Contemporaine
Two-Tiered Light Denim Skirt
This two-tiered light denim skirt from Contemporaine by Simons is a flared midi-length skirt designed for women, crafted from lightweight reprocessed 100% cotton denim. It features a gathered two-tier silhouette with a cutout below the hips, a back elastic waistband with hidden zip closure, and a wide stitched hem. Length measures 33 inches (84 cm) in size small; the garment is rated true to size by reviewers.
- Color
- Light Denim
- Material
- Reprocessed 100% cotton denim
- Gender
- female
- Style
- casual, flared
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Clothing > Skirts > Long Skirts
Color
Size
Specifications
A flared two-tiered denim skirt with a gathered cutout and elastic waist.
Flared fit, two-tiered design, gathered cutout below hips, hidden back zipper, elastic back waist.
- Color
- Light Denim · blue
- Material
- Reprocessed 100% cotton denim
- Style
- casual, flared
- Occasion
- everyday, casual
- Gender
- female
- Age Group
- adult
- Condition
- new
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Clothing > Skirts > Long Skirts
Additional Attributes
- lightweight reprocessed 100% cotton denim
- unlined
- flared fit
- two-tiered design
- gathered cutout below the hips
- hidden zip closure at the back
- gathered elastic waist at the back
- length: 33 inches (84 cm)
Product Insights
The Contemporaine Two-Tiered Light Denim Skirt, at $89 CAD, delivers a sustainable, career-oriented silhouette using 100% reprocessed cotton that saves 81% CO2, 80% water, and 62% fossil energy compared to virgin materials. Its hybrid design—tailored front with elastic back waistband and gathered cutout—provides structured flare and movement, but the unlined, rigid cotton requires cold wash and hang dry to prevent shrinkage and softening. Fit varies by body shape due to the lack of stretch beyond the waistband, and the fabric softens over time while remaining hypoallergenic and moisture-wicking. Despite a modest 2-star rating from one review, the skirt costs under half of comparable conventional styles, offering a tradeoff between eco-conscious affordability and careful maintenance.
- Resource savings
Reprocessed cotton reduces CO2 by 81%, water by 80%, and fossil energy by 62%.
Why this is supported
According to a comparative LCA by Miljögiraff, recycled cotton fibre emits 381 kg CO2e per tonne against 1,958 kg for virgin cotton—an 81% reduction.
recycled cotton fibre emits 381 kg CO2e per tonne, against 1,958 kg CO2e for Cotton Inc.'s baseline virgin cotton—an 81% reduction
What reprocessed cotton actually saves — 81_lower_carbon_footprintAdditionally, it uses 80% less water, as reported by thetextilethinktank.org:
recycled cotton uses 80% less water than conventional cotton, because it does not require irrigation or wet processing.
thetextilethinktank.orgFor fossil energy, the study shows a 62% reduction:
MJ Primary energy (fossil) 15000 34699 5749
esu-services.chFinally, recycled cotton diverts textile waste from landfills:
Recycled cotton also reduces textile waste by diverting cotton products from landfills and giving them a new life.
thetextilethinktank.org- Circularity
100% reprocessed cotton without virgin fibre blend—a rare composition.
Why this is supported
While recycled cotton is usually blended with other fibers, this garment achieves a rare 100% reprocessed cotton composition without any virgin blend, as noted by thetextilethinktank.org:
Recycled cotton is usually blended with other fibers, such as virgin cotton, polyester, or lyocell, to improve its quality and strength.
thetextilethinktank.orgThis maximizes circularity and avoids the water and land use of conventional farming.
The skirt uses 100% reprocessed cotton, which is notable because
. This aligns with Simons' Vision program, which states
Simons will produce 40 to 60% of its lines using recycled products.
vancouverscape.com. Compared to virgin cotton, this garment's material reduces water consumption by 80% and fossil energy use by 62%, with an 81% lower carbon footprint (
recycled cotton uses 80% less water than conventional cotton
thetextilethinktank.organd cradle-to-gate data shows significant energy and carbon savings).
It has a slightly rough and rustic feel, which is part of its charm.
yiletextile.comThis initial texture provides a gentle massage-like sensation, and as Yile Textile further explains,
It provides a gentle massage - like sensation as the fabric moves against the body.
yiletextile.comThis rugged feel is characteristic of 100% recycled cotton because, as The Textile Think Tank notes,
– Recycled cotton is usually blended with other fibers, such as virgin cotton, polyester, or lyocell, to improve its quality and strength.
thetextilethinktank.orgThe 100% reprocessed composition means the fabric retains its rustic character at first but softens progressively with washing.
- Value
At $89 CAD, this skirt costs under half of a LEVEN SIXTEEN skirt (~$190) that uses conventional 50/50 cotton-lyocell.
Why this is supported
This skirt uses 100% reprocessed cotton (
Lightweight reprocessed 100% cotton denim
lyst.com), while the comparable LEVEN SIXTEEN skirt at roughly $190 is crafted from a 50% cotton, 50% lyocell blend with no recycled content (
Crafted from a blend of 50% cotton and 50% lyocell
target.com). At $89 CAD, it costs less than half while using more sustainable materials.
- Longevity
Softens over time; requires cold wash and hang dry to maintain shape and prevent shrinkage.
Why this is supported
The reprocessed cotton denim softens with repeated washing, making the skirt more comfortable over time and encouraging long-term wear. To preserve its fit and environmental benefits, the brand recommends:
We recommend washing this skirt in cold water on a delicate cycle and hang drying to minimize both issues.
Is the reprocessed cotton denim prone to fading or shrinking after washing?- Fit versatility
Hybrid silhouette: tailored front with flexible back; fit varies by body shape.
Why this is supported
The skirt achieves a tailored front and a flexible back simultaneously: the rigid cotton front holds a clean A-line silhouette while the elastic back allows for movement and size fluctuation.
Contemporaine (modern, classic lines for career women)
vancouverscape.comHowever, the elastic waist may not suit all body types equally, as noted in customer feedback.
the elastic waist may not suit all body types equally
How does the fit run compared to standard Simons sizes? Is the elastic back waist accommodating for different waist shapes?- Cutout
Gathered cutout creates structured flare that swings and reduces elastic strain.
Why this is supported
The gathered cutout is a key design element:
The gathered seam that separates the two tiers forces the lightweight denim into a structured flare that opens up with each step, creating a swinging, almost bell-shaped motion
Movement and volume from the two-tiered cut — gathered_cutout_below_the_hipswhile also providing a functional benefit:
. This combination of motion and comfort is a direct result of the tiered design.
- Airiness
Unlined lightweight denim causes hem to lift and flutter with each step.
Why this is supported
The unlined reprocessed cotton is exceptionally light:
Left unlined, the reprocessed cotton denim is exceptionally airy, so the skirt doesn't feel weighed down even with the extra fabric of the tiers; each step causes the hem to lift and flutter rather than droop.
Movement and volume from the two-tiered cut — unlined_lightweight_bounceThis explains the airy feel and flutter effect.
- Waistband
Elastic back waistband adapts to sitting and bending, eliminating tugging.
Why this is supported
The elastic back waistband is designed to move with the body:
The gathered elastic back waistband adapts to body motion — it stretches when you sit or bend, keeping the skirt securely in place while the flared cutout lets the fabric drape away from the hips, eliminating any tugging.
Movement and volume from the two-tiered cut — hidden_elastic_back_waistbandThis ensures comfort during movement.
- Stretch and fit
Rigid 100% cotton with elastic back waistband for comfort.
Why this is supported
The skirt's 100% reprocessed cotton has no elastane, so the elastic back waistband is structurally necessary.
makes the elastic back a necessary comfort feature rather than a style choice
Fit versatility for different body shapes — 100_cotton_non_stretch_denimThe hidden back zipper opens the waistband fully for dressing, making the elastic not a pull-on mechanism but a comfort gusset.
elastic back is not a pull-on mechanism but a comfort gusset that adapts to waist changes while sitting
Fit versatility for different body shapes — hidden_zip_closure_at_the_back- Care
100% reprocessed cotton saves ~80% water and ~81% carbon, is hypoallergenic, but needs cold wash and hang dry.
Why this is supported
Research shows that recycled cotton
uses 80% less water than conventional cotton
thetextilethinktank.organd achieves an
81% reduction
What reprocessed cotton actually saves — 81_lower_carbon_footprintin carbon emissions. The skirt's fabric is also
generally hypoallergenic
yiletextile.com, but reprocessed cotton can be
more prone to fading and shrinking if not cared for properly
Is the reprocessed cotton denim prone to fading or shrinking after washing?; the brand recommends
washing this skirt in cold water on a delicate cycle and hang drying to minimize both issues.
Is the reprocessed cotton denim prone to fading or shrinking after washing?Most recycled cotton fabrics are
usually blended with other fibers, such as virgin cotton, polyester, or lyocell, to improve its quality and strength.
thetextilethinktank.org- Fabric feel
Lightweight, unlined, breathable denim starts rustic, softens over time, and swings with movement.
Why this is supported
The reprocessed cotton denim is lightweight and unlined, providing excellent breathability. It starts with
a slightly rough and rustic feel, which is part of its charm.
yiletextile.combut softens with each wash. The
forces the lightweight denim into a structured flare, creating a swinging movement.
- Comfort
Fabric wicks moisture and is hypoallergenic, keeping skin dry and irritation-free.
Why this is supported
The 100% reprocessed cotton retains the moisture-wicking properties of natural cotton; Yile Textile states,
The natural cotton fibers in recycled jeans yarn are still able to absorb moisture, just like they did in their original denim form. This means that when the yarn is made into clothing, it can help keep the skin dry by wicking away sweat.
yiletextile.comAdditionally, the material is generally hypoallergenic, as Yile Textile notes:
Recycled jeans yarn, being made from cotton, is generally hypoallergenic.
yiletextile.comThis makes the skirt suitable for bare-leg wear without irritation, even for sensitive skin.
- Fabric behavior
Lightweight denim provides airy movement, but the 100% cotton fabric has no stretch.
Why this is supported
The lightweight reprocessed cotton denim gives the skirt a bouncing, airy movement with each step, avoiding the heavy droop of thicker denim. However, since the fabric is 100% cotton without elastane, it does not stretch or give; the elastic back waistband handles all movement adaptation, so the denim holds its shape without bagging but does not conform to body curves.
- Softening
Fabric softens noticeably with each wash, becoming more comfortable.
Why this is supported
Research on reprocessed cotton indicates that the fabric softens noticeably with each wash, transitioning from a slightly rough texture to a more comfortable feel over time.
- Elastic waist
Flared fit, gathered cutout, and hidden zip prevent elastic waistband from stretching out.
Why this is supported
The skirt's design—flared fit, gathered cutout below the hips, and hidden zip closure—reduces strain on the elastic back waistband, preventing the stretched-out wear common to elastic-waist skirts, as per analysis of the product description.
- Target audience
Exclusive Canadian in-house label designed for career women.
Why this is supported
Contemporaine is described as
Contemporaine (modern, classic lines for career women)
vancouverscape.comand the label confirms it is
Contemporaine by Simons: an exclusive designed in Canada
lyst.com, positioning the skirt as a polished piece for the professional wardrobe.
Image Analysis
3 images- 01
Product
Light-wash denim midi skirt with a two-tier construction, gathered lower tier, wide stitched hem band, and a fitted waistband visible from the front.
- WaistbandStraight fitted waistband band sitting at the natural waist with visible horizontal topstitching along its top and bottom edges.
1 region
x 0.22 · y 0.33 · w 0.56 · h 0.10 (high) - Two-tier seam and gatheringHorizontal seam below the waistband joins an upper skirt panel to a lower panel; the lower panel is slightly gathered at the seam creating soft vertical folds.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.43 · w 0.60 · h 0.20 (high) - Wide hem bandLower edge finished with a wide hem band separated by a visible horizontal topstitch line above the hem.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.82 · w 0.64 · h 0.12 (high) - Fabric appearanceLight denim fabric with a smooth finish and subtle vertical weave/grain visible across the skirt surface.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.45 · w 0.60 · h 0.45 (high) - Front view and drapeFront-facing view showing the skirt falling straight from the waist with a gentle A-line drape and soft folds from the gathered seam.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.33 · w 0.64 · h 0.62 (high)
Other
Studio shot showing the skirt worn by a model against a plain white background; model styling and accessories visible but not part of the product.
- Model stylingFemale model wearing a white sleeveless ribbed top tucked into the skirt; silver stacked cuff bracelet on left wrist and black woven flats on feet.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.06 · w 0.64 · h 0.90 (high) - Shot compositionFull-body frontal studio shot with the model centered and ample white space around; plain seamless white background.
- Lighting and shadowsEven soft lighting with minimal shadows; slight shadow under the model on the floor.
1 region
x 0.28 · y 0.90 · w 0.44 · h 0.09 (medium)
Colors
light denim blue· skirt body#AAC5E4- WaistbandStraight fitted waistband band sitting at the natural waist with visible horizontal topstitching along its top and bottom edges.
- 02
Product
Front view of a light blue two-tiered denim skirt on a model, showing a high waistband, a gathered upper tier, and a wide stitched hem at the lower tier.
- SilhouetteA-line midi skirt falling to mid-calf, with visible fullness created by a gathered seam below the waistband.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.14 · w 0.76 · h 0.78 (high) - WaistbandStraight, non-elastic looking waistband band across the top with a horizontal topstitch line near the upper edge.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.10 · w 0.64 · h 0.08 (high) - Tiered seam and gatheringHorizontal seam about one quarter down from the waistband with soft gathers creating slight fullness below the seam.
1 region
x 0.15 · y 0.20 · w 0.70 · h 0.10 (high) - Lower hem bandWide lower band created by a horizontal stitched seam above the hem, the band has a consistent width around the skirt.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.76 · w 0.76 · h 0.14 (high) - Fabric appearanceLight denim fabric with a smooth, even weave and no visible distressing or fading patterns on the visible side.
- Side panels and drapeSkirt shows soft vertical drape toward the sides with subtle flare; side seams are not prominently visible from this front view.
2 regions
x 0.72 · y 0.20 · w 0.18 · h 0.64 (medium); x 0.10 · y 0.20 · w 0.18 · h 0.64 (medium)
Other
Studio front-facing product shot on a model against a plain light background; model hands, bracelet, and shoes visible; soft even lighting with minimal shadows.
- Model presenceModel shown from just below the waist to the feet wearing the skirt; hands rest at sides and are partially visible.
1 region
x 0.06 · y 0.00 · w 0.88 · h 1.00 (high) - Accessory detailStacked metallic bracelet on model left wrist visible at the top left of the image.
1 region
x 0.10 · y 0.09 · w 0.12 · h 0.12 (high) - Footwear visibleModel wears black mesh flats that are visible at the bottom of the frame.
1 region
x 0.30 · y 0.86 · w 0.40 · h 0.12 (high) - Background and lightingPlain light neutral studio background with even, diffused lighting and a faint shadow beneath the model's feet.
Colors
light denim blue· skirt body#A5C2E3- SilhouetteA-line midi skirt falling to mid-calf, with visible fullness created by a gathered seam below the waistband.
- 03
Product
Rear view of a light blue denim two-tiered skirt on a model showing an elasticized waistband, a gathered tier seam across the back, a visible center back seam, and a wide stitched hem band; skirt hangs with soft drape to mid-calf.
- Elasticized waistbandWide waistband at the top of the skirt with visible elastic gathering and a horizontal seam below it, seen across the back waist.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.06 · w 0.64 · h 0.12 (high) - Two-tiered seam and gatheringHorizontal tier seam runs across the back below the waistband with small gathers producing a fuller lower panel.
1 region
x 0.10 · y 0.28 · w 0.80 · h 0.08 (high) - Center back seamA straight vertical seam is visible at the center back from the waistband down through the gathered area.
1 region
x 0.48 · y 0.10 · w 0.04 · h 0.55 (high) - Wide hem band with topstitchingLower edge shows a distinct wide hem band separated by a horizontal stitched line above the hem.
1 region
x 0.10 · y 0.74 · w 0.80 · h 0.18 (high) - Fabric drape and textureLightweight denim fabric with smooth surface and soft vertical drape, showing faint tonal variations and a subtle vertical press crease near the center back.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.18 · w 0.76 · h 0.60 (high) - No external pockets visibleBack view does not show patch pockets, welt pockets, or other external pocket openings on the visible panels.
Other
Studio photograph of the model wearing the skirt from the rear on a plain light background; lower legs and shoes visible, even soft lighting and minimal shadow.
- Shot compositionRear-facing model cropped slightly above the waist and below the calves, skirt centered in frame.
- Background and lightingPlain light neutral background with soft, even studio lighting and faint shadow beneath the model.
- Visible props and stylingModel wears a white ribbed top tucked into the skirt and black mesh flats; a silver bracelet is visible on the right wrist.
2 regions
x 0.54 · y 0.00 · w 0.30 · h 0.18 (high); x 0.36 · y 0.82 · w 0.36 · h 0.16 (high) - Image qualityHigh resolution and well focused with clear detail on seams and fabric texture.
Colors
light denim blue· skirt body and waistband#9CBCE2- Elasticized waistbandWide waistband at the top of the skirt with visible elastic gathering and a horizontal seam below it, seen across the back waist.