Skirt: Black Leather Look Pencil ($45)

From Left, Earrings: Micro Knot Studs ($75) Tights: 120 Denier Topshop Tights ($16) Bag: Vince Camuto Riley Satchel ($278) Shoes: Brinda Suede Ankle Boot ($129) Jacket: ALC Black Blazer ($166) Shirt: Tory Burch Gigi Blouse ($325)

From Right, Ring: OdlR Gold Plated Ring ($135) Clutch: VC Horn Clutch ($158) Shoes: LAMB Nadeen Stilettos ($225) Necklace: Pim + Larkin Deco Necklace ($48) Sweater: Schraut Cashmere Button Back Sweater ($405)

For the Office.  As I mentioned this morning, a leather pencil skirt can do anything a wool skirt can do.  Here, I used it as the foundation for an outfit that would normally be made with suit separates.

I added the soft, feminine blouse to balance the strong look of the leather skirt.  The mixing of textures helps create a balance that brings the leather skirt into the workplace without being so jarring.  I thought about adding a grey tweed jacket with leather details, but opted for the simpler black blazer in the end.  You could also skip the jacket if it’s not your speed and go for a black cardigan in a v-neck to complement the blouse.

For the accessories, I chose thick 120 denier tights (the blacker and more opaque the better, in my opinion) and a suede bootie.  You can wear a leather pump or a leather bootie, but I think the balance the suede provides next to the leather skirt is nicer.  And if you go for a pump, I think that a round toe looks a little harsh with tights than a pointed one.

I also like the grey bag with the outfit as an alternative to black.  This pebble leather bag from Vince Camuto has a great, stylish shape.  However, if you need something under-$100, this Steve Madden bag is very similar with pewter hardware and an optional crossbody strap.

For the hair, I would wear it in a really soft style.  Probably down and curled at the ends.  If you wanted to wear it up, make it a low, loose updo with some waves.  For the makeup, I would wear a burgundy nail color like Pop Beauty Radiant Ruby and a glossy lipstick in a similar shade.

For a Dinner Date.  This outfit would be great for dinner with friends, your boyfriend of an after work event at a conference.  It’s dressed up and sexy without being too overdone, and I like the way the softness of the cashmere plays with the leather.

This sweater is so expensive, but I love the oatmeal color and the button details up the back.  Looking for a similar sweater for less?  This Neiman Marcus sweater from Last Call has the button back and the peplum in a gorgeous wine color for under-$125.  It’s a total find.

Not feeling the peplum?  Land’s End has a really nice half sleeve cashmere sweater that comes in a gorgeous plum color.  That would be a great alternative, and it also comes in plus-size.  I’ve been really surprised by how many great, staple pieces I’ve been finding at Land’s End.  Who knew?

The jewelry is more modern and heavier than I usually choose, but I wanted to give the skirt some support.  I love this Pim + Larkin necklace, it’s a great price and I think it could go with anything.  I also found this Banana Republic necklace that isn’t quite as structural, and the beads have a great texture to them.

For the hair, I would wear it up in a Gibson roll.  For the makeup, I would go with a red lip, like MAC Ruby Woo, and black eyeliner with lots of mascara.