1066 And All That

I love maxi skirts and I thought I'd share some of my collection.

My all-time fave has to be a little crimplene number with the Bayeaux Tapestry printed all over, unearthed in a vintage shop. I remember a friend of my mother's having a trouser suit made in the same fabric way back in the 1970's and was immediately hit by a wave of nostalgia so when I noticed the £5 price tag I was overjoyed.

Those pictured include a tiered psychedellic pink paisley print (Charity Shop 60p), an early Dorothy Perkins needlecord (£10 vintage fashion fair) and a Finish pure wool number that zips from the knee to the waistband and has a matching shawl (Jumble sale 20p).

Maxi skirts are my winter wardrobe staple - they cover the legs but look more off-beat and feminine than trousers. I pop a pair of killer heel leather boots on underneath and don't bother with tights unless it's really, really cold. They also feel great for lounging around the house in the evening.

In summer I love them with gladiators, heaps of beads and vest tops - they hide pale legs or a patchy fake tan. When I'm in India I find that they are modest enough for sight-seeing and the bright, vibrant prints are often admired by the locals.

Any maxi skirt tips?

• Apart from searching the usual second-hand haunts try looking on eBay under "Long, Prairie, Evening or 1970's Skirt". Inexperienced sellers often list vintage clothing under the standard Women's Clothing section or in Collectables - Vintage/Retro.
  
• Don't forget to ask any older female relatives if they have any hidden away.
  
• Get hold of a vintage dress-making pattern and try making your own from a vibrant retro curtain.
• Don't be put off by crimplene - it's a really practical fabric to launder and retains shape and colour well.
• Wear your maxi with a tight fitting top - a polo neck or skinny vest is ideal - as the amount of fabric can swamp you and make you look shapeless.