The skirt, one of the earliest forms of clothing, was worn by both men and women in ancient civilizations like Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Greece. During the Middle Ages in Europe, skirts became predominantly a women's garment, evolving into layered and pleated designs. The Renaissance and Baroque eras saw skirts become fuller and more elaborate, supported by structures like farthingales and panniers, while the 18th century introduced wide panniers at the hips. The Victorian era brought narrower waists and fuller hems, with skirts supported by crinolines and bustles. In the early 20th century, skirts shortened and became less restrictive, with the flapper dresses of the 1920s reflecting women's changing roles. The mid-20th century saw styles vary from practical wartime designs to the voluminous "New Look" of the late 1940s, and the mini skirt of the 1960s became a symbol of youth culture. From the 1970s to the 1990s, skirt styles diversified, including maxis, midis, and minis, and by the 21st century, skirts have continued to evolve, reflecting diverse trends and cultural shifts while remaining a versatile staple in fashion.