Skorts

Must-Have Skorts: Where to Shop and How to Style Them in the US

Why skorts are wardrobe heroes

Ever wanted the freedom of shorts and the silhouette of a skirt all in one piece? That’s the quiet magic of a skort. Think of it as a hybrid vehicle for your closet — efficient, practical, and surprisingly stylish. Whether you’re sprinting after a bus, serving an ace on the tennis court, or grabbing coffee with friends, a skort keeps you looking put-together while letting you move.

Top places to shop skorts in the US

If you’re hunting for skorts, the US market has options for every budget and aesthetic. Big-box retailers like Walmart and Target cover the basics and athletic styles. Online marketplaces such as Amazon offer an enormous range and quick shipping. Department stores like Macy’s and Nordstrom carry designer and trend-forward choices. For performance and athleisure, check brands like Athleta, Lululemon, and Dicks Sporting Goods. Boutique labels and indie brands round out the field with unique prints and sustainable fabrics.

Walmart — variety and value

Walmart is a go-to when you want affordable, everyday skorts without hunting through pages of search results. Their inventory includes performance-driven pieces — for example, breathable tennis pleated skirts with inner shorts, pockets for essentials, and fabrics meant for running or yoga. You’ll also find brand-name athletic skorts like Augusta Femfit in sizes ranging from small to extra-large. If you want a practical skort that won’t break the bank, Walmart is a solid first stop.

Cerqular — boutique finds and playful colors

Cerqular is a smaller label that often focuses on distinct colorways and soft silhouettes. Their Short Jay Rose collection comes in sizes S, M, and L and highlights a more fashion-forward stance: think playful colors and casual shapes that transition easily from daytime errands to brunch. If you like skorts that lean more fashion than performance, boutique sellers like Cerqular can offer pieces that stand out in a crowd.

Athletic skorts vs. casual skorts — which should you pick?

Choosing between athletic and casual skorts comes down to how you plan to use them. Athletic skorts prioritize mobility, moisture-wicking fabrics, and secure inner shorts, often with tech features like four-way stretch or built-in UV protection. Casual skorts favor style — softer cotton blends, decorative pleats, or longer hemlines that read dressy. Ask yourself: will I be active in this skort, or do I need it to look polished at a weekend event?

Key features to look for

When you inspect a skort, check the inner short length, pocket placement, waistband type, and fabric weight. Inner shorts that sit mid-thigh reduce chafing and increase coverage. Pockets that sit on the front or side are great for phones and cards. A wide elastic waistband adds comfort for all-day wear, while a zip or button gives a sleeker look. And fabrics? Lightweight synthetic blends dry fast for workouts; cotton blends breathe well for everyday wear.

How to choose the right fit — measurement tips in inches

Fit can make or break a skort. Grab a soft measuring tape and measure in inches: waist at the smallest point, usually an inch or two above the navel; hips at the fullest point, around 7 to 9 inches below the waist depending on your body. Compare those numbers with the store’s size chart, and if you’re between sizes, consider the fabric. Stretchy blends can accommodate more give, while woven skirts with structured panels will fit more rigidly.

Typical size guide examples

As a quick reference, a small often corresponds to a 26–28 inch waist and 36–38 inch hips, medium to 29–31 inch waist and 39–41 inch hips, and large to 32–34 inch waist and 42–44 inch hips. Remember these are general ranges — brands differ. If you’re buying from Walmart or a major retailer, read customer reviews for real-life fit notes, especially about inner-shorts length and waistband comfort.

Styling skorts for different occasions

Skorts are surprisingly versatile. For tennis or golf, pair a pleated skort with a moisture-wicking polo and athletic shoes. For casual days, swap the sneakers for low-profile sandals and a relaxed tee. Dress a skort up for the office by choosing a mid-length, structured style in a neutral color and pairing it with a tucked-in blouse and loafers. Want a night out look? Add a sleek belt, ankle boots, and a leather jacket.

Accessorizing and layering tips

Think of accessories as the finishing brushstroke. A slim belt can define the waist on voluminous skorts, while a crossbody bag keeps pockets free for movement. Layer with tights in cooler weather — choose opaque black tights for a streamlined look — or throw on a denim jacket for casual texture. For sporty outfits, a visor or baseball cap and a light zip-up hoodie keep things functional and stylish.

Fabric and care: what’s best and how to maintain skorts

Different fabrics demand different care. Performance blends like polyester and spandex resist sweat and dry quickly; wash them in cold water and avoid high heat drying to maintain elasticity. Cotton or linen blends are breathable but may wrinkle; a light tumble on low or air-drying keeps them looking fresh. Always check the tag, but as a general rule wash cold, tumble low or line dry, and avoid bleach unless the garment calls for it.

Stain removal and quick fixes

Stains happen. Treat fresh stains with a spot-cleaning solution or a mix of mild detergent and cold water, dab — don’t rub — and let sit for a few minutes before rinsing. For sweat marks, soak the inner shorts in cold water with a bit of enzymatic cleaner. Hem issues? A quick safety pin or temporary hem tape can get you through the day until you can tailor it properly.

Budget breakdown: affordable to premium skorts

There’s a skort for almost every price point. At the lower end, expect prices from roughly $10 to $35 for basic sporty or casual styles found at Walmart, Target, and Old Navy. Mid-range skorts from brands at Macy’s or on Amazon typically land between $35 and $80, offering better fabrics and construction. Premium performance and designer skorts from Athleta, Lululemon, or department store collections commonly start at $80 and can go up to $150 or more.

Where to get the best value

Want function without splurging? Walmart performance skorts and brand collaborations often cover all the essentials — breathable inner shorts, pockets, and an active fit — at a fraction of premium prices. If you prioritize sustainability or advanced fabric technologies like odor resistance and higher UPF ratings, investing a bit more at Athleta, Patagonia, or Lululemon can pay off in longevity and comfort.

Sustainable and ethical options to consider

More shoppers are asking where their clothes come from and how they’re made. Look for skorts made from recycled polyester, organic cotton, or blended fabrics certified by reputable programs. Brands like Patagonia and a growing number of athleisure labels offer skorts made with eco-conscious practices. Smaller boutique brands sometimes disclose factory details and material origins, making it easier to choose items that align with your values.

Final picks and recommended skorts to try

If you want a few starter picks: try a breathable tennis pleated skort with inner shorts for athletic versatility, an Augusta Femfit skort for a tried-and-true athletic fit, and a Jay Rose short-skort from boutique sellers for unique color options. Pair those with mid-range sport skorts from Athleta or practical basics from Walmart for everyday wear. Testing styles across price points helps you discover what features you actually use — pockets, waistband comfort, or length — so your next purchase hits the sweet spot.

Making skorts work long-term in your wardrobe

Think of skorts as multipurpose staples rather than seasonal fads. Rotate athletic skorts into your workout rotation, save casual skorts for warm weekends, and keep at least one neutral, mid-length skort for informal work settings. Regular care — washing on cold, avoiding excessive heat, and storing properly — will keep them looking fresh. Over time you’ll learn which cuts flatter your shape and which fabrics hold up to your lifestyle.

Quick shopping checklist

Before you add a skort to your cart, run through this checklist: measure waist and hips in inches, decide activity level, look for inner short length and pocket placement, check fabric composition for care needs, and read reviews for fit notes. This short routine saves returns and ensures you end up with a skort you actually wear.

Conclusion

Skorts are one of those rare wardrobe pieces that blend practicality and style effortlessly. From Walmart’s budget-friendly athletic options to boutique colorways from sellers like Cerqular, there’s a skort for every lifestyle and budget. With the right fit, fabric, and a few styling tricks, you can wear skorts for workouts, weekend hangs, and even some workplace looks. Ready to try one? Measure in inches, pick the features you need, and enjoy the comfort and freedom a skort brings.