At the ripe of age of 45 I have realised that:
1 - The reason I look rubbish in skirts is because I always wear them with knee boots. My lower legs are one of my best features - I have fairly chunky calves but very dainty ankles. This is all disguised by boots, and my legs just look tree trunky. I wore a usual outfit today, but with navy semi-opaque tights and navy brigues. Looked loads better!
2- satiny underwear makes your clothes sit better and move more easily that cotton underwear.