How to Choose a Pencil Skirt

Women enjoy wearing the slender skirt. But how do you chose the fitted skirt for your leg shape and body type? First, most women can wear a fitted skirt, often called a pencil skirt. You don't have to be thin or skinny. Women of average build, as well as plus-sized women, look attractive wearing close-fitting skirts.

First, consider your leg shape when you go shopping for this type of skirt. Women with straight legs can wear the pencil skirt in any length; however, women with slightly bowed legs will look very attractive with the longer version of the skirt. A women with very bowed legs might want to opt for the A line or flared skirt rather than a pencil skirt.

Next, you want to take your measurements. Make sure that you can slip the tips of your fingers into the waistband of the skirt and that it falls smoothly over your hip and buttock area. This is especially true of gabardine and linen, which are fabrics with less give.

The longer the skirt and the closer the fit, the greater need for a kick-pleat. Your legs will move freely while wearing a pencil skirt that is above the knee, but when walking in longer skirts that have no kick-pleat, movement will be restricted.

When considering colors and prints, think of the occasion. Neutral colors like gray, navy, black and tan are traditionally worn in the office. Fabric also dictates the occasion. Gabardine, wool, or polyester are commonly worn in workplace, while crepe, chiffon, or denim are often worn socially.

Finally, how you wear your close-fitting or pencil skirt is a matter of taste; but this skirt is not for everyone. Do choose this particular skirt with care. Yes, you want to look great, but you also want to dress according to your leg shape and body type.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. 
   Different skirts for different shapes

   Know your body type. Some women look best in an A-Line or flared skirt as opposed to the pencil skirt.

2. 
   Pencil skirts complement the figure

   Choose a skirt that complements the shape of your leg and body type.

3. 
   A comfortable fit is essential

   When you sit, your slender skirt should be as comfortable as a pair of tailored slacks.

4. 
   Walking should be a breeze

   When you are walking, this fashionable skirt should not restrict the movement of your legs, so make sure it has a kick pleat.

5. 
   Pencil skirts in the workplace

   Do not wear tight-fitting skirts in the workplace.

6. 
   Dressy pencil skirt

   Wear the right skirt for the occasion. For evening wear, it's acceptable to wear your slender skirt a bit closer fitting around the hip area.

7. 
   Fashion variety

   Pencil skirts come in a variety colors to spice up your wardrobe.

8. 
   Fashion skirt

   The Pencil Skirt is attractive and can be worn for all occasions depending on the color, fabric, and style of the garment.

Tips & Warnings

• All sizes can wear a pencil skirt
• Try it before you buy
• Get a second opinion

Resources

• J C Penney
• Ann Taylor
• Glen Plaid Pencil Skirt
• Marc Jacobs Pencil Skirt

[jswana]

on 11/27/2009 Oh, this is the new word for 'straight' skirt. Love them no matter what the name. Nothing can be much more fabulous than a pencil skirt when worn correctly. Thanks for sharing your know-how on getting the correct one for your body type. jswana 5*

[DiscountTickets]

on 5/29/2009 I just love pencil skirts, makes ladies look much slimmer. Thanks for sharing.

[LostInTransit]

on 5/24/2009 Pencil skirts rock! Thanks for this article on how to choose a pencil skirt. *****

[shasha10]

on 5/21/2009 I love pencil skirts too, but not when I have eaten too much. Thanks for the skirt tips. 5*

[godfather25]

on 5/21/2009 Great article on choosing a pencil skirt. 5*