September 16.2023
The skirt that receives the most likes this year is the pencil skirt. Since its inception in the early 1900s, the pencil skirt has been associated with femme fatales, sophisticated intellectuals and movie stars, making it one of the most fashionable and coveted style items. With a fitted waist and a short elegant hemline that ends just below the knee, the design is chic. A Pencil skirt shaping, streamlining and polishing your appearance while highlighting your curves is definitively the ultimate deadly seduction tool in 2024.
An iconic design from 1950s and 1960s
Pencil Skirt is today an icone. But do you know where it comes from?
The Pencil Skirt is said to have been born in 1908, the year that Mrs. Edith Hart O. Berg flew as the nation’s first passenger. During the flight, the latter would have tied some rope around her ankles to stop air from slipping under her skirt. The hobbled dress would have been inspired by this gesture, though Paul Poiret always asserted that he had created this design on his own. However, the subsequent craze for calf-length skirts, which required women to walk with jerky, short steps, was mercilessly mocked.
This is only in 1954, when Christian Dior’s “H Line” unveiled a new silhouette for the contemporary woman, the pencil skirt as we know it today first made an appearance. This silhouette, which got its name from how its capital “H”-shaped, made of straight lines with a slight waistline mark, looked, had the benefit of lengthening the legs and drawing more attention to the hips.
The pencil skirt evolved then into a symbol of the 1950s and 1960s. The most famous wearer of pencil skirt, Marilyn Monroe, wore it with tight sweater, or white shirt emphasizing her wasp waist. The skirt was also worn elegantly in lime green version by Grace Kelly, or wear sophisticated in black, by Audrey Hepburn.
How to wear a Pencil skirt?
Pencil skirts are a versatile wardrobe essential, worn to laid-back occasions like brunch with friends or for shopping but are also great for formal events like business meetings or interviews.
Pencil skirts look good on most body types, but it’s crucial to pick one that highlights your best features. Look for a skirt with stretchy bandage fabric that hugs your curves without being too tight if you have a curvier figure. Choose a pencil skirt with detailing like rushing or pleats for people with straighter figures to give the appearance of curves.
Pencil skirts come in a variety of lengths, so it’s better to choose one that accentuates your body type. Selecting a skirt that ends just above the knee will give the appearance of longer legs for people with shorter legs. A skirt that reaches just below the knee or mid-calf can be a great choice for people with longer legs.
Occasion
Pencil skirts can be worn for a variety of events. Choose a traditional pencil skirt in a color like black, navy, or grey for formal occasions like business meetings or interviews. Try out bold prints and colors for more laid-back occasions like brunch or a day out.
Choose a skirt in a neutral color with little embellishment if you want to go for a timeless and classic look. Choose a skirt with striking prints or unusual fabrics, like leather, metallic, or suede, for a trendier appearance.
How to combine the right top with a Pencil skirt?
It’s crucial to consider the fit and proportions when wearing a pencil skirt with various tops.
The secret is to produce a balanced, unified appearance.
Here are some suggestions for how to wear a pencil skirt with various tops:
Blouses: When wearing a pencil skirt, a blouse is a timeless option. Pick a blouse with a V-neck or scoop round neck if those necklines suit your body type. For a polished appearance, tuck the blouse into the skirt’s waistband. Leave the blouse out of the tuck for a more relaxed appearance and add a belt to define the waist.
T-shirts: While a t-shirt may seem too casual to pair with a pencil skirt, it is actually a good option for a more laid-back appearance. Pick a fitted or cropped t-shirt, then tuck it into the skirt’s waistband. Dress up the appearance with a statement necklace or a stylish pair of shoes.
Sweaters: In cooler months, wearing a sweater with a pencil skirt can be both comfortable and fashionable. Pick a cropped or fitted sweater, and tuck it into the skirt’s waistband. Alternately, wear the sweater out of the tuck and add a belt to draw attention to your waist.
Jackets: Jackets and blazer are a great way to give a pencil skirt definition and sophistication. For a more edgy and laid-back appearance go for a denim jacket, leather or bomber jacket.
How to wear pencil skirts?
Work: Put on a classic black or navy pencil skirt, a crisp white button-up blouse, and a pair of black pumps for a polished and professional appearance. Use a structured handbag and a statement necklace as accessories. As an alternative, you can add a splash of color to your workday by wearing a vibrant pencil skirt with a neutral blouse and blazer.
Date Night: Wear a lace or floral pencil skirt with a silk blouse for a romantic and feminine look. Put on a pair of strappy heels and some statement earrings as accessories. For a more edgy and casual appearance, you can also wear a leather or denim pencil skirt with a crop top and ankle boots.
Weddings: Wear a floor-length pencil skirt with a silk blouse or a beaded top. Use a clutch bag and statement earrings as accessories. For a more feminine appearance, you can also wear a midi-length pencil skirt with a lace blouse and strappy heels.
Brunch: Wear a high-wasted denim pencil skirt with a striped t-shirt or a thin sweater for a laid-back yet stylish brunch look. Add espadrille wedges and a cross body bag as accessories. Alternately, for a more fanciful and relaxed appearance, team a bright floral pencil skirt with a white t-shirt and sneakers.
Cocktail Party: Wear a metallic or sequin pencil skirt with a black blouse or silk camisole for a chic and glam cocktail party ensemble. Put on a pair of strappy heels and some statement earrings as accessories. As an alternative, you can create a more fashionable outfit by wearing a velvet pencil skirt with a lace top and ankle boots.
Best tips for confidently wearing a pencil skirt
Pencil skirts can be a great way to feel stylish and confident, but for some people, they can also be intimidating. Here are some pointers to help you feel at ease and assured while wearing a pencil skirt.
Posture: When wearing a pencil skirt, proper posture is essential. Roll your shoulders back as you stand up straight and contract your abdominal muscles. You’ll appear taller, slimmer, and more assured as a result of doing this.
Styling: Pick a pencil skirt that looks good on you and fits well. Choose a skirt with a high waist or a A-line if your hips are wide. Select a skirt with curves if you have a straighter figure.
