Remember the summer of 2021? We emerged from the lockdown stasis with the promise of a "hot girl summer", and true to form the runway delivered, making a hero of the "ultra-micro-mini-skirt" (see Miu Miu SS '22). But given just how teeny tiny this controversial trend was, it wasn't exactly the most wearable, and although Instagram would have you believe that we were all wearing belts as skirts for the rest of that year, the truth was, we were in need of a skirt trend with a little more longevity.
This year it looks like things are about to get a little more polished, and one of the key buys for spring/ summer 2024 is one you'll recognise—the pencil skirt. Before you imagine the corporate and boxy skirts saved for the city set, they have undergone a new year makeover, making them sleeker and chicer. Firstly, the hemline is a little longer, so that they are more flattering than those styles that fall on the knee. Secondly, they are no longer just navy or pinstripe grey: the new wave of pencil skirts come in more adventurous prints and striking colours, but evening-ready black is topping the agenda. And then when it comes to fabrications, many designers like Courréges, Khaite and Gucci have loosened up the form by opting for slick, power leather over office-appropriate wool, further proof these skirts are no longer just for work—we're wearing them for play too.
Take a look at the street style set and you'll see pencil skirts paired with tank tops, tees, cardigans and blazers (which just so happen to make a perfect weekend brunch look too). So, should you be looking for a new skirt trend to refresh your wardrobe for 2024, keep scrolling to see how designers are re-working the pencil skirt and where you can shop the trend.
1. THE LONG PENCIL SKIRT
Style Notes: What happens when you take a simple pencil skirt and combine it with 2023's micro trend, the maxi skirt? In short (no pun intended), the chicest skirt style to happen to our wardrobes since the slip midi. No matter how you wear it, this calf-skimming long skirt always looks polished, but on the runways and street style we've seen it most commonly paired with a boxy blazer and jersey top. Effortlessly elegant.
SHOP LONG PENCIL SKIRTS:
The hero piece in this co-ord is undoubtedly the skirt.
You know if the Frankie Shop are doing it, it's about to be everywhere.
Just add a blazer and tank top.
Yes! There's denim too!
I love the subtle cargo detailing.
2. THE LEATHER PENCIL SKIRT
Style Notes: Love leather trousers? Then you'll appreciate the ladylike look of the leather pencil skirt. This skirt does all of the talking, so all you need is a basic jumper and a knee-high boot to carry off one of the strongest runway looks of the season. (Bonus points if you manage to incorporate one of winter's biggest colour trends too: hot red, chocolate brown or slate grey).
SHOP LEATHER PENCIL SKIRTS:
I'm about to copy this entire look.
Cream leather always looks expensive.
The glossy finish will elevate any outfit.
A strong contender for best leather skirt on the high street.
This berry shade is surprisingly versatile.
3. THE BLACK PENCIL SKIRT
Style Notes: And last, but no means least, an oldie but a goody—a classic black pencil skirt. It might not come out as often as a pair of wide-leg trousers, and it might not have the casual appeal of a pair of jeans, but there's an argument that this timeless skirt should be considered a wardrobe staple for it's staying power alone. These skirts simply never go out of style, and whether you're dressing it up with heels or throwing on a ballet flat, you won't regret having this piece in your wardrobe for years to come.
SHOP BLACK PENCIL SKIRTS:
Tailored to perfection.
You'll find me in this exact outfit for the next couple of months.
You can't argue with that price.
When you're looking for a cosy-casual piece, reach for jersey.
Up Next, 13 Elegant Pieces That Will Make Your Wardrobe a More Luxurious Place
