The neat silhouette means you can afford to approach colour and pattern like a maximalist. ... Diane Von Furstenberg striped stretch-knit pencil skirt, £319, Matchesfashion.com.

The pencil skirt is back in a big way this season, via Prada, Gucci, Fendi, Erdem and Calvin Klein. ... Ribbed knit skirt, £348, Victoria Beckham at Net-a-Porter. SHOP NOW.