Skort

A skort is a garment that combines the appearance of a skirt with the practicality of shorts. It typically features a skirt-like outer layer with built-in shorts or briefs hidden underneath, offering ease of movement and modesty without the need for separate shorts.

Design and features vary, but common elements include a front or overlay panel that resembles a skirt and an inseam or short lining made from stretch fabric. Waistbands may be elastic, drawstrings, or have a zipper and button closure. Lengths range from mini to knee-length, and styles can be plain or patterned. Materials are often blends designed for comfort and performance, including cotton blends, polyester, nylon, and spandex or elastane for stretch. Some skorts incorporate moisture-wicking or quick-drying fabrics for athletic use, while others are tailored for casual or schoolwear.

History and usage have seen skorts evolve from niche athletic apparel to a mainstream garment. Early versions appeared in mid-20th-century fashion and sport catalogs, but modern popularity grew with advances in performance fabrics and a growing emphasis on versatile women’s sportswear. Today, skorts are worn in sports such as tennis, golf, and running, as well as in school uniforms and casual everyday outfits. They are often chosen for modesty, comfort, and ease of movement, particularly in activities that require sitting or bending.

Variations include athletic skorts with compression shorts, pleated or flat-front designs, wrap-style configurations, and culotte-inspired versions that mimic a skirt’s silhouette while retaining shorts’ practicality. Care generally mirrors that of the fabric type, with machine washing typical for most blends.