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Stylish Ways to Wear a Pencil Skirt

Sujata Iyer
A pencil skirt is that one element in your wardrobe that can give you a cute and sexy look at the same time. Read more about this skirt.
What do Nicole Kidman, Ashley Simpson, Jessica Alba, and Jennifer Aniston have in common? Apart from the color of their hair of course. All of them can pull off a pencil skirt, even in their sleep (which may be a little difficult, to be honest). And if you've noticed, they aren't really necessarily of the same body type.
While a couple of them may be tall and have never-ending legs (sigh!), the others are of a height that most women can comfortably relate to (bless them). Some are stick-thin and some are curvaceous. So, what is this piece of clothing that can suit all body types? Let's find out here.

The Pattern
After World War II, Western women started prioritizing fashion, sometimes sacrificing comfort. The pencil skirt became a prominent trend during this period.
The pencil skirt hugs the body from the waist to below the knee, earning its name from its snug fit and elongated silhouette.
Initially somewhat like 'hobble skirts' (called so because they made women 'hobble'), this skirt was given a new name and look by Christian Dior when he termed it an H-line skirt and allowed the length to be shortened from the hobble's full length to the knee length that it is a major trend today.

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Most modern pencil skirts feature either a back slit or a side slit to facilitate easier leg movements for the wearer.

Dos and Don'ts

It must be said that wearing a pencil skirt is not for women who aren't comfortable in very snug clothing. This is because since the skirt is relatively snug and ends at the knees, it restrains swift and easy movement of the legs. Hence, while wearing a pencil skirt, you need to walk in small, quick, and defined steps.
Activities like climbing a ladder, cycling, sitting cross-legged (Indian style), etc. are nearly impossible in this skirt, so please do not attempt them.
What you can do is practice walking in high heels with a heavy book on your head, sliding into a car sideways with both your legs together, and sitting with one leg crossed over the other for a long time. These are the few activities that will not be difficult to perform wearing this skirt, but could use a little training nonetheless.

What to Wear with a Pencil Skirt
In earlier days, a pencil skirt was worn as a style statement by businesswomen. Today however, it is worn by professionals all around the world. When it comes to what to team the pencil skirt with, there are so many options.
In the past, pencil skirts were a style statement for businesswomen. Today, they're worn by professionals worldwide. As for pairing options, the possibilities are endless.

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If you're thinking retro fashion, then you can get a checkered pencil skirt and pair it with a plain top and knee-high boots.
For formal office wear, you can never go wrong with dark colors. A navy blue or black skirt with a pristine white blouse, smartly tucked in with a jacket matching the skirt makes for an elegant formal outfit.
Pencil skirt dresses are trending in fashion. Pair them with sexy boots and a stole for an extra glamorous look that flatters your curves and exudes confidence!
A pencil skirt is more of a formal attire, so avoid wearing it for casual occasions. It will restrict your movement and you won't be able to enjoy yourself. But for formal dinner parties or regular office wear, this is one of the best options!