Pattern Favourites: Pencil Skirt Sewing Patterns

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Pencil skirts are a classic and timeless piece of women’s clothing known for their sleek, form-fitting silhouette. You know them as typically straight and narrow, hugging the curves of the body from the waist down to the knees or slightly below. They often feature a high waistline, creating a flattering and elongating effect on the wearer’s figure. The skirt usually has a single vent or slit at the back or sometimes on the side, allowing for ease of movement.

Pencil skirts can be made from a variety of fabrics, including wool, cotton, polyester blends, silk, and more. The choice of fabric can greatly influence the skirt’s overall look and feel, with options ranging from structured and tailored to soft and stretchy. We have sewing patterns for a wide range of fabrics like brocade, denim, wool, and jersey or stretch fabrics.

The pencil skirt became popular in the late 1940s and early 1950s, following World War II. It is credited to Christian Dior, who introduced the “H-line” silhouette in his 1954 collection, featuring narrow skirts that hugged the body’s curves. The pencil skirt quickly became a symbol of femininity and elegance, favoured by women in both professional and social settings. Check out our best-selling pencil skirt sewing patterns: