How to Wear a Pencil Skirt

The pencil skirt is a versatile fashion staple first designed by Christian Dior in the late 1940s. The classic straight curve hugging skirt can be worn in many different ways to achieve a variety of looks. Even if you are not as skinny as a pencil, there are many ways to wear a pencil skirt that will leave you feeling fashionable and comfortable.

Instructions

Flatter Your Figure

1. Wear your pencil skirt sitting a little bit below your waist. The skirt should be slim fitting, but not painted-on tight. The skirt should hug the curves of the body yet still have some give. The length of the pencil skirt should fall to the knee or just below.

2. Choose a skirt with clean unadorned lines. The perfect pencil skirt will not have pockets, belt loops, buttons, front pleats, trim or gathering. The zipper should be invisible.

3. Hide your tummy by choosing suitable tops. For a small waistline, wear a sweater or button-down shirt tucked into the skirt. Pair a pencil skirt with a vest, sweater or wear your shirt pulled out if you have a medium waistline. Flatter your fuller figure with a jacket or shirt that is slightly longer that the widest part of your body.

4. Minimize your bottom half by choosing a black pencil skirt with black stockings or pantyhose. Draw attention to the hemline and legs and away from trouble spots by choosing a skirt with a flared bottom. Pick a light colored sweater with a dark pencil skirt to accentuate the top and minimize the bottom.

Create a Look

1. Create a glamorous look for evening with fabrics like satin, brocade or silk. Dress up your skirt with a feminine blouse with billowy sleeves, ruffles or bows. Choose an animal print paired with fishnet stockings for a sexy evening look.

2. Wear your pencil skirt with a short jacket or cropped cardigan for a classic vintage look. Choose a lightweight fabric with give, such as wool. Pair solids with tweeds. Accessorize with a strand of pearls and high heels.

3. Contrast textures and colors for a sophisticated fashionable look. Top your pencil skirt with a mismatched jacket for a smart modern update. Tuck your button-down shirt into your skirt when you head for the office.

4. Achieve a relaxed elegant style with an unstructured jacket in a vivid contrasting color. Leave a soft, oversize sweater loose or add a belt to create a flattering shape. Complete the relaxed look with a pair of low-heeled pumps or flats.