Pencil Skirts Are Officially Cool Again

Longer hemlines continue to reign supreme with the pencil skirt’s triumphant return, and the latest corpcore trend is ready to prove its versatility beyond office walls. The streamlined silhouette—first popularized by Christian Dior in 1954—is presented in a range of textures and below-the-knee lengths for Pre-Fall 2025, bringing a touch of form-fitting vintage charm to contemporary looks.

Khaite opts for an edgier all-black take, with an oversized leather jacket zipped over a brushed knit maxi. Stella McCartney also takes a modest approach, styling a structured, croc-embossed midi with tall boots and a turtleneck, while Kallmeyer goes the midriff-baring route, pairing a calf-skimming satin number with a boxy cropped jacket. 

At Courrèges, a very low-rise khaki midi is worn with a sheer lace top, proving that today's pencil skirts easily translate from business casual to party mode. If that reminds you of the corporate clubwear trend of the early 2000s, well, take solace in the fact that peplum tops are no longer required (although it is worth noting that those have been making a comeback of their own).

Keep scrolling to shop editor-approved options that serve as further evidence that the pencil skirt has transcended its former 9-to-5 confines, for good.

An update to the classic black pencil skirt, this Dries Van Noten knee-length style is designed to be as comfortable as it is elegant. Also available in red, it’s crafted from lightweight stretch-silk satin and has an elastic waistband, to boot.

Dries Van Noten Stretch-Silk Satin Skirt, $620, Net-A-Porter

For something that subtly plays with texture, look no further than Smythe’s bone-hued midi. The partially lined mid-rise pencil skirt is covered in appliqué florals and has a contrasting black waistband that lends itself to limitless styling options.

SMYTHE Applique Pencil Skirt, $795, Smythe

In the incredibly on-trend shade of butter yellow, this Veronica Beard pencil skirt brings the party and then some. Its fishnet-like overlay features glittering beads and sequins that effortlessly highlight movement, and with a convenient slit at the back, it’s ready for the dance floor.

Veronica Beard Allora Embellished Midi Skirt, $750, MyTheresa

No one serves up chicer office-adjacent attire than Banana Republic. This tailored pencil skirt is made from responsibly sourced wool and features a high-rise waist darted waist. A tried-and-true classic, it even comes in assorted neutral shades.

Banana Republic Siena Wool Pencil Skirt, $140, Banana Republic

This L’Agence pencil skirt offers a more sophisticated take on naked dressing. The chiffon lace features a delicate floral pattern, and its scalloped hem makes it all the more interesting. It’s also fully lined, so it’s not actually a fashion risk.

L'Agence Royal Lace Pencil Skirt, $425, L'Agence

McQueen’s black wool pencil skirt might seem basic from the front, but in the back, it features a row of buttons that runs its entire length. It’s an easy way to dip your toes into the backwards-dressing trend without committing to anything too out-there.

McQueen Button-Back Midi Pencil Skirt, $1,100, Neiman Marcus

If you do want to show a bit more skin, Frame’s silk organza number is a great way to do it. The alabaster pencil skirt is made from drapey silk, and it’s sheer from the thighs down. Consider it the perfect summer option. 

Frame the Silk Organza Skirt, $498, Frame 

Proving that not all pencil skirts have to be structured, Favorite Daughter’s pull-on ribbed knit version skims the body without being constricting. In an easy navy hue, it features a semi-sheer pattern and hits just above the ankle.

Favorite Daughter The Courtside Skirt, $198, Saks Fifth Ave