Taylor Foster

Photo: Robert Trachtenberg

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The Perfect Lace Pencil Skirt
Taylor Foster
Bakery owner, 35

Why it's new: The pencil skirt—that timeless, slimming wardrobe staple—is not just for the office, nor should you have it only in black: This version is romantic, and more versatile than you think.

How she wears it: Foster, who sells sweet treats at tea shops and bakeries in the New York area (and online at heavenonmainstreet.com describes her style as "vintage, quirky, and classic." She pairs the skirt with a silk blouse and a cropped motorcycle jacket—a ladylike-with-an-edge look that's as appropriate for business meetings as it is for pastry tastings with her clients. Her sweet specialty? "diamonds"—nut-encrusted caramel in a vanilla cookie crust.

Why you should try it: Because pencil skirts look good on everyone—and now they're suitable for work and play. Off-hours, Foster likes to wear hers dressed down, "with flats and a tank top."

Adam's Tip: Don't get too hung up on matching—this skirt's nude underlay helps the emerald green lace function as a neutral. "It works with camel, gray, and black for day, or with something silkier and shinier for a cocktail party."

Skirt, Eva Franco, $195; EvaFranco.com. Blouse, Kolae, $225; StyleEtoile.com. Jacket, Boss Black, $495; 800-484-6267. Bib necklace, Roberta Chiarella, $58; RobertaChiarella.com. Clutch, Nancy Gonzalez, $1,300; Bergdorf Goodman, NYC; 212-753-7300.