The pencil skirt is a tried-and-true American classic that has transcended time and trend. A piece that was once reserved for the office now gets to go out on the town, to Sunday brunch... pretty much anywhere and everywhere. We chatted with fashion historian Kimberly Chrisman-Campbell to learn more about the evolution of the style, and how you can pick one that's ultra-flattering.
Marie Claire: How has the pencil skirt evolved?
Kimberly Chrisman-Campbell: Fabric became scarce during WWII, so pencil skirts were not just a fashion statement but also a patriotic one. Full skirts came roaring back after wartime fabric restrictions were lifted, but women still wore pencil skirts with peplum jackets to create an hourglass shape. In the ’50s, pencil skirts were long and boxy. They got shorter and tighter in the ’60s before disappearing when the miniskirt conquered fashion, then came back in the ’80s as part of the power suit, and they’ve stuck around ever since.
MC: What makes a pencil skirt feel modern?
KCC: Play with the materials, details, and accessories. It can be leopard or PVC.
It can have a small slit in the back or a big one in the front. Wear it with a half-untucked T-shirt or a slouchy sweater.
MC: How should it fit?
KCC: A true pencil skirt sits high on the waist and ends at the knee or just below, and it’s tight enough that it needs a slit or a kick pleat at the back so you can walk.
Shop Our Favorite Pencil Skirts
A version of this story appeared in the March 2020 issue of Marie Claire.
RELATED STORIES
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
Megan DiTrolio is the editor of features and special projects at Marie Claire, where she oversees all career coverage and writes and edits stories on women’s issues, politics, cultural trends, and more. In addition to editing feature stories, she programs Marie Claire’s annual Power Trip conference and Marie Claire’s Getting Down To Business Instagram Live franchise.
-
Marie Claire's Power Play
By Marie Claire Editors Published
-
When Are the Next Episodes of 'Physical: 100' Season 2 Releasing?
The finale (and a new winner) is near.
By Quinci LeGardye Published
-
Beyoncé Spends 'Cowboy Carter' Eve Without a Cowboy Hat
She cozied up with a luxurious faux fur coat instead.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
The Best Spring Street Style Outfits Inspired by Rain Hats
The accessory, synonymous with wet weather, re-emerges as a fashion favorite.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
These 12 Editor-Approved Spring Work Outfits Clock Overtime
You'll want to onboard these looks ASAP.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Cameron Russell Can't Reform Fashion Alone
The model's gripping new memoir is a call to action—and accountability.
By Halie LeSavage Published
-
Meet the Designers Keeping the Art of Craftsmanship Alive
In today's murky fashion landscape of discourse and 'cores, to be a revolutionary is to tune out the chatter and focus on your design. Here, a vanguard group of designers who prioritize their skills above all else.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Exclusive: Rothy’s Designs Its First Wedge Sandal
The footwear brand just released its first wedge sandal.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Sherri McMullen Is the Oakland Boutique Owner Redefining Retail
From mentoring emerging brands to spotting the next big designer, we chat with the entrepreneur about everything from TikTok trends to the current state of the industry.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Colorful Cowboys and Celebs Galore: Pharrell William's Latest for Louis Vuitton Men's
A special shoutout goes to Williams' revamped Speedy bags.
By India Roby Published
-
This Under-the-Radar Jacket on Amazon Is My Newest Winter Obsession
And, no, it's not the "Amazon coat."
By Jaimie Potters Published