Why are they called pencil skirts?

They are called pencil skirts because their long, narrow, straight silhouette resembles the clean, slim shape of a pencil.

What year did pencil skirts become popular?

Pencil skirts became popular in the 1950s after Christian Dior introduced the shape in his late-1940s H-Line collection.

Why do pencil skirts have slits in the back?

They have back slits to make walking and sitting easier, since the narrow cut would otherwise restrict movement.

Is a pencil skirt formal or smart casual?

Pencil skirts sit comfortably in the smart-casual and business-casual category, and while they’re not typically formalwear, they can work for cocktail settings when made in dressier fabrics.

What tops look good with a pencil skirt?

Crisp blouses, fine-knit sweaters, turtlenecks, and simple tucked-in T-shirts all pair well with a pencil skirt, depending on how polished the outfit needs to be.

What body type looks best in pencil skirts?

Pencil skirts suit many body types, especially hourglass and curvy figures, and they also flatter straighter builds by defining the waist.

Pencil Skirts

STYLISH PENCIL SKIRTS FOR WOMEN

Pencil skirts are a must-have in a woman's wardrobe. May it be your officewear or a romantic date ensemble, pencil skirts can make your outfit look better. A good pencil skirt can immediately make an outfit more chic while being effortless. Its timeless silhouette makes it easy for a woman to mix and match, to complement their own unique style. Pencil skirts complement every body type especially when worn right. Different brands, styles, colors, patterns, materials, and lengths are readily available on ZALORA Philippines.

PENCIL SKIRTS FOR ALL STYLES AND OCCASION

Pencil skirts can be worn by anyone at any time. Its narrow cut can help accentuate your figure while keeping that sophisticated look. When paired with a simple t-shirt, it can elevate your look to a more dressy vibe. You can also wear it during your night out with friends for a stylish evening look. If you want to be more casual, you can go for denim pencil skirts that give off that ultimate girl-next-door look. Cotton skirts help you achieve that chill look, while a classic tapered skirt can help give off a smart and professional look. Use it as a statement piece in your outfit with the various lengths, colors, styles, and materials that fit your taste.

Are Pencils Skirts Only For Work?

While pencil skirts are often synomous with workwear, they can be wear for a night out as well. They have a timeless, classy appeal and a versatile makeup. Ultimately, it's how you wear it and what you pear with it that pulls the entire outfit together.

Features and Benefits

One of the most appealing aspects of pencil skirts is their tailored fit. Designed to hug the body's natural contours, these skirts create a slimming and elongating effect, flattering various body types. The structured silhouette not only accentuates the waistline but also creates a streamlined and polished appearance.

Beyond their flattering fit, pencil skirts also exude a sense of professional appeal. They are a staple in many office dress codes, making them an ideal choice for women in the workforce. Whether attending meetings, client presentations, or important events, a well-fitted pencil skirt conveys confidence and sophistication.

Pencil Skirt Outfit Ideas

Pencil skirts offer a versatile canvas for creating various looks, from office-appropriate ensembles to casual-chic outfits.

Office Wear: To achieve a polished and professional look, pair a pencil skirt with a crisp blouse, button-down shirt, or a tailored blazer. Accessorize with a statement belt or elegant jewelry to add a touch of personality. For a more conservative look, opt for a knee-length pencil skirt in neutral tones like black, navy, or gray.

Fabric and Material Options

Pencil skirts are available in a range of fabrics and materials, each offering its own unique benefits and properties.

Classic Fabrics: Wool, cotton, and polyester blends are popular choices for pencil skirts due to their durability and breathability. Wool skirts provide warmth and structure, making them ideal for cooler months, while cotton and polyester blends offer comfort and ease of care.

Modern Variations: For a more contemporary and edgy look, consider pencil skirts crafted from faux leather or stretchy knit fabrics. Faux leather adds a touch of edginess, while knit materials provide flexibility and comfort, making them perfect for everyday wear.

Length and Silhouette Variations

While the traditional pencil skirt length hits at or slightly below the knee, modern fashion has introduced various silhouettes to cater to different styles and preferences.

Classic Length: The knee-length pencil skirt exudes timeless elegance and is a versatile choice for both professional and casual settings. Style it with a tucked-in blouse or sweater for a polished and sophisticated look.

Modern Silhouettes: For a more contemporary and fashion-forward approach, opt for mini or midi-length pencil skirts. Mini pencil skirts add a flirty and youthful touch, while midi-length skirts offer a trendy and elongating silhouette.

Seasonal Considerations

The beauty of pencil skirts lies in their ability to seamlessly transition from season to season with a few simple styling adjustments.

Year-Round Wear: During cooler months, layer pencil skirts with tights or leggings for added warmth and to create a sleek and polished look. In warmer weather, opt for lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen, which offer breathability and comfort.

Types Of Pencil Skirts

Pencil Skirt Type	Category	Key Features	Primary Formality & Use
Knee-Length Pencil Skirt (Classic)	By Length	- Hem hits at or just below the knee - Follows the natural line of the body from waist to hem - Often includes a back slit or vent for movement	- Highly professional - Standard for office wear, business meetings, and formal cocktail events - Considered the most iconic pencil skirt length
Midi-Length Pencil Skirt	By Length	- Extends to mid-calf or just below the calf muscle - Maintains slim, narrow silhouette - Often styled with heels to balance the longer length	- Modern & sophisticated - Popular in evening wear and elevated smart-casual looks - Can visually elongate the body when paired with heels
Mini-Length Pencil Skirt	By Length	- Ends well above the knee (around mid-thigh) - Narrow, body-following cut - Offers more leg exposure while keeping a pencil silhouette	- Casual & youthful - Suited for weekends, parties, and informal outings - Generally not appropriate for most professional settings
Suiting / Wool-Blend Pencil Skirt	By Fabric & Texture	- Structured wool, stretch wool crepe, or polyester/rayon blends - Holds a sharp, tailored line - Usually fully lined for comfort and shape	- Formal office attire - Ideal for business suits and corporate environments - Often seen as the "classic" work pencil skirt
Ponte / Knit Pencil Skirt	By Fabric & Texture	- Thick, double-knit viscose or jersey blends with high stretch - Soft, flexible, and body-skimming - Typically does not require a back slit or vent due to stretch	- Comfort-focused - Great for long days, commuting, or smart-casual dress codes - Popular modern alternative to stiff suiting fabrics
Leather / Faux Leather Pencil Skirt	By Fabric & Texture	- Made from smooth or textured genuine leather or vegan leather - Structured yet body-hugging - Often features seams or panels for shaping	- Edgy & statement-making - Ideal for date nights, nights out, or smart-casual looks - Commonly styled with casual tees, blouses, or knits
Denim Pencil Skirt	By Fabric & Texture	- Stretch denim in various washes (dark, light, coated, etc.) - More casual construction with typical denim detailing (pockets, seams) - May feature a front or back slit for ease of movement	- Casual & durable - Most relaxed, dressed-down version of a pencil skirt - Works well for weekend wear and casual outings
Slit / Vent Pencil Skirt	By Tailoring Detail	- Includes a small slit or vent - Most commonly placed at the center back, sometimes at the side - Allows easier walking and sitting in a narrow skirt	- Functional tailoring - Essential in non-stretch or structured fabrics - Common in office-appropriate and formal pencil skirts
Kick Pleat Pencil Skirt	By Tailoring Detail	- Uses a tailored pleat instead of a simple open slit - Pleat is usually placed at the back hem - Offers controlled flare when walking	- More refined than a basic slit - Adds a polished, classic finish - Often seen in higher-end or more formal suiting skirts
Ruched / Gathered Pencil Skirt	By Tailoring Detail	- Fabric is gathered or ruched, often at the side seam or waistline - Creates texture and visual interest - Softens the appearance of a very fitted silhouette	- Figure-friendly & forgiving - Helps disguise tightness and minor lines - Suitable for both smart-casual and evening wear, depending on fabric
Iconic Pencil Skirt	Signature Combination	- Knee-length - Wool-blend suiting fabric - Features a back vent or kick pleat - Structured, tailored waistband and darts for shaping	- Widely recognized as the classic pencil skirt - Ideal for professional environments and formal occasions - Modern versions often updated in stretchy knits for extra comfort

Brands and Designers

Many fashion brands and designers have embraced the timeless allure of pencil skirts, offering a wide range of styles, fabrics, and price points.

Top Brands for Pencil Skirts: Well-known labels like Zara, H&M, and Uniqlo offer affordable yet stylish pencil skirt options, catering to various budgets. For a more luxurious experience, consider designer brands like Balmain, Gucci, or Michael Kors, which offer high-quality materials and impeccable craftsmanship.

Say Yes To More Skirts

Never say never to more skirts. Pencil skirts can only help you nail the formal attire. On other days, you'll need more options to do other styles. Elevate your ensemble with our diverse array of skirts, offering a multitude of styles to suit any occasion. The structured elegance of a fitted skirt accentuates your curves and exudes sophistication, perfect for both professional and evening wear. For a laid-back yet chic look, opt for the relaxed charm of a denim skirt, versatile enough to pair with casual tops or dressier blouses. Add a touch of playful sophistication with a pleated skirt, offering graceful movement and timeless appeal. Embrace athletic chic with a tennis skirt, ideal for on-the-go days or weekend outings. For a flirty and feminine vibe, choose a mini skirt, while a maxi skirt offers dramatic flair and effortless elegance. For a versatile option that transitions seamlessly from day to night, opt for a midi skirt, pairing perfectly with your favorite blazer or statement trousers. Otherwise, dresses are another great choice too if you hate the hassle of pairing.

SHOP WOMEN’S PENCIL SKIRTS AT ZALORA Philippines

Discover your new favorite from a wide array of pencil skirts available now. Shop now at ZALORA Philippines and find the perfect pencil skirt for you, all at the comfort of your own home. We'll deliver it right at your home or office with free shipping over P1295 and the convenient option of Cash On Delivery. Not sure about the sizing? You may return your item with our 30 days free return policy. Purchase now online and get the best deals and discounts for the latest clothing, shoes, bags, and accessories only here at ZALORA Philippines.

Pencil Skirt at ZALORA Philippines - FAQs

Why are they called pencil skirts?: They are called pencil skirts because their long, narrow, straight silhouette resembles the clean, slim shape of a pencil.
What year did pencil skirts become popular?: Pencil skirts became popular in the 1950s after Christian Dior introduced the shape in his late-1940s H-Line collection.
Why do pencil skirts have slits in the back?: They have back slits to make walking and sitting easier, since the narrow cut would otherwise restrict movement.
Is a pencil skirt formal or smart casual?: Pencil skirts sit comfortably in the smart-casual and business-casual category, and while they’re not typically formalwear, they can work for cocktail settings when made in dressier fabrics.
What tops look good with a pencil skirt?: Crisp blouses, fine-knit sweaters, turtlenecks, and simple tucked-in T-shirts all pair well with a pencil skirt, depending on how polished the outfit needs to be.
What body type looks best in pencil skirts?: Pencil skirts suit many body types, especially hourglass and curvy figures, and they also flatter straighter builds by defining the waist.

Check Out What Else Is Trending In Fashion

Summer Clothes | Elegant Dress | Black Blazer For Women |