Who’d have thought that an item worn by Alpine peasants in the nineteenth century could make such a mark in the fashion world? The Dirndl, a full skirt that hangs just below the knee, traditionally worn by Austrian and German peasants, has surprised us all, and replaced the pencil skirt in the fashion stakes.

Models at Donna Karan were on safari, in full, caramel-coloured Dirndls and Panama hats, whilst Marni offered up a bountiful selection of flowing linen skirts, which were paired, in classic Marni style, with chunky wooden bangles piled high on the arm and super-high wedges. At Prada, the real show-pieces were the diaphanous Dirndls painted with whimsical, fairytale images. If wearing a work of art is a bit OTT for you, take inspiration from Karl Lagerfeld’s collection, where simple black skirts looked chic with Mary Janes and super-wide, patent belts.

Warehouse do a beige, Donna Karan-lookalike skirt for £35 ($70), which is great for the office, and right on trend, with safari style being big this season. For a more casual look, try this flippy skater skirt from Topshop, £22 ($44), or make a statement with this tribal print version, £20 ($40) from New Look. Polka dot lovers will go dotty for this spotty Dirndl, a steal at £14.99 ($30), from H&M.

Images courtesy of Elle and Style Finder.