Dear Deborah,
I just went back to work after many years at home with my kids, and I’m trying to figure out how to dress. I still have a pretty good body ( hourglass shape ), and I want to look businesslike, but feminine too. Lately, I’ve noticed a lot of pleated skirts in fashion magazines, but I don’t really like them. Are pencil skirts still in , and if so what should I be looking for in a pencil skirt? Thanks Jill
Hi Jill,
The pencil skirt is a classic style that never dates. I think it would be perfect for you because it would highlight your curves, but you’d still look professional. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a pencil skirt.
1. Fit is Key
Your skirt should be wide enough across your hips that it doesn’t pull, but it should also be snug enough around your waist to look sleek. ( You shouldn’t be able to get more than 1 or two fingers between your waist and the waistband)
If you have trouble with fit, find a skirt that fits your hips and take the skirt in at the waist, not the other way around. The better the quality, the better the fit.
2. A Printed Pencil Skirt is Modern
Pencil skirts in solid black, taupe, navy or camel are the most appropriate for business, but cute pencil skirts with a pattern are popular too. They give off a professional, more creative vibe than a plain colored pencil skirt. Wearing one is like saying, “I’m all about business, but I’m not boring!”
3. Keep your Look Streamlined
Remember the idea of a pencil skirt is to show off those curves so you don’t want to wear a top that is loose, bulky or so long that it covers up half of your skirt. Pencil skirts look best with tops that are tucked or that end just at or a bit below the waist.
4. A Jacket Cranks up Your Authority
A sleeveless blouse can look lovely with a pencil skirt, but at work, it’s always best to always have a jacket on hand for those times when you want to show more authority. A tailored jacket will instantly elevate your credibility and status.
A dark, solid colored jacket worn with a matching pencil skirt projects more authority than coordinating separates. You’re more likely to see this matched suit combination in high corporate environments like law or finance. Mixed co-ordinates are more acceptable in businesses like communications and sales, as well as more relaxed corporate environments.
5. Pencil Skirts Look Fab After Hours Too!
Pencil skirts for work don’t have to be boring. Switch out your regular work pump for a sexy shoe with ties, ankles straps, and other alluring details, and you can take your pencil skirt from the boardroom to bar for after work drinks and dinner with friends.
Jill, have a wonderful time back at work, and dress Fab Boss Lady!
Did you like this Post?
Subscribe toget updates in your email inbox! You can also connect with me on Instagram and Facebook.
This post contains revenue generating affiliate links which helps support my business at no additional cost to you. Thank you for shopping via my links.
Really like the first two, but have to say the third one fits badly even on the model. There is a definite indentation at the lower hip where the skirt is too tight, and you can see the way the pocket slits above it bulge out a bit. A good fit really is essential with the cut, otherwise you look lumpy!
Agree with you there Kathy. It looks like they didn’t have the right size for the model and squeezed her in. Thanks for pointing that out. Deborah
Love the first outfit.