What could be more sophisticated than the long, lean lines of a pencil skirt? Audrey Hepburn made this look trendy back in the 1940s and these sleek, fitted skirts are still gracing the pages of fashion magazines today. Although you can find pencil skirts in a variety of colors, if you could only choose one, the obvious choice is black. Need some ideas on how to pull off this look? Here’s how to wear a black pencil skirt.
Wear a black pencil skirt: Get the right fit.
A black pencil skirt is meant to hug the lines of your body without being overly tight. Spend some time trying on a variety of pencil skirts and walking around in them before making your final selection. The skirt should accent your shape without being constrictive or uncomfortable. The straight lines of the skirt can make walking a challenge if you select one that’s too snug. To prevent this, look for one that has a discrete slit in the back to allow your legs to move more freely. Don’t give up comfort for fashion.
Wear a black pencil skirt: Keep the lines clean.
A slim pencil skirt looks best with a simple top that plays up the sleek, sophisticated lines of the skirt. For office wear, pair it with a stretch top and a bold, silver cuff bracelet. With a basic black pencil skirt choose a top in a bright color or create a sleek, ultra-sophisticated look with a fitted black top and a silk scarf tied at the neck. A silk blouse that buttons up the front is a good choice for an office environment or a business lunch. If you’re feeling more daring, pair it with a leopard or other animal print top and black pumps for evening. Think sleek, clean, and sophisticated with a pencil skirt.
Wear a black pencil skirt: Turn it into a suit.
A long, black pencil skirt looks chic paired with a shorter, fitted jacket that’s nipped in at the waistline. Think of the jackets worn by sophisticated women in the 1940’s. Check out a vintage clothing store that sells 1940’s apparel and choose a jacket that buttons at the waistline and flairs slightly at the hips. Slip on black hose and black pumps to complete the look. Tres chic.
Wear a black pencil skirt: Choose simple shoes.
A black pencil skirt looks best with simple shoes. Keep your gladiators in the closet and bring out a pair of simple high-heeled pumps instead. Avoid sandals with straps that can cut the line of your legs. Pencil skirts worn with complicated shoes can make your legs look shorter and destroy the clean, sophisticated line you’re trying to achieve. In general, heels look better than flat shoes with pencil skirts, although you may be able to pull off the look with a pair of ballet flats.
Wear a black pencil skirt: Go light on the jewelry.
Resist the urge to pile on the jewelry when you wear a pencil skirt. Keep the look sleek and simple with one or two bold sculptural pieces such as a flared cuff bracelet in silver or a strand of oversized pearls. Resist the urge to layer necklaces or wear overly ornate pieces. Keep the focus on your neck, wrist, or ears, but not all three. Simple is better when wearing a pencil skirt.
You’ll love the versatility that a pencil skirt offers and when you have one in black, you’re ready for almost any occasion. Enjoy wearing this classic look!
