"Boring!" you exclaim when asked about your office-imposed dress code. Well, we're here to tell you that there's sooo much room to play around...long as you try hard enough! Call it a daily style exercise. Below, check out three chic, wearable, work-appropriate looks we spun with one of the most enduring foundations of your nine-to-five wardrobe: the pencil skirt.
Okay, so this is how you usually wear yours. Right?
IMAGE Gerard Dungo
Blazer, P1195, FOREVER 21, SM Megamall. Button-down, P1695, H&M, SM Mega Fashion Hall. Pencil skirt, P2295, WEAVE, Shangri-la Plaza East Wing. Pumps, P2199, CHARLES & KEITH, Greenbelt 5
SWEET TOOTH
Nothing's wrong with the classics, of course, but you've got to admit that by now you're probably craving some fun. Your wish is our command! First, allow us to suggest something soft and infinitely dainty.
The star of this look is undoubtedly that subtly colorful tweed skirt—here's your cue to invest in materials other than your usual! Texture always lends a bit of uniqueness to an outfit, and we love that fringe detail at the hem. Team with a demure, au courant pussybow blouse in a trendy print (polka dots, in this case!) and cute metallic, low-heeled Mary Janes.
IMAGE Gerard Dungo
Printed blouse with bow, P1495; Tweed pencil skirt, P2495, both ZARA, Greenbelt 5. Metallic Mary Janes, P2399, CHARLES & KEITH, Greenbelt 5
THE '90S ARE CALLING
Don't shy away from playing with lengths! This circa-1995 working girl, skirt suit-inspired OOTD gets interesting via that asymmetrical detail and the replacement of a typical blazer with a gorgeous boxy jacket. So much character.
Also, remember that there's no need to be constantly collared! Opt some days for a striped button-up top (that you can also wear on sunny weekends out) for a summery yet modest touch.
IMAGE Gerard Dungo
Boxy tweed jacket, P3495; striped top, P1995, both ZARA, Greenbelt 5. Asymmetrical pencil skirt, P2295, WEAVE, Shangri-la East Wing
NEUTRALIZE
So you prefer sticking to dark, subdued tones, and we don't blame you. We can work around that, no problem! Here's an idea: get the best of both worlds and select a trusty new blazer that's a cool cross between fallback black and the season's favored checks. Also, you've got to zoom in on those sleeves.
Instead of a shirt, try a knit for extra style points! Pro tip: Pick a sleeveless version to avoid overheating, then tuck into a skirt that's black but so not basic—and totally ready for after-hours drinks, too. No need to bring extra threads for that night out you're looking forward to!
IMAGE Gerard Dungo
Checked blazer, P2690, H&M, SM Mega Fashion Hall. Knit sweater, P2295; Asymmetrical pencil skirt, P2295, both WEAVE, Shangri-la Plaza East Wing. Faux snakeskin pumps, P899.75, PARISIAN, The SM Store
Photographed by Gerard Dungo
Styled and produced by Yanna Lopez
Art direction by Mark Buenaobra
Hair and makeup by Hanna Pechon
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