LaPointe Feather Skirts: Styles, Styling and Care

LaPointe makes feather skirts in three ways: feathers sewn onto satin at the hem, feathers embroidered across a high waist skirt, and fully feathered skirts made from marbled ostrich; the key pieces are the satin asymmetric skirt with feathers, the multi feather embroidery high waist skirt, the marbled feathers high waist skirt and the feather embroidery flare skirt. A feather skirt is the rare party piece that looks as good standing still as it does in movement. Worn with a plain knit, a bodysuit and a crisp shirt, it is more versatile than it looks. This guide explains each skirt, what to wear with it, and how to look after feathers.

Quick answer: which LaPointe feather skirt to buy

The satin skirt with a feather hem

The Satin Asymmetric Skirt With Feathers in Cream is the easiest way into a feather skirt. The body is fluid satin, cut asymmetric, and the feathers sit only at the hem, so it is light and comfortable to sit in. In cream it is a natural choice for a bride at her reception and her rehearsal dinner. Read our LaPointe reception dresses guide.

Embroidered feather skirts

Here the feathers are embroidered across the surface of the skirt, so the effect is textured rather than fluffy. The Multi Feather Embroidery High Waist Skirt in Honey mixes feathers in warm apricot tones on a high waist midi. The Feather Embroidery Flare Skirt in Chartreuse is a flared shape in a vivid yellow green, made for a party where you want colour. Both sit at the natural waist, which makes them easy to wear with a tucked in top.

Fully feathered skirts

The Marbled Feathers High Waist Skirt in Butter is the most dramatic skirt in the range: covered in marbled ostrich feathers in a pale cream yellow. It is a black tie piece and a gala piece, and it needs nothing more than a fine knit and a bodysuit. It also matches the Marbled Feathers Jacket in Butter for a full set, one of the most striking looks LaPointe makes.

Feathered trousers, the alternative

If a skirt is not for you, LaPointe puts feathers on trousers too. The Lightweight Georgette Wide Leg Pant With Feathers in Black has a feathered hem on a wide georgette leg; the Stretch Cotton Twill Denim Pant With Feathers in Cream puts feathers on a cream jean. See our LaPointe satin pants guide for the plain cuts.

What to wear with a feather skirt

A fine knit. The most modern answer. The Cashmere Silk Turtleneck in Black with a feather skirt is evening wear that feels relaxed. The Cashmere Silk Turtleneck in Cream suits the cream and butter skirts.

A bodysuit. The cleanest line at the waist. The Jersey Mock Neck Bodysuit in Black and the Jersey Long Sleeve Bodysuit in Black both work with every skirt in this guide.

A satin shirt. For a dinner, a shirt keeps the look grown up. Try the Satin Button Down With Feathers in Black, which repeats the feathers at the cuff.

A cape tee. The Satin Cape Tee in Cream tucked into the satin feather skirt is a soft bridal look.

Keep the top plain and the shoes simple. A feather skirt is the focus of the outfit.

Are feather skirts practical?

More than you would think. Feathers are light, so feather skirts are comfortable to wear for hours. They do shed a little when new, and they need space in the wardrobe. They suit evening events from October to March, and they photograph better than almost any other fabric.

How to care for a feather skirt

Dry clean only, with a specialist who handles feathers. Store the skirt flat, wrapped in tissue, in a breathable cotton bag; never press it into a crowded wardrobe. To refresh crushed feathers, hold a steamer at a distance for a few seconds and shake gently. Our guide to caring for feather clothing covers this in detail.

Sizing

LaPointe feather skirts are high waisted with a defined waistband. Choose by your waist measurement, and if you are between sizes, size up: the skirt should sit at the waist without pulling. See our LaPointe sizing guide.

Frequently asked questions

What do you wear with a feather skirt?

Wear a feather skirt with a plain top: a fine knit, a bodysuit, a satin shirt and a cape tee all work. Keep the shoes and jewellery simple so the skirt stays the focus.

Are feather skirts in style?

Yes. Feathers are a lasting evening trend and a signature of LaPointe, which has made feathered pieces every season. A feather skirt with a knit is a modern way to wear them.

What kind of feathers does LaPointe use?

LaPointe uses ostrich feathers for its fuller pieces, including the marbled feather skirts and jackets, and marabou on some knits. Feathers are applied as trims, as embroidery and as a full surface.

Can you sit down in a feather skirt?

Yes. Feathers are light and flexible. A skirt with feathers only at the hem, such as the Satin Asymmetric Skirt With Feathers, is the most comfortable for a long seated dinner.

How do you clean a feather skirt?

Dry clean only, with a specialist. Store it flat in tissue and a cotton bag, and refresh crushed feathers with a steamer held at a distance.

Do LaPointe feather skirts shed?

All feather pieces shed a few feathers when new. Shedding settles after the first wears; avoid rubbing the feathers against rough fabrics and bag straps.

Read next

• LaPointe feather dresses
• LaPointe reception dresses
• LaPointe winter formal dresses
• LaPointe knitwear

Written by Gemma Deeks, Fashion Editor at Coveti.