We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
The pencil skirt is back and chicer than ever and these 11 styles will add polish to your outfits, from £40
The 2026 pencil skirt is a little looser and cooler
The pencil skirt is well and truly back for autumn 2026 (and it's been everywhere on the spring/summer 2027 catwalks too, so it's not going anywhere). But, before you reach for the Rennies, this isn't the same pencil skirt we once knew. It's no longer uncomfortably rigid, boxy and prone to giving you indigestion if worn too long.
The 2026 version of the pencil skirt, which some are calling the 'soft power pencil' is looser and longer. It's also much more attention seeking, whether it's covered in bold florals and tassels, or finished in a leather croc-effect and fuzzy zebra print. It's the new midi, the new kilt, the new statement trouser. Wear with a soft cashmere knit and shirt, or a chunky jumper, and add kitten heels or a riding boot.
Welcome to the era of the soft power pencil – these are the best styles to shop now, from Boden, M&S, Jigsaw and more.
Best Deal
M&S Satin Floral Knee Length Slip Skirt
M&S Satin Floral Knee Length Slip Skirt
This is what we mean when we say the fit is a little looser. While this slip skirt still has the pencil shape, it's a little more forgiving, a more contemporary. We love it styled with a cosy black jumper and kitten heels.
Boden Column Wrap Skirt Brown, Blue and Orange Check
Boden Column Wrap Skirt Brown, Blue and Orange Check
Boden's mid-length column skirt looks so cosy and elegant. It sits loosely on the waist rather than constricting the stomach and would look gorgeous with a pair of autumn boots and a burnt orange or navy jumper.
Jigsaw Linen Blend Pinstripe Tailored Skirt
Jigsaw Linen Blend Pinstripe Tailored Skirt
If you are looking for a style that works for the office, this Jigsaw pin-stripe skirt would look fabulous with a crisp white shirt or a polo knit and snakeskin heels.
Essentiel Antwerp Green and black sequin-embellished pencil skirt
Essentiel Antwerp Green and black sequin-embellished pencil skirt
This is a real investment piece but you can wear this sequin skirt all year round. Pair with a grey or black knit (we love this grey and green floral jacquard sweater) and some low black or pink kitten heels for a very chic take on the pencil skirt.
Whistles Black Fringe Textured Midi Skirt
Whistles Black Fringe Textured Midi Skirt
This is an example of the longer style of column skirt that's popular this season. The fringe detail makes it extra special – we'd wear with a white shirt and heels for a laidback Carolyn Bessette Kennedy-inspired look for evening, but it would also work for daytime with boots and a simple black polo neck.
Zara Faux Fur Midi Skirt
Zara Faux Fur Midi Skirt
This is an example of how high impact the soft power pencil can be. In a zebra print faux fur, there's nothing shy and retiring about this mid-length skirt but the softer fabric makes it cosier than the traditional pencil skirt. Wear with a simple black jumper and boots or mix it with a pop of turquoise or red.
Massimo Dutti 100% wool check midi skirt with pleat detail
Massimo Dutti 100% wool check midi skirt with pleat detail
This is the relaxed new style that makes the pencil skirt 2.0 so wearable. The pleat detail at the front means you're not stuck taking small steps, yet you still have the elegant pencil shape. Pair with a cosy polo knit (like this affordable style from M&S) and pointed ballet flats.
H&M Coated Pencil Skirt
This is more of a traditional pencil skirt, but it's all in the way you wear it. We'd size up for a bit more room and then pair with a loose layer on top, such as boxy tee or a slouchy knit.
ZW Collection Straight Skirt
ZW Collection Straight Skirt
You can't get much simpler than this straight black pencil skirt. Just add a fine knit or T-shirt and kitten heels for a classic, elegant daytime look.
M&S Floral Embellished Midi Pencil Skirt
M&S Floral Embellished Midi Pencil Skirt
This embellished style is inspired by some of the pieces seen at brands like Erdem. It would look gorgeous for party season – we'd wear with a silver heel and a simple mink coloured knit.
If you're not sure about Zara's faux-fur version, try Massimo Dutti's flowing zebra print pencil skirt instead. Relaxed but attention-grabbing, it sums up the soft power pencil skirt for autumn.
The bomber jacket gets a tailored update
Barrel leg trousers get a cord update for winter
The Princess of Wales looks chic in tartan
Cosy and colourful jumpers are a must-have
