In a time when the mini skirt has become so ubiquitous within our generation, the pencil skirt feels fresh, clean, and new. And Gosh, are we delighted! With the onset of Christian Dior’s classic fitted below the knee style, women in the workforce took to wearing the sleek separate for a demure, yet still feminine appearance in the office. Today the pencil skirt has been re-invented; with contemporary designers playing with its shape and proportion to create a new silhouette with the same demure, yet womanly feel. Prada has been experimenting with it for years, and Marc Jacobs (for his own line and for Louis Vuitton) sent models of all ages and body types down the runway wearing not a single above the knee hemline.

A pencil skirt adds curves, creates long slimming lines and accentuates all the places that should be shown off! The pencil skirt is riding a high wave of modesty, modernity, and femininity!

From Meeting To Evening.
With the seemingly magical powers of a pencil skirt to slim the legs, accentuate the hips, and narrow the waist, it is one of the most flattering pieces for women who, like most of us do, has a curvy, voluptuous shape. Flattering the right areas and minimizing the less desirable ones, a pencil skirt lends a woman confidence and the ability to embrace her figure. The best option for women looking to bask in the becoming qualities of a pencil skirt are high-waisted cuts, ideal for tucking in a blouse or silk top, high-lighting the waist and smoothing the line of the hips.

This skirt by Kiyonna means business. A leader in the plus-size clothing market, Kiyonna brings sophisticated style to the curvier woman. We love this secretarial inspired  skirt, as the silhouette is an easy piece to pull together a classic ensemble of skirt, tucked top and kitten heels. The tucked in fitted blouse, topped off with A wide belt worn high on the waist, accentuates the hourglass structures of your body. This sophisticated design will be an approachable and memorable look for the board room.

STYLE TIP: Try pairing the pencil skirt with a cardigan set, and don’t assume the twinset must match!  If your skirt is navy, go with a mustard-colored, slightly over-sized cardigan and a turtleneck or camisole in a neutral color. Next, close the sweater at the waistline with a skinny belt that matches the skirt and shoes and Viola, you are put together, modest and sleek!

On The Square.
The pencil skirt gets its rather boring name from its straight cut. Looking at it on a hangar, it appears as exciting as it sounds. Yet once you actually put the piece of fabric on your body, it is clear why no one has forgotten the pencil skirt. With it’s opposite A-line effect, hip-hugging and narrowing at the knees, the skirt lets the wearer and everyone else operate under the impression that your legs are miles long underneath your chic skirt. This is a little trickier if you are under 5’6, so take it one step further and slip on a stacked, wedge, or classic high-heel to keep the look working.

Christian Cota is influenced by the simplistic grace of nature, blending organic forms with clean shapes. His passion for pure elegance sculpted his collection for Spring 2010. This vintage inspired outfit is one to covet. We really love the ruched skirt paired with the the long sleeve top with its sweet white collar. This outfit is perfect for a sunny Sunday at Church, followed by an afternoon of leisure at Temple Square.

STYLE TIP: Spring time winds may blow over The Great Salt Lake so be sure to pick a jacket that works. A pencil skirt accents the waist, so the jacket should do the same.  Anything over-sized or chunky will swallow up the curvy shape, so pick a coat that hits at mid-thigh that either ties or is belted at the waist.  For a more casual weekend, choose a cropped jean or khaki skirt that gives an air of informality, while still making you look great!

Positively Pattern.
The print is back with a vengeance for Spring 2010, and the styles are endless. From batik to tribal to floral to animal, there is pattern and color combination to suit many a tastes. Prints are meant to be playful and fun, and have the ability to be a more fashion forward choice over the traditional black or grey solid colors.  When paired with neutral tops and accessories, it is slightly daring and always chic. Basic black tunics, crisp white blouses, or chocolate brown twinsets are a perfect compliment to a loud pattern. A gladiator sandal, peep-toe mule, or neutral kitten-heel completes the ensemble, keeping it office appropriate with a serious flare

Nicole Farhi’s collection is quite eccentric, with color and shapes defining her Spring 2010 collection. Her styles for women’s ready to wear has has made a lasting impression on us. We love this matisse silk skirt for its beautiful bold floral print and scallop detail. The hemline falls right above the knee, and compared to most pencil skirts, is a bit looser in fit, which could be a more comfortable option for day wear. We also love the color block top and vibrant over sized square silk scarf. The colors work to create a playful palette while making a bold statement!

STYLE TIP: The look is all about color. Pair the skirt with a brightly hued cap-sleeved sweater; try a pair of pumps in a color other than black; or add bold, colorful lucite bangles. Just remember when the overall feel is for color, let the patterned item remain singular. Solid speaks volumes with a busy piece.

Geared for Gala
Upon their bold introduction to women’s fashion, pencil skirts were embraced for their functionality, comfort, and sophistication. Despite the fact that we are free to play with the fit, color, and use of this piece, the original elegance of the black, fitted pencil skirt still remains a relevant and desired look. The extreme versatility of black means that you choose what goes with it; from chiffon to satin, to velvet and cashmere, mixing fabrics and textures is not a problem with the uber-chic black pencil skirt.

This skirt by CH Carolina Herrera is a shining example of versatility. It has the capability to be paired with multiple styles of tops, shoes, and accessories. Depending on the look you desire, you can choose to wear a tight-fitting or a loose shirt, for either a curve-accentuating or more relaxed modest appearance.

STYLE TIP: High heels are a pencil skirt’s best friend. You can pair up your skirt with a sleek, leather stiletto, high heel sandal or any other heel depending on the occasion and the purpose. If it is a professional environment, then it is best paired with high heel pumps. For a night out, try a strappy sandal with some adornment, and for a casual day-date an espadrille wedge looks perfect!

A well-tailored pencil skirt is the backbone of a woman’s modest wardrobe. Flattering, comfortable, and classic, it is one of the few garments that has stood the test of time, worn by women from one generation to the next.  Its adaptability come from the freedom you have to style it however you wish. The power and sophistication it brings serve to empower women and assert their femininity with discreet grace. Confidence is one’s appearance can speak volumes to others, but most importantly to one’s self. At the end of the day, A little pencil skirt goes a long way!