Spring fashion: As long as it gets

Unless you're following the Gwyneth Paltrow dressing plan of "the more leg the better", spring's big trend in long, almost-floor-grazing skirts might just appeal to you. True, it's yet another trend that could drown those of us shorter than 5-feet-5 and so far every long skirt I've seen worn has been on a runway model (Michael Kors did the long, lithe casual version; at Jil Sander it was more crisp and polished) on whom the skirt drapes and pools so elegantly and perfectly I want to cry.

But by taking into consideration your proportions and matching the skirt with the right top and shoes, a woman of any height can certainly carry it off without looking as if you've been attacked and rolled up in a bolt of discount fabric.

Go casual

I love the everyday casual look of wearing one of these skirts with a white T-shirt or white men's button-down, tucked in and maybe with the sleeves slightly scrunched up. Ballet flats, simple flat sandals or even Converse Chuck Taylors look adorable peeking out from the hem.

If you don't want to tuck in your shirt, leave it loose and hanging out but think about winding a thin leather belt around your midsection to define the waist and create some shape, especially if you're on the shorter side. If you're going for a dressier look and want to wear heels, make sure the skirt isn't long to the floor but rather more of a tea length (in the front, at least), like the beautiful smoky grey version that's available at Club Monaco.

Evening ideas

The way long skirts were presented at the Jil Sander spring 2011 show is also a perfect example of how to take the look into night-time. The skirts there were more structured and came in a palette of happy, vibrant and vivid colours.

A crisp white T-shirt tucked in and the right statement accessories make for a modern, chic and unexpected evening look.

On the other end of the spectrum, you can bring out your inner grunge girl by putting a neutral-coloured skirt in grey or black with flat lace-up boots, a slouchy shirt and a draped tissue-thin scarf.

The length of these skirts may seem a bit daunting to wear. However, because the colours, fabrics and silhouettes are so simple and elegant, think of pairing more casual and minimal pieces with them, so you're not engulfed in fabric.

And, hey, long may be a new concept for some women in spring (except for the cotton jersey maxi dresses so many women love) but they sure beat shorts hands down.