Fashioned Frum: The New Pencil Skirt

Pencil skirts are all the rage this Fall and we are seeing both the traditional version and an interesting new breed which include a lot of drape to complement the recent trend of looser clothing and lots of layers. The good news about this development is that it holds the fabric away from the body slightly so it is flattering on most. It also adds just enough volume as to be more comfortable in the event you ate too much ice cream last night.

1. (Left) Egyptian Night Pencil Skirt, $208 by Fuchsia at http://www.fuchsiaonline.com/

2. (Center) Rollin Skirt, $168 by French Connection at http://www.frenchconnection.com/

3. (Right) Grecian Draped Skirt, (on sale) $9.99 by Mossimo at http://www.target.com/

Here are a few examples of interesting pencil shapes from the Fall shows. Notice in addition the Dries Van Noten and Haider Ackermann looks both include modest tops.

Left to Right: Haider Ackermann, Givenchy, Dries Van Noten, all from Fall 2009 runway shows. (http://www.style.com/)

While the Haider Ackermann show was one of my favorite from that season, the Dries Van Noten look above is a favorite. The way the metallic is played against the dusty rose is very elegant.

Hold on to your traditional pencil skirts, however, and if you don't own one, now is the time to invest! They happen to be particularly on trend at the moment, but the look never goes out of style and is definitely a smart purchase. Depending on the fabric (of course) and how you layer and style your outfit, they can generally be worn either casual or dressy.

Left to right: Thakoon, Calvin Klein, Carolina Herrera, all from the Fall 2009 runway shows. (http://www.style.com/)

Here are some examples from the Runways about how the traditional pencil skirt is being worn and modernized. At Thakoon, we saw vivid hues and in this example a cobalt skirt to play off of the other bright colors. In both Thakoon and Calvin Klein, the pencil skirt serves to balance the full top, whether it be fur or a structured jacket. Carolina Herrera uses the skirt as a classic to accent her belted and layered look which could look too chunky with a fuller option.