How can I soften a stiff cotton maxi skirt from M and S?

[HobgoblinNorFoulFiend]

I bought a black cotton maxi skirt from m and s and have left it too long to return. It’s awful honestly, very long and sort of stiff, so it billows out and doesn’t hang well at all.

It’s 100 per cent cotton and quite thin fabric but almost feels like polyester. Does anyone know what I can try to “weather it in” a bit and make it pleasanter to wear?

It’s probably been treated / coated with something to give it that feel. Have you tried washing it?

I don't know but I left a stiff denim jacket in the car for a couple of weeks by accident and it softened it. It was during hot weather. Might help?

I think that's the style, though. There are quite a few of those crunchy cotton poplin skirts around, and they are not supposed to be droopy and soft. Not sure how you could soften it, apart from washing lots with fabric softener.

Or cut your losses, stick it on Vinted, and buy something you like more!

Yes I have but I’m now thinking I might stick it on a boil wash because I also started taking up the hem so I can’t really stick it on Vinted.

It probably is just the style. I bought it online. Unfortunately I’m not slim so it makes me look huge 🤦🏻

I've got that - it's supposed to billow. It either works for you or doesn't. I'd sell it on rather than ruin it by boiling.