What Exactly Is the Car Wash Skirt? Your New Fall Must-Have!

Styling tips for fall's latest trend

By Diana Nguyen Nov 06, 2015 12:34 AMTags
Kendall Jenner Steve Granitz/WireImage

Let us introduce you to one of fall's up-and-coming trends: the car wash skirt. You might've briefly met the cut at the latest Dior, Public School or Jason Wu runway shows, or perhaps caught a glance of it on a few fashion-forward celebs, like Kendall Jenner. Now, it's time to start a relationship with the surprisingly versatile trend.

Not exactly pleats and thicker than fringe, the car wash skirt features fabric panels separated by slits—whatever the length, this sexy peek allows for movement, making it an eye-catching wardrobe essential.

How do you wear such a unique design? We take one skirt and show you how to wear it three ways.

Office attire doesn't have to be boring. Those skirt slits, for example, are just subtle enough to go undetected from HR but will surely turn heads as you walk to the water cooler. Pair the high-waist bottom with a cropped sweater (because it's somehow always freezing in the office) and lace-up flats, and you're ready to get down to business.

Tibi Cuarteto Carwash Midi Skirt, $385; C 0 Cropped Sweater, $995; Sole Society Annaleigh Exotic Structured Tote, $69.95; Aquazzura Burgundy Nappa Leather Christy Lace Up Flats, $675; Bar III Skinny Hinge Bangle Bracelet, $22.50

The car wash skirt is inherently preppy, but work in some edgy pieces and the casual contrast will get you through unlimited mimosas in style. Pair your panels with a chambray shirt tied up at the waist and a patterned moto jacket to make a statement. Whether you're hiding from the sun or concealing your hangover, animal-print sunnies can do you no wrong.

Tibi Cuarteto Carwash Midi Skirt, $385; DEX Plaid Moto Jacket, $78; Madewell Perfect Chambray Shirt, $70; River Island Grey Suede Peep Toe Heeled Ankle Boots, $120; Illesteva 'Leonard' 47mm Mirrored Sunglasses, $177

While the skirt may say, "I don't kiss on the first date," let the sheer top and bandeau bra tell your bae otherwise. It's always good to keep ‘em guessing, right? For extra impact, carry your essentials in a printed or embellished clutch and bring some color into the mix with statement shoes.

Tibi Cuarteto Carwash Midi Skirt, $385; Pleats Please by Issey Miyake Long Sheer T-shirt, $185; Humble Chic Emmy Lace Bandeau, $24; Steve Madden Women's Presidnt Gilly Sandals in Red Suede, $99; Givenchy Baby's Breath Medium Pouch, $375

Want to make your own DIY car wash skirt? Watch the video below!

Watch: How to Make a Runway-Worthy DIY Car Wash Skirt