Pants + Skirts = Together Forever?

I'm all for layering.
In the cold months, you're bound to see me walking around wearing two shirts, a cardigan, a scarf, a jacket, and quite possibly another scarf on top of that. And while it's practical, I've always thought layering can look great too. From the baggy to the tanks (ah grade 10, 2 Hollister tank tops layered with an Abercrombie polo...ha...) I've always been a "layer-er".
However, I've recently toned it down and been really attracted to the minimal side of things. Not only is it easier, but it looks cleaner and it's comfortable for the warm weather. This is why what I'm about to discuss confuses me.

When I do layer, I only focus on the top half of my body. I don't layer pants (even the whole winter tights under jeans thing bothers me). And back a few years, when thick tights under skirts were all the rage, I partook in the trend for a while but realized it not only felt uncomfortable but, in my opinion, was a bit awkward. I like to stick to one pair of whatever on my bottom half.

This year, Chanel seems to have gone gaga for bottom-half layering. And I mean intense bottom-half layering. For both the Summer '11 and Resort '12 collections, Chanel has really been pushing pants and skirts. Together.

[top-summer'11,bottom-resort'12]

It's tough to say negative things about Chanel. And, really, some of these outfits don't look half bad (I really like the Resort '12 collection and colours). However, I can't see why anyone would want to wear a full pair of pants under a long, tight skirt. I would feel trapped and just plain uncomfortable. It seems so unnecessary, especially in the warm weather.

It's an interesting concept, but like I said, I'm a bit confused. What are your thoughts? Do you think we'll see people walking to work in trousers, a pencil skirt, and heels this summer?

Love,
Sarah