A pencil skirt is a slim-fitting skirt with a straight, narrow cut. Generally the hem falls to, or is just below, the knee and is tailored for a close fit. It is named for its shape: long and slim like a pencil.

The pencil skirt may be worn either as a separate piece of clothing or as part of a suit. The slim, narrow shape of a pencil skirt can restrict the movement of the wearer so pencil skirts often have a slit at the back, or less commonly at the sides. Sometimes a pleat, which exposes less skin, is used instead of a slit.

Some classic shoes for wearing with a pencil skirt are pumps, or high heels,with sheer stockings or tights. Back-seamed hosiery recalls the classic pencil-skirt era of the 1950s.

Pencil skirts can also be worn with flats for a more casual, youthful appearance that echoes the 1960s. Pencil skirts and loafers are classic “Prep.”

21 Gorgeous Pencil skirt to Make You Stylish