Here’s a question that seems easy enough to answer — until it isn’t. A bright yellow skirt, full of visible holes, appears in front of you. You count them quickly, feel confident, and lock in your answer. But wait — are you seeing the whole picture? Or just half of it?
This brain teaser has taken over the internet, and it’s stumping even the sharpest minds. Why? Because it plays a clever trick on your perception. It’s not just about what’s visible — it’s about what your brain assumes versus what’s actually there.
So, how many holes are really in the skirt? Let’s break it down and see if your answer holds up.

At First Glance: What Most People Miss
The image shows a yellow skirt with a few noticeable holes on the front. That’s what grabs your attention. Maybe you see three or four right away and think, “Got it.” But slow down. This isn’t a game of speed — it’s about accuracy.
Here’s where most people trip up: they only count what’s visible on the front and forget to consider that some of those holes go through the fabric. And guess what? That changes everything.
Video: How Many Holes in the Skirt Riddle | Picture Puzzle | Hard Picture Puzzle | Puzzle Games
A Closer Look at Each Type of Hole
Let’s talk hole math.
There are three torn holes clearly visible on the front. If each of those goes all the way through the skirt — and we assume it’s a symmetrical piece of clothing — then each one actually counts twice (once on the front, once on the back). That gives you 3 × 2 = 6 holes already.
Then, there’s one more small hole on the side of the skirt. Since it’s only visible from one angle and doesn’t appear to go through both layers, that’s just one.
But wait, we’re not done.
The Two Obvious Holes Everyone Forgets
Here’s where this puzzle gets sneaky — the waistband at the top and the hem at the bottom. Yes, those count too. Technically, they’re holes. One’s where you slip your body into the skirt, and the other is the open bottom where your legs go.
We often overlook them because our brain registers those as “part of the design,” not holes. But in logical terms, they are open spaces — and in this puzzle, they count.
So, let’s add it all up:
- 3 front holes = 6 (counted twice, front and back)
- 1 side hole = 1
- Waistband = 1
- Hemline opening = 1
Total: 6 + 1 + 1 + 1 = 9 holes
Surprised? You’re not alone.

Why This Teaser Is Such a Mind Game
This isn’t just a counting trick — it’s a perception trap. The brain loves to categorize and simplify what we see. It tends to group patterns and ignore the obvious if it doesn’t “feel” like part of the problem.
This optical illusion forces us to break from assumptions and analyze the visual with a logical lens. It’s the same concept that magicians use — make you focus on one thing so you miss the bigger picture.
It’s a Puzzle, But Also a Mental Wake-Up Call
Ever misread something because you were rushing? Or made a mistake because you assumed you already knew the answer? That’s exactly what this puzzle simulates. It teaches us to look twice, to think beyond the surface, and to never underestimate a simple question.
Just like life — the answer is often in the details we overlook
A Tip for Tackling More Teasers
Video: 16 Riddles That Will Train You to See Hidden Details
Next time you run into a brain teaser like this, pause before jumping to an answer. Ask yourself:
- Could there be hidden layers?
- Am I counting what’s visible… or what’s real?
- Is my brain filling in blanks based on habit?
Sometimes, the real trick is realizing how your own thinking can mislead you.
Conclusion: It’s Not Just a Skirt — It’s a Lesson in Awareness
So how many holes are in that yellow skirt? The correct answer is 9. But this puzzle isn’t just about numbers — it’s about looking deeper, thinking sharper, and questioning the obvious.
It teaches us something valuable: the things we overlook often change the outcome entirely. Whether you got it right or were off by a few, the real win is training your brain to slow down and really see what’s in front of you.
Now that you know the secret, go ahead — share it with a friend and watch them squint, overthink, and guess wrong. Then enjoy that satisfying “gotcha!” moment when you reveal the truth. Because in the world of brain teasers, every detail matters — even the ones hiding in plain sight.