A reader writes...

SMALL PRINT: Dear Rosemary, I recently spotted a girl wearing a midi leather skirt that I now want and need. It was A-line and she was wearing with a black shirt, all very simple and classic. As a size 16, can I get away with a midi A-line skirt, and where would I find one like hers, for under €100? Thanks, Cara, Westmeath

Dear Cara,

As my mother would say, you really don’t need that skirt. It is leather, and very distinctive, therefore you won’t wear it often. You can’t wash it and so you will send it, very occasionally, to the dry cleaner, where you will begrudge the €20 bill. It will be very warm, which simply won’t make you happy – unless you are taking regular trips to Moscow – and it will sit in your wardrobe, unworn and unloved. This is, of course, all written from sad, leather experience.

However, I’ll admit that a midi skirt would be perfect for a size 16, provided you wear it with a fitted shirt or blouse, always tucked in – so there are a few roads you can go down. Principles by Ben de Lisi at Debenhams has perhaps the closest match, but it is a not-so-wallet-friendly €262.50. It is, however, real leather and a beautiful length and fit, so worth the investment.

Other options include this A-line number from Marks Spencer for €135 in a very flattering shape and cut which will sit exactly on the waistline – precisely where a leather skirt should sit. If you’re willing to go the pencil route, Miss Selfridge has a very covetable number and, at €45, it leaves room for some sartorial regret, two wears in, while Monsoon has a similar shape in a brushed leather, but at €210, ensure true love before parting with your hard-earned cash.

The very best option is to go secondhand. Harlequin in Dublin’s Castle Market frequently stocks a great selection, and a little attention - perhaps a hemline reduction here, a seam reinforcement there – should see most looking as good as new. Ripped seams can easily be repaired, but keep an eye out for tears in the fabric, and if the item is stained in the shop, chances are they’ve already tried removing it and it won’t budge for you.