We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
How To Style Your Pencil Skirt Now: 10 New Ideas
The easy way to make your pencil skirt look modern
Sleek, minimalist and modern, this navy skirt has all the signatures of a Calvin Klein classic. A flash of contrast blue detailing around the pockets injects a contemporary feel.
Side detail skirt, £600, Calvin Klein at Farfetch
The daywear one
Make no mistake - pencil skirts can be worn during the day outside of the office. Take heed of Sienna Miller here as seen at the Burberry show, where she teamed a green style with a cropped jumper. For an added relaxed appeal, team with a pair of black heeled ankle boots.
Just Female's ribbed green skirt is relaxed without losing the shape that gives the pencil skirt its feminine edge.
Wool pencil skirt, £125, Just Female at Farfetch
The leather one
A leather pencil skirt is one of those pieces that you'll have in your wardrobe forever. Angelina Jolie prefers a more classic, elegant look, having styled hers with a white silk shirt, but for a modern update, team with a simple T-shirt or a Breton top. Swap towering court shoes for strappy modest heels or a mule.
Made using soft calf leather, Joseph's classic style will mould to your body. Added stretch and vents at the back ensure you feel comfortable too.
Evie leather skirt, £745, My Theresa
Mother of Pearl's elegant pencil skirt begs to be worn with slouchy knitwear or a vintage T-shirt. Wear with a pair of Converse for a youthful, yet pulled-together weekend ensemble.
Floral frill skirt, £330, Mother of Pearl at Harrods
Jacquard fabrics offer a sense of opulence that work well for evening dates. Clash textures with a black shirt and mules.
Jacquard pencil skirt, £495, Dolce & Gabbana at Matches Fashion
Prepare to turn heads in McQ's vinyl pencil skirt, which will work well with a cable knit or mohair cream jumper.
Stretch vinyl skirt, £275, McQ at Net-a-Porter
Either team Victoria Beckham's white ribbed incarnation with a matching white top or a knit in a similar texture for instant chic.
Ribbed knit skirt, £348, Victoria Beckham at Net-a-Porter
Diane von Furstenberg is a go-to when it comes to pencil skirts. Known for her use of colour, print and flattering cuts, hers are an investment you won't regret. Those who appreciate a more understated look should pair with a simple T-shirt, alternatively clash prints for a playful edge.
Oriental print skirt, £206, DvF at Farfetch
Ellery's long-length pencil skirt is fitted but not shrink-wrapped. Style with a boxy top for a 2018 update.
Litty pencil skirt, £183, Ellery at Stylebop
Pencil skirts look great teamed with shirts, but keep them oversized so that you veer away from tired office wear.
Belted skirt, £360, Robert Rodriguez at Harrods
Reformation's New Swimwear Line Is Here
Barrel-Leg Jeans Are The Shape For 2024
25 Denim Maxi Skirts Editors Really Want
Team ELLE On Their Best Ever Vintage Fashion Find