alluring. It can be both dowdy and chic, and to our jean-saturated culture,
defines formality, but yet can be so informal. After disappearing from the runway for
a period of time, a variety of interpretations of the full-length skirt have returned –
pleated, straight, flared, and sporty. While these skirts are flattering, it is sometimes
difficult to imagine a place for them in today’s world of constant commuting and constant
communication. Until recently, I believed that full-length skirts lacked the practicality
of pants and pencil skirts, and I relegated long skirts to more formal occasions. My
perspective changed when I learned that almost anything is possible in a floor-length,
pleated skirt!

My first foray into full-length skirts began last spring, with a pleated khaki skirt and
matching belt. I purchased this garment at a thrift store, and wore it with a silk shell and
patent heels to a variety of occasions. I wore it to work, I wore it to lunch, and I wore it to
church. But while wearing stilettos, I was limited to activities involving walking, sitting,
and listening.

Later that spring, I purchased another full skirt – a white and blue summer-weight plaid,
also vintage, and a thrift store find. This skirt also became a wardrobe staple, with a knot
tied at the hemline and paired with a summer blouse and sandals. I again chose to wear
this skirt to occasions requiring only limited physical activity.

A few weeks ago, while on vacation, I wore my blue and white skirt to a timeshare
presentation. As a veteran of these types of events, I expected the evening would begin
with a quick tour of the various housing options and the amenities, and when the group
had assembled, my friends and I followed the guide through the grounds. The guide led
us to a large swing (read: two stories tall, harness required) at the edge of the property,
explaining its origins and its features. Instead of continuing the tour, the guide stopped
and asked for volunteers. Since I did not know when a similar opportunity would arise, I
started climbing the ladder.

Minutes later, I was flying through the air, skirt knotted at my knees. In that moment,
with the air rushing past my face and the earth far below me, my skirt felt less than
formal.

Our next stop on the tour was a small stable was adjacent to the swing, complete with
horses, all saddled and ready to run. The guide again stopped and asked for volunteers;
I’ve always enjoyed horseback riding, so I looked around and raised my hand to join four
others.

Minutes later, I was trotting down the road, skirt tucked into my saddle, billowing
slightly in the breeze. More than anything, I felt like a pioneer woman, ready to face any
challenge.

It was then that I remembered scenes from all those westerns I watched with my dad, and
I began to question the formality and inconvenience I have always associated with full-
length skirts. While standing in a sea of jeans that evening, I realized that the versatility
of my plaid skirt matched the convenience of shorts but gave my outfit a feminine
confidence.

Spring 2012, bring on life’s many challenges. I’m ready!