Worthington Pencil Skirt

How I Discovered the Perfect Balance of Style, Comfort, and Versatility

As I stand in front of my bedroom mirror, giving my outfit a final once-over before heading to an important client meeting, I can’t help but smile. My trusty charcoal Worthington pencil skirt has, yet again, come to my rescue. The sleek silhouette, the perfect fit, the way it makes me feel both powerful and feminine—it’s no wonder this wardrobe staple has earned its prime real estate in my closet.

But my relationship with the Worthington pencil skirt wasn’t love at first sight. Oh no. It was a journey of discovery, trial and error, and eventually, unabashed devotion. And today, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about finding the perfect Worthington pencil skirt for your body, budget, and lifestyle—because every woman deserves this level of sartorial satisfaction.

What Exactly Is a Worthington Pencil Skirt?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, let’s clarify what makes a Worthington pencil skirt special. Worthington is a private label brand carried by JCPenney, known for creating classic, office-appropriate attire that bridges the gap between trendy and timeless. Their pencil skirts, in particular, have gained something of a cult following among working women like myself.

The pencil skirt silhouette itself is nothing new—it’s been a fashion mainstay since the 1950s. But what Worthington does brilliantly is marry that classic shape with modern fabrics, thoughtful detailing, and an inclusive size range that serves real women’s bodies.

I remember my first encounter with a Worthington pencil skirt. I was fresh out of college, embarking on my first corporate job, and desperately in need of professional attire that wouldn’t drain my meager entry-level salary. A colleague with impeccable style mentioned Worthington, and curious, I made my way to JCPenney that weekend.

The moment I tried on that first black Worthington pencil skirt, something clicked. The fabric felt substantial but not bulky, the cut flattered my curves without clinging uncomfortably, and the price tag made me do a double-take in the best possible way. I walked out with two skirts that day—the black one and a navy version—and my collection has grown steadily ever since.

Where to Find Your Perfect Worthington Pencil Skirt

When it comes to purchasing Worthington pencil skirts, JCPenney is your primary destination. As the exclusive retailer of the Worthington brand, JCPenney carries the full range of sizes, colors, and styles. You can shop in-store at one of their many locations nationwide, or browse their extensive online selection from the comfort of your couch (which, let’s be honest, is sometimes the preferred option after a long workday).

I’ve found that shopping in-store has its advantages, particularly when you’re still determining your perfect size or want to feel the fabric firsthand. The sales associates at JCPenney are generally knowledgeable about the Worthington line and can help guide you toward the best options for your body type and needs.

That said, online shopping opens up the possibility of accessing the complete inventory, including colors or sizes that might be out of stock at your local store. JCPenney’s website also frequently offers online-exclusive discounts, and who doesn’t love saving a few extra dollars? Plus, their return policy is fairly accommodating, making it a low-risk proposition if you need to exchange sizes.

I’ve also occasionally spotted Worthington pieces at JCPenney outlet stores, where the discounts can be even steeper. And for the truly budget-conscious, don’t overlook secondhand options. Sites like Poshmark, ThredUP, and even eBay often list gently used Worthington items at significant markdowns.

During one particularly tight month, I scored a pristine condition burgundy Worthington pencil skirt on Poshmark for just $12—less than a quarter of its original price. The previous owner had only worn it once for a special event, and it’s now one of my most complimented pieces.

The Quality Question: Are Worthington Pencil Skirts Worth It?

Let’s address the elephant in the room: at their price point, can Worthington pencil skirts really deliver on quality? After years of wearing them in heavy rotation, my answer is a resounding yes—with some caveats.

Worthington pencil skirts sit comfortably in the mid-range quality tier. They aren’t luxury items crafted from the finest Italian wools, but they far exceed what you might expect from their modest price tags. The fabrics are durable, the construction is solid, and with proper care, these skirts can serve you faithfully for many years.

What I particularly appreciate about Worthington’s quality is the attention to detail in the stitching. The seams lay flat, the hems are even, and the waistbands are reinforced in a way that prevents that annoying rolling or buckling that cheaper skirts often develop after a few wears.

The zippers—often the first element to fail in lower-quality garments—are smooth and sturdy. I’ve never had a Worthington zipper break or snag, even on skirts I’ve owned for 5+ years. And the lining (yes, most of their pencil skirts come lined!) is comfortable against the skin and doesn’t generate static like some cheaper alternatives.

That said, quality can vary slightly between different styles and fabrications. I’ve found their wool-blend options to be particularly impressive in terms of longevity, while some of the lighter-weight, stretch fabric versions might show wear a bit sooner, especially if you’re sitting at a desk all day.

One of my Worthington pencil skirts—a charcoal gray wool blend—has survived weekly wear during fall and winter for six years running, and still looks remarkably fresh. The key, I’ve found, is proper care (more on that later) and rotation. Even the best mid-range garment will wear out if it’s the only one you reach for day after day.

Finding Your Perfect Fit: Sizing and Options

One of the most impressive aspects of the Worthington line is its inclusivity in sizing. Their pencil skirts typically range from size 2 to 18 in regular sizes, with petite options from 0P to 16P and plus sizes from 14W to 24W. This broad spectrum means that women of various body types can find their perfect fit.

I sit squarely in the middle of this range and have found Worthington’s sizing to be relatively consistent and true to size. However, I’d recommend trying on a few different sizes when starting out, as the fit can vary slightly depending on the fabric composition and the specific cut of the skirt.

For those on the petite side (generally 5’4″ and under), the petite range is a godsend. The proportions are adjusted for shorter frames, with a slightly higher waistline and a hem that hits at a flattering point on the leg. No more trips to the tailor to have six inches chopped off the bottom!

Similarly, the plus-size range isn’t just a scaled-up version of the regular sizes—the patterns have been thoughtfully adjusted to flatter fuller figures. The waistbands are often slightly wider for comfort, and the seam placement is strategic to create a smooth silhouette.

My sister, who wears a 16W, loves that the plus-size Worthington pencil skirts actually fit through the hips without pulling or creating that dreaded horizontal wrinkling that signals too-tight clothing. “They actually designed these for real women’s bodies,” she told me once. “Not just for the idea of what a plus-size woman should look like.”

If you’re shopping online and unsure about sizing, I’d recommend reading the customer reviews. Women often mention whether a particular style runs large or small, which can guide your selection. And don’t forget to check the garment measurements provided on the product page—comparing these to a skirt you already own can help predict the fit.

Material Matters: What Worthington Pencil Skirts Are Made Of

The fabric composition of Worthington pencil skirts varies across their different lines, but most fall into one of several categories:

1. Wool Blends: Usually containing around 50-65% wool mixed with synthetic fibers for durability and stretch, these are perfect for fall and winter. They offer warmth without bulk and hold their shape beautifully.
2. Ponte Knit: This double-knit fabric creates a smooth, structured appearance while offering remarkable comfort and stretch. Ponte skirts are my go-to for long days when I need to look polished but also stay comfortable.
3. Cotton Blends: Lighter and more breathable, these are excellent for spring and summer. They typically include some spandex for stretch and recovery.
4. Polyester Blends: Often with added spandex, these tend to be the most wrinkle-resistant and easy-care options in the lineup.

I’ve found that my preference changes with the seasons. The wool blends are unbeatable for winter, offering warmth and a luxurious drape that elevates my cold-weather office outfits. Come summer, I transition to the lighter cotton blends that breathe better in humid conditions.

The ponte knit options, however, have earned a special place in my heart and closet. There’s something magical about a fabric that feels like secret pajamas while looking boardroom-ready. On days packed with meetings, presentations, and perhaps an after-work event, ponte is my trusted ally.

Material also impacts how the skirt moves with your body. The blends with higher stretch content (look for spandex, elastane, or lycra in the composition) offer more freedom of movement and are less likely to crease when you sit. This is particularly important if your job involves a lot of transitioning between sitting and standing.

The Fit Factor: How Worthington Pencil Skirts Sit on the Body

The signature silhouette of a Worthington pencil skirt follows the natural curves of the body, tapering slightly from hips to hem. The classic version sits at the natural waist—roughly an inch above your belly button—and ends just at or slightly below the knee.

What makes Worthington’s fit distinctive is the careful balance between structure and comfort. Unlike ultra-rigid pencil skirts that can restrict movement, Worthington incorporates just enough stretch to allow for normal activity while maintaining that crisp, professional appearance.

The waistband typically measures around 1.5-2 inches in width, providing smooth definition without digging into your midsection when seated. Most styles feature a back slit (ranging from 4-7 inches deep, depending on the overall length of the skirt) that facilitates walking and prevents that awkward hobbled gait that too-tight pencil skirts can cause.

I’ve noticed that different body types tend to favor different aspects of Worthington’s fit:

• For hourglass figures, the defined waist and hip-skimming silhouette accentuate natural curves beautifully.
• Apple shapes appreciate the smooth waistband and the way the skirt skims rather than clings through the middle.
• Pear-shaped women (like myself) find that the proportions help balance a smaller upper body with fuller hips.
• Rectangle body types benefit from the waist definition that creates the illusion of more curves.

Regardless of your body type, the key to the perfect fit is selecting the right size. A well-fitting pencil skirt should lay smooth across the hips without pulling or creating horizontal wrinkles (a sign it’s too tight) or sagging in the seat (indicating it’s too large).

You should be able to sit comfortably and climb a flight of stairs without feeling restricted. If you find yourself doing the “pencil skirt shuffle”—those tiny steps women take when their skirt is too tight—you need to size up or look for a style with more stretch.

Care and Maintenance: Keeping Your Skirts Looking Fresh

One practical consideration that’s often overlooked when purchasing clothing is maintenance requirements. Fortunately, most Worthington pencil skirts are relatively easy to care for, though the specific instructions vary by fabric type.

The majority of styles are machine washable on a gentle cycle with cold water. I typically wash my Worthington skirts in mesh laundry bags to prevent any snags or excessive agitation. Line drying or laying flat to dry is preferable for maintaining the shape, though some sturdier fabrics can handle tumble drying on low heat.

The wool blend options are the exception—these generally require dry cleaning to maintain their shape and prevent shrinkage. While this adds to the maintenance cost, I find it’s worth it for the superior look and feel of these winter-weight skirts.

One of my favorite aspects of Worthington pencil skirts is their wrinkle resistance. The fabric blends are engineered to recover quickly from sitting, making them ideal for long workdays or business travel. A quick steam or hanging in a steamy bathroom is usually sufficient to remove any persistent creases.

For storage, I hang my pencil skirts on skirt hangers with clips, being careful not to create indentations from the clips by rotating their position occasionally. If you’re short on hanging space, folding them over a hanger works well too, especially for the stretchier fabrics.

With proper care, I’ve found that Worthington pencil skirts maintain their color and shape remarkably well over time. My oldest piece—a classic black style—has been in rotation for nearly eight years and still looks professional enough for client meetings.

The Color Spectrum: From Classics to Statements

When it comes to color options, Worthington offers both timeless neutrals and seasonal fashion colors. The core collection typically includes:

• Black (an absolute essential in my book)
• Navy (surprisingly versatile and less severe than black)
• Charcoal gray (my personal favorite for its sophistication)
• Brown/camel tones (perfect with autumn color palettes)
• Ivory/cream (elegant but requires careful wearing)

Seasonal collections introduce colors like burgundy, forest green, and plum for fall/winter, and brighter options like coral, teal, or cobalt for spring/summer. The availability of these colors rotates throughout the year, so if you spot a color you love, I’d recommend grabbing it rather than assuming it will be there next season.

Beyond solid colors, Worthington occasionally offers patterned options. These range from subtle pinstripes and herringbone (ideal for conservative office environments) to bolder plaids, florals, or geometric prints for those who like to make more of a statement.

I’ve built my collection strategically, starting with the foundational neutrals (black, navy, and gray) before adding colors that complement my existing wardrobe. This approach ensures that each new addition can be paired with multiple tops I already own, maximizing its versatility.

For those just starting their professional wardrobe, I can’t emphasize enough the value of beginning with black. A well-fitting black pencil skirt is perhaps the single most versatile item you can own, seamlessly transitioning from day to evening, casual to formal, and pairing with literally any color top.

Price Point: Budget-Friendly Quality

One of the most attractive aspects of Worthington pencil skirts is their affordability. Regular retail prices typically range from $36 to $50, depending on the fabric and design complexity. During JCPenney’s frequent sales, these prices can drop significantly—often to the $20-30 range.

This pricing places Worthington in an interesting sweet spot: significantly better quality than fast-fashion alternatives that might cost $15-25, yet far more affordable than comparable styles from department store brands that could run $75-150 for similar quality.

I’ve found that the value proposition is particularly strong for their wool-blend options. Comparable wool pencil skirts from more premium brands easily run $100+, making Worthington’s $40-50 price point (and even less on sale) remarkably reasonable.

For the budget-conscious shopper, there are several strategies to maximize your savings:

1. Watch for JCPenney’s sales: They run promotions almost every month, with particularly deep discounts during end-of-season clearances.
2. Sign up for JCPenney Rewards: This free program offers points on purchases, special member pricing, and occasional bonus offers.
3. Check the clearance racks: Discontinued colors or seasonal styles can be found for as little as $9.99 if you’re lucky.
4. Look for coupons: JCPenney frequently distributes percentage-off coupons that can be applied to regular and sale prices.

My personal strategy involves buying core colors (black, navy, gray) at regular price if needed, since these rarely go on deep discount. For seasonal colors or trendier styles, I wait for sales, often scoring them at 40-60% off original prices.

Styling Your Worthington Pencil Skirt for the Office

The workplace versatility of Worthington pencil skirts is where they truly shine. From conservative corporate environments to creative offices, these skirts can be styled appropriately for virtually any dress code.

For traditional corporate settings, I pair my Worthington pencil skirts with:

• Crisp button-down shirts, tucked in with a slim belt
• Fine-gauge cardigans or pullover sweaters in coordinating colors
• Structured blazers for a suit-like appearance
• Simple shell tops under suit jackets

The result is polished, authoritative, and professional—perfect for presentations, client meetings, or interviews.

For business casual environments, the styling options expand considerably:

• Silky blouses with interesting necklines or sleeve details
• Patterned tops that add visual interest
• Lightweight sweaters, perhaps with subtle embellishments
• Fitted t-shirts under cardigans or unstructured blazers

When I transitioned from a traditional financial services firm to a more relaxed marketing agency, I was pleased to discover that my Worthington pencil skirts still worked perfectly—I simply paired them with more creative tops and accessories.

Footwear choices also impact the overall look. Classic pumps (2-3 inch heels) create the most traditional silhouette, while pointed flats offer comfort without sacrificing polish. In more casual settings, I’ve even paired my pencil skirts with clean, minimalist sneakers for a modern juxtaposition.

Accessories provide another avenue for personalization. Statement necklaces, scarves, or bold earrings can transform the same skirt from corporate conservative to creative professional in an instant.

Taking Your Pencil Skirt Beyond 9-to-5

While Worthington pencil skirts are designed with office wear in mind, I’ve found them remarkably adaptable for occasions beyond work hours. With thoughtful styling, the same skirt that carried you through a day of meetings can transition to evening events or weekend activities.

For after-work gatherings or dinner dates, I simply swap my daytime top for something with more visual interest—perhaps a silky camisole, an off-shoulder sweater, or a top with some subtle sparkle. Changing shoes from practical pumps to strappier heels and adding more dramatic jewelry completes the transformation.

Weekend styling takes the pencil skirt into unexpectedly casual territory. Some of my favorite combinations include:

• A black Worthington pencil skirt with a graphic t-shirt, denim jacket, and ankle boots
• A navy pencil skirt with a striped boat-neck top and white sneakers
• A colored pencil skirt with a chambray shirt knotted at the waist

These combinations maintain the flattering structure of the pencil silhouette while subverting its traditional office associations. The juxtaposition of the formal skirt shape with casual elements creates a balanced look that’s neither too dressed up nor too relaxed.

I’ve even worn my Worthington pencil skirts to semi-formal events by pairing them with dressier tops—think sequins, lace, or luxe fabrics—and elegant accessories. A black pencil skirt with a beautifully detailed top can absolutely hold its own at cocktail parties or evening gallery openings.

This versatility extends the cost-per-wear value substantially. When a $40 skirt can serve you appropriately for work, weekend brunches, and evening events, it becomes one of the hardest-working items in your wardrobe.

Finding the Perfect Tops to Pair with Your Pencil Skirt

The beauty of a well-fitting pencil skirt is that it creates a clean foundation for various top styles. Over years of wearing Worthington pencil skirts, I’ve identified several foolproof pairing strategies:

For a balanced silhouette, consider the proportions. The fitted nature of the pencil skirt works beautifully with:

• Slightly looser tops that can be partially or fully tucked in
• Structured tops that end at or just below the waistband
• Peplum styles that emphasize the waist before flaring out

If you’re fuller on top, flowing blouses that skim rather than cling create harmony with the structured bottom. If you’re smaller busted, detailed necklines, ruffles, or horizontal patterns can add visual interest and balance.

Color coordination doesn’t mean matching exactly. In fact, some of the most striking combinations leverage contrast:

• Navy skirt with warm-toned tops (rust, coral, golden yellow)
• Black skirt with jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, amethyst)
• Gray skirt with pastels (blush, mint, lavender)
• Brown skirt with turquoise, teal, or deep purple

For pattern mixing, maintain cohesion by keeping one element consistent. If your skirt has a subtle pattern, choose a top with either complementary colors or a different scale of pattern (e.g., a pinstripe skirt with a larger floral print that incorporates the pinstripe color).

Layering adds dimension and extends the seasonal wearability of your skirts. In cooler months, I layer turtlenecks or thin sweaters under blazers or cardigans. For transitional weather, lightweight scarves add color and warmth without bulk.

The neckline of your top influences the overall effect. V-necks tend to elongate, boat necks broaden, and collared styles add structure. Experimenting with different necklines can completely transform how the same skirt presents.

The Shopping Experience: Returns, Exchanges, and Customer Service

JCPenney’s return policy for Worthington items (as of my last purchase) allows returns within 90 days with a receipt for a full refund to your original payment method. Without a receipt, you can still return items for store credit at the current selling price.

This generous policy reduces the risk when trying new styles or ordering online. I’ve occasionally purchased two sizes of the same skirt, keeping the better fit and returning the other without issue.

In-store customer service for sizing and style guidance varies by location, but I’ve generally found JCPenney associates to be helpful, particularly in the women’s department. Online, the customer review system provides valuable insights from other shoppers about fit, quality, and styling.

One aspect I particularly appreciate is the realistic product photographs on JCPenney’s website. Unlike some retailers who show only size 0 models, JCPenney often displays Worthington pieces on models of various sizes, making it easier to envision how they might look on different body types.

If you’re shopping for Worthington pencil skirts online, I’d recommend:

1. Reading the size chart carefully, particularly the waist and hip measurements
2. Checking customer reviews for comments about whether the style runs true to size
3. Filtering by your size first to avoid falling in love with something unavailable in your size
4. Looking at all available photos, including detail shots and alternate colors

In-store, don’t hesitate to try multiple sizes and styles. The fitting room is your friend, and what looks promising on the hanger sometimes fits differently than expected.

My Personal Worthington Collection: Favorites and Lessons Learned

After years of wearing and collecting Worthington pencil skirts, I’ve developed some clear favorites and learned valuable lessons about what works best for my lifestyle and body type.

My most-worn piece is undoubtedly the charcoal gray wool-blend skirt that I mentioned earlier. The neutral color pairs with everything, the fabric hangs beautifully, and the weight is perfect for three seasons of the year. If I could keep only one pencil skirt, this would be it.

The burgundy ponte knit style I found secondhand has proven surprisingly versatile. Initially purchased for fall/winter wear, I’ve discovered it pairs beautifully with lighter colors in spring as well. The rich, deep red acts almost as a neutral while offering more visual interest than basic black.

My least successful purchase was a light beige skirt that, while beautiful, proved impractical for my lifestyle. With a busy schedule that includes commuting on public transportation and often eating lunch at my desk, maintaining the pristine appearance of a light-colored skirt was simply too demanding.

I’ve also learned to be selective about details. While I love the look of kick pleats and decorative buttons, I find that the simplest designs typically offer the most styling flexibility. Clean lines without excessive embellishment allow the skirt to adapt to different looks and occasions.

Regarding length, my sweet spot is right at the knee or one inch below. This proportion works with various shoe heights while maintaining professionalism. Worthington typically offers a few length options, and finding your ideal is worth the effort of trying different styles.

Worthington vs. Competitors: How Do They Compare?

To provide context on Worthington’s value proposition, I’ve compared them with several competitor brands at different price points:

At the budget end, retailers like H&M and Forever 21 offer pencil skirts in the $15-25 range. While the initial price is attractive, these pieces typically use thinner fabrics, lack lining, and wear out much faster. The construction details—seams, zippers, waistbands—are noticeably inferior to Worthington’s.

In a similar price bracket, Old Navy and Gap Factory offer pencil skirts ranging from $25-45. Quality is comparable to Worthington in some respects, though I’ve found Worthington’s fabric selection and fit consistency to be superior, particularly for office-appropriate styles.

Moving up the price ladder, Banana Republic and Ann Taylor pencil skirts typically retail from $79-120. These offer marginally better construction than Worthington, with more luxurious fabrics and sometimes more intricate detailing. However, during good sales, Worthington offers approximately 80% of the quality at 30-40% of the price.

At the premium end, brands like Theory and Hugo Boss sell pencil skirts from $200-350. The jump in quality is noticeable but not proportional to the price increase. For most working professionals, the incremental improvement doesn’t justify the substantial cost difference.

This comparative analysis has cemented my appreciation for Worthington’s position in the market. They occupy that rare sweet spot where quality and price achieve optimal balance for everyday professional wear.

Final Thoughts: Why Every Wardrobe Needs a Worthington Pencil Skirt

As I wrap up this deep dive into the world of Worthington pencil skirts, I’m reminded of why I began collecting them in the first place. In a fashion landscape that often prioritizes trends over function, or luxury over accessibility, Worthington offers something refreshingly different: well-made, flattering, versatile pieces at prices that respect working women’s budgets.

The pencil skirt itself is a timeless silhouette that has earned its place in fashion history. What Worthington does exceptionally well is democratize this classic, making it available to women across a spectrum of sizes, shapes, and financial circumstances.

Finding the perfect Worthington pencil skirt for your body, budget, and lifestyle isn’t just about adding another item to your closet—it’s about equipping yourself with a wardrobe cornerstone that simplifies dressing well. It’s about the confidence that comes from knowing you look polished and professional without breaking the bank. And perhaps most importantly, it’s about respecting yourself enough to invest in pieces that make you feel your best.

Whether you’re building your first professional wardrobe or refreshing an established collection, I hope this guide helps you navigate the options and find your perfect match. After all, the best clothing purchases aren’t just about how something looks—they’re about how they make you feel, how they serve your lifestyle, and how they express who you are to the world.

And sometimes, all of that can be found in a perfectly fitting pencil skirt.