The pencil skirt is back and chicer than ever and these 11 styles will add polish to your outfits, from £40

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'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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.