Named after the silhouette it gives, pencil skirts are by nature long, slim and body hugging. This makes them extremely figure-friendly to the wearer, while remaining pretty modest.
Although they are commonly worn at the workplace, these high-rise skirts are so versatile they can be slipped into for any occasion. It certainly helps that they now exist in so many colours and textures for you to show off your personality.
Seeking inspiration from Kate Beckinsale, Jessica Biel and Nicole Scherzinger, here are three great ways you can rock that pencil skirt in and out of the office.
Kate Beckinsale pairs her sleek pencil skirt with a refined top and pumps.
Got a day full of meetings, but still want to look chic? We got you. Lengthen your frame with a flattering skirt and complement it with sophisticated accessories.
Clockwise from bottom left: Skirt, $69.90, from Dorothy Perkins. Top, $170, from Thefrankieshop.com. Glasses from Prada. Earrings from Jill Sander. Ring from Monica Vinader. Bag, $1,340, from Longchamp. Versace shoes, $1,150, from Net-a-porter. Watch, $449, from Tory Burch.
Jessica Biel matches similar, sweet shades that bring out femininity even in a relaxed turtleneck.
Going for a dreamy palette of pretty pastels? Keep it chic in a structured skirt with clean lines.
Clockwise from bottom left: Bokuchava skirt, $340, from Net-a-porter. Top, $239, from Society A. Earrings, $8.95, from H&M. Coat from Moschino. Malone Souliers shoes, $810, from Pedder On Scotts. Bag from Loewe.
Nicole Scherzinger gives us a welcome blast of colour that defies the pencil skirt’s corporate nature.
Is a pink-and-red combo is too over-the-top for you? Steal the show with a chic, ribbed skirt and nude accents, juxtaposed against a pop of electric pink.
Clockwise from bottom left: Skirt from 8 by YOOX. Top, $39.90, from Zara. Earrings, $1,898, from Carrie K. Cardigan, $209, from H&M. Shoes, $53.90, from Charles & Keith. Bracelet, $1,109, from Thomas Sabo. Bag, $29, from Pomelo.
Read Next
Text: Sifra Vania & Cherrie Lim
A version of this article first appeared in The Singapore Women’s Weekly February 2020 print issue.