10 of the best on-point pencil skirts
Channel this season’s modest mood and imbue your style with some old-world glamour by stepping out in a pencil skirt
The pencil skirt has always been a bit of a surprisingly sexy closet staple. When it debuted as part of Christian Dior’s H-Line collection in 1954, the design was modestly simple (in essence, it still is), but the way it emphasized the waist, clung to the hips and hovered below the knee encouraged a slinky walk and gave the piece a smart-meets-sensual reputation. Still, it’s often overlooked as an antiquated workwear piece, dismissed as unassuming and a bit stuffy. This season, though, it’s coming out of the closet, reimagined by established and emerging designers alike, who clearly reveled in dialing up the demure overtones of this closet classic, or, on the flipside, subverting them. So, what should you look for? Grab a pencil and take notes…
WEAR IT DAY TO NIGHT
First stop, designers who specialize in shape and sophisticated sex appeal, making New York-based Joseph Altuzarra a win-win. His clever use of a buttoned split allows you to conceal or expose as much leg as you’d like; down while at your desk, up when you go out to dinner. A fine knit is perfect for day, but switch to something with a statement neckline by night; for exclusively after-dark activities, Christopher Kane should be your go-to. His ruched patent pencil skirt hits the sweet spot between hot and haute every time.
If it’s the vintage vibe you’re after, Erdem’s conversation-starting embellished skirt is a sure-fire way to imbue your evening look with old-school opulence. His touch-me-textures play with the skirt’s ladylike connotations. Add a liquid-silk cami or pussybow blouse depending on your mood.
WEAR IT OFF DUTY
So, that’s evening style sorted, but the new pencil skirt crosses into weekend territory too. Whether you’re drawn to Prada’s classic monochrome designs or Calvin Klein’s tie-dye leather, these souped-up basics look as good with a crisp oversized shirt as they do with your favorite fail-safe sweater. When it’s warmer, all you need is a plain white tee and some graphic color-pop accessories.
The one thing all these skirts have in common? They come complete with that signature shimmy.
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