kjol

Kjol is the Swedish word for a garment worn from the waist down, commonly translated as skirt in English. In everyday Swedish, a kjol can vary from short to long and may be described by adjectives such as lång (long), kort (short), eller a-line, pleated, or woven in different fabrics. The singular form is kjol and the plural kjolar.

Linguistic and regional context

The term kjol is used in Swedish to refer specifically to skirts. Comparable words exist in related Nordic languages, often with similar roots: Norwegian and Danish have terms for skirts that reflect shared Germanic origins, while Icelandic uses kjóll for dress. The word’s morphology in Swedish allows typical inflections and compounding in phrases like lång kjol, färgglad kjol, or kjolen (the skirt) in definite form.

Usage and cultural aspects

Skirts have a long history in Swedish fashion and are a common element in both daily attire and traditional dress. In Swedish folk costume, skirts are frequently part of colorful ensembles worn for national celebrations and cultural events. In contemporary fashion, kjol styles range from casual denim and jersey options to formal, tailored, or pleated designs, reflecting seasonal trends and personal preference.

See also

Clothing in Sweden; Nordic languages; Fashion terminology.