From the catwalk to street style: The pencil skirt is a symbol that returns renewed

 

Designers are redefining the classic pencil skirt, turning it into the coolest and sexiest item of winter 2026.

The origins of the pencil skirt can be traced back to 1908, when Edith Hart O. Berg tied a rope around her ankles just before boarding a plane to keep her skirt steady during a flight, thus inspiring a new style.

The pencil skirt as we know it today, however, made its debut in 1954 in Christian Dior's H-line collection, a new silhouette of the era that the French couturier introduced by forming the letter H of the alphabet, thanks to the fit and emphasis on the waist. However, corresponding pieces can also be found in the collections of Cristóbal Balenciaga, who cut clothes on the body. 

The pencil skirt on the runways for Fall/Winter 2025-26

This classic piece is revitalized for Fall/Winter 2025-26.The style of the pencil skirt remains unchanged, but the designers chose to redefine details such as the length, its material, the height of the waist (high-waisted or low-waist), forming a new symbol of empowerment. The pencil skirt was combined with stiletto heels, ballerinas, loafers and transformed from a part of the corporate look into an object of desire.

Pencil skirt combinations

The pencil skirt was the focus of the Saint Laurent collection with Anthony Vaccarello playing with body proportions, emphasizing the waist and silhouette. It was combined with bold pieces such as the leopard top and pointed heels. At the Gucci show, it was presented in a lace version with a cardigan, while at Givenchy we saw the pencil skirt with dramatic crop tops.

A timeless but also completely modern skirt that has many sides, just like every woman. Feminine, cool, sporty, romantic, the pencil skirt follows every style and belongs to the wardrobe essentials.