Six Pencil Skirts That Will Instantly Upgrade Your Work Wardrobe This Season

3 min read
Pencil Skirts
Milan Fashion Week AW18 street style

The pencil skirt is a mandatory part of any style arsenal

When it comes to autumn workwear essentials, there are few styles as put-together and feminine as the pencil skirt. The classic knee-length hemline is HR-friendly, while the simple shape creates a clean, polished silhouette. However, this season the office staple has been reimagined in vibrant hues, bold prints and materials such as satin and wool. Here are our picks of the best pencil skirts to add to your work wardrobe this season.

Nanushka

Nanushka Aries belted satin midi skirt, net-a-porter.com

This Aries skirt from Nanushka is cut from red glossy satin in an elegant midi silhouette. It’s detailed with bow ties at the waist and covered buttons that run asymmetrically along the front. Team it with a crisp white shirt and nude heels for a chic but sophisticated office look.

Erdem

Erdem Maira rose-jacquard pencil skirt, matchesfashion.com

Erdem’s yellow Maira pencil skirt is woven with a dreamy floral pattern. Inspired by vaudeville star Adele Astaire, the retro sensibility of this piece is apparent, with its curve-hugging silk-lined shape and vented back for ease of movement. Modernise it with a velvet blouse and embellished heels.

Miu Miu

Miu Miu houndstooth tweed pencil skirt, mytheresa.com

Head into winter with a ladylike state of mind thanks to this Miu Miu tweed pencil skirt. Presented in chocolate and caramel-brown tones, it has been made in Italy and designed with a flattering straight, midi-length cut. Try wearing yours with a sand-tone sweater and white boots.

Oscar de la Renta

Oscar de la Renta flower pencil skirt, farfetch.com

Oscar de la Renta has reworked the classic pencil skirt this season in beautiful natural raw silk with a colorful flower harvest print. For a seriously feminine look, add the coordinating jacket.

Ralph & Russo

Ralph & Russo metallic coated silk-blend midi skirt, net-a-porter.com

An iridescent skirt might seem like an unnecessary addition to your wardrobe, but the midi length of this Ralph & Russo one makes it surprisingly versatile. Finished with a waist-cinching belt and tonal button fastenings that accentuate the front split, this skirt can take you from the office straight to dinner.

N°21

N°21 printed satin pencil skirt, mytheresa.com

N°21’s printed satin skirt channels a ladylike pencil silhouette and is doused in a striking photographic print for contemporary-cool allure. It’s been expertly cut in Italy and features a figure-flattering high waist, while the motel imagery brings a distinctly Americana vibe.

There’s a misguided perception that neutrals are boring, but this season seventies inspired hues have been given a modern update.

  • Words by Gracie Stewart