Yes, You Desperately Need a Pencil Skirt
The American classic has reinvented itself for a new decade with leather, zippers, slits, and more.


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
Moschino Painted Pencil Skirt
Donna Karan New York Pencil Skirt
Diane von Furstenberg Edna Gathered Tiger-Print Midi Skirt
Max Mara Bosso Cotton-Gabardine Midi Skirt
Ulla Johnson Ember Skirt
Miu Miu High-Rise Silk Satin Midi Skirt
Diane von Furstenberg Siella Skirt
Tod's Animal Print
A version of this story appeared in the March 2020 issue of Marie Claire.
subscribe here (opens in new tab)
RELATED STORIES
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.
-
The Ending of 'The Umbrella Academy' Season 3, Explained
The Netflix hit's finale resets its universe yet again.
By Quinci LeGardye
-
Lorde Is Now Blonde and It’s the All the Happiness We Need Right Now
She's stunning.
By Deena Campbell
-
The Jeans Brands Fashion Editors Swear By
Your search for the perfect pair of jeans is over.
By Sara Holzman
-
The 22 Jeans Brands Fashion Editors Swear By
Your search for the perfect pair of jeans is over.
By Sara Holzman
-
The 16 Best Linen Suits for Women in 2022
Sophisticated but not stuffy.
By Sara Holzman
-
The 6 Summer 2022 Handbag Trends to Get a Grip On
Logo designs, raffia fabrics, and Y2K silhouettes are front and center this season.
By Sara Holzman
-
The 19 Best Laptop Bags for Women to Take Everywhere
Yes, they exist!
By Rachel Epstein
-
The 32 Best Basket Bags for Summer 2022
The Jane Birkin-inspired silhouette has you covered for "French Girl Summer."
By Julia Marzovilla
-
The 32 Best Summer Sweaters That Are Basically Wardrobe Staples
If you don't have one of these in your closet already, now's your chance.
By Julia Marzovilla
-
25 Summer Hats That'll Instantly Transform You Into A Hat Person
Shield your face from the sun in style.
By Gabrielle Ulubay
-
The Hot Pink Fashion Trend, Decoded
The color is everywhere in 2022.
By Julia Marzovilla