Photo: Jonathon Kambouris

15 of 25
Old School: Avoid miniskirts if you're over 30.

New Rule: It's taken a while, but I've finally loosened up on length. If you have the legs for a mini (especially if you're petite), go for it! Just make sure the length of the skirt is past your fingertips, and choose a sophisticated shape like the trumpet, soft flare or envelope styles shown here. To balance the shortness of the skirt, your top should be modest—no plunging necklines, please.
From top:
Parker,$253; ParkerNY.com
Nic + Zoe, $128; NicandZoe.com
$79; BananaRepublic.com