I have been wanting this skirt for a long time. i was worried about waist which is fitted. i finally ordered it and it i very cute. the waist is indeed fitted but there is some give to the fabric, fabric is soft cotton not unlike denim with some stretch. there i a soft cotton liner in skirt. i took the cloth belt off because i cannot retie it so neatly as in the photo, also i just don't want a bow on my stomach. i own a cute narrow belt that i will wear with skirt as i think something is needed