THE SKIRT LOCKER

A strange thing has been happening in stores lately. Just as the long, floor-grazing skirt has finally taken off, retailers are already pushing a new length, the "midi."

True to its name, this style is somewhere between the classic knee-length pencil skirt and the maxis that everyone from Richard Chai to Charlotte Ronson to ADAM paraded down the runway. Just like the other cuts, the midi is seasonless (pair it with chunky boots and tights right now, and swap out for flats or flip flops come spring) and, depending on whether you prefer the snug jersey version or the '50s swinging style, it perfectly hopscotches the line between ladylike and hippie.

While the midi fit in perfectly with Alexander Wang's grungy-secretary vibe he showed for Spring 2011, we're not so sure how it plays out in real life. Take a look at our picks below, and let us know if you're wiling to go halfway.

Robert Rodriguez long pointe skirt, $200 at ShopBop.

John Patrick tube skirt, $115 at La Garconne.

Alexander Wang long skirt, $275 at Opening Ceremony.

Thakoon drape front skirt, $390 at La Garconne.

Alexander Wang skirt, $149 at OAK.

Basic knit skirt, $6.80 at Forever 21.