I have endless variations on the pencil skirt in my closet because it's such a slimming, flattering, classic silhouette. But in general, and in black especially, the look can seem a little serious. I like that the ribbed sweater material of this James Perse one is more approachable than stiff and corporate. I paired it with a cropped sweater in playfully-colored stripes, so the outfit felt fresh instead of uniform, and could transition from work to an early date night downtown with the swipe of a bright lip.