What goes up must come down, especially in the ever-evolving world of fashion. The playful trends of youth eventually give way to the sophistication of adulthood. However, one trend that continues to endure is the office siren style, with its roots firmly planted in the early aughts and a penchant for timeless essentials. For the fashion-forward, it’s transcended the pinstripe vests and tailored blazers of yore, returning us to our universal adoration for the pencil skirt.
Thanks to a deluge of street style images from New York Fashion Week, the pencil skirt is poised to dominate the coming seasons, both on and off the clock. While a classic pencil skirt has always been a timeless choice, Vogue’s Coveted Pencil Skirt Edit unveils refreshing styling ideas to reinvigorate this familiar silhouette.
These ensembles are steeped in ’90s nostalgia, reminiscent of Toteme’s creamy leather skirt paired with Khaite’s square-toe boots. But the looks are far from stagnant; they breathe new life into the pencil skirt. We’re seeing it adorned with sequins from J.Crew, wool from Tory Burch, and a party-in-the-back silhouette from Prada.
Here are nine shoppable pencil skirt outfits that transcend the confines of the office and the era they once reigned in:
The Party-Ready Option With an Everyday T-Shirt
J.Crew’s all-over sequined pencil skirt isn’t just for evening wear. Paired with Leset’s comfy-casual Margo T-shirt and a pair of strappy Gucci flats, this look effortlessly transitions from celebratory lunch to late-night dancing.
The Trending Leather With an Oversized Cape
Searching for a seasonless and on-trend pencil skirt? Look no further than A.L.C.’s Marta skirt. Its rich, moody burgundy is beautifully contrasted by Cos’s soft wool cape, a pair of pierced pumps from Tory Burch, and a woven bucket bag from Bottega Veneta.
The Pop of Color With an Elevated Hoodie
The hoodie has evolved beyond its athleisure origins. Aritizia’s zip-up crafted from supple cashmere elevates the hoodie, making it suitable for more than just post-pilates errands. Embrace a tonal approach with accessories and let Tory Burch’s vibrant skirt take center stage.
The Minimalist’s Choice With a Coveted Boot
Minimalist style never goes out of fashion, especially when it features Toteme’s A-line leather pencil skirt. Paired with a simple J.Crew crewneck sweater and a thin Déhanche belt, this no-fuss formula works effortlessly for everyday wear. Khaite’s knee-high Marfa boots provide the perfect finishing touch.
The Textural Touch With a Little Box Bag
Ready to make a bold statement this season? Channel Vogue Runway’s Laia Garcia-Furtado and embrace Lii Studio’s electric teal, fuzzy pencil skirt. Accessories, like Aquazzura’s velvet pom-pom slingbacks and Savette’s ladylike top-handle bag, keep the look streamlined yet playful.
The C-Suite Look With Fashion Codes
When in doubt, turn to the archives of Miu Miu. Tuck Everlane’s sage green button-up into Cos’s double-faced wool pencil skirt, and complete the look with coveted accessories like Alaia’s Le Teckel bag and Margaux’s patent leather Mary-Janes, a nod to British Vogue’s Julia Hobbs.
The Trending Scarf-Sweater With a Runway Favorite
The scarf-sweater hybrid offers the best of both worlds: all-day comfort and warmth without the commitment. Embrace the versatility of this Rohé scarf-sweater by wrapping it around your neck or letting it dangle at the nape. Like Vogue’s executive fashion director Lisa Aiken, pair it with Prada’s peplum pencil skirt, Neous’s wear-anywhere sandals, and Madewell’s affordable bucket bag.
The Metallic Midi With a Classic Blue Button-Down
This season’s newest pencil skirts come in a variety of unexpected fabrics, from suede and leather to crinkle metallics, like this one from Staud. Show off the five-pocket design by tucking in a crisp blue poplin shirt and adding a beaded necklace from Completedworks for a touch of personality.
The Effortless Essential With Silky Separates
Sometimes simplicity reigns supreme, and what’s more essential than a classic black pencil skirt? Elevate this wardrobe staple from Max Mara with The Row’s silky embroidered shirt and Rachel Comey’s leather shoulder bag, punctuated by fringe details. Mansur Gavriel’s Dream ballerina flats complete the look on a tonal note.
