Meghan Markle’s Return to the Pencil Skirt: The Brochu Walker ‘Esme’ and Its Lasting Power
Meghan Markle revives the pencil skirt with Brochu Walker’s ‘Esme’—proving the classic silhouette is forever workplace chic and celebrity approved.
Meghan Markle’s Return to Power Dressing: The Brochu Walker ‘Esme’ Skirt
Meghan Markle, renowned for her elegant and influential style, has once again set the fashion conversation abuzz. At the Fortune Most Powerful Women Summit in Washington, D.C. this October, the Duchess of Sussex stepped onto the stage in a look that paid simultaneous tribute to her Suits character Rachel Zane and the enduring allure of the pencil skirt. Her fashion choice— the Brochu Walker ‘Esme’ skirt in a sophisticated vegan leather— demonstrates how a classic garment can be reimagined to embody modern chic, professionalism, and sustainable sensibility.
The Event: Fortune Most Powerful Women Summit 2025
Held at the Salamander Hotel, the Fortune Most Powerful Women Summit brought together icons from business and culture. Meghan, already distinguished as a businesswoman and humanitarian, joined Fortune’s editor-in-chief, Alyson Shontell, to discuss her burgeoning lifestyle venture, As Ever, and her continued passion for creative and operational excellence. But it was her sartorial presence—polished, intentional, and subtly nostalgic—that turned heads and sent style searchers into overdrive.
Channeling Rachel Zane: Suits Nostalgia Meets Modern Style
Fans quickly recognized echoes of Rachel Zane, Meghan Markle’s brilliant and impeccably dressed paralegal on Suits. Rachel’s wardrobe was anchored in tailored pencil skirts and crisp blouses—confidence and competence cut in fabric. Meghan’s real-life ensemble mirrored this iconic look:
- Brochu Walker Esme Skirt: Chosen in the ‘perle’ (oyster) hue, the skirt offers structured tailoring and a clean, streamlined silhouette.
- Gabriela Hearst Blouse: A refined, cream silk blouse that enhanced the monochromatic theme.
- Dior Heels: Sky-high classic pumps for added poise and height.
- Polène Earrings: Understated gold jewelry for a hint of Parisian flair.
The look was both timeless and timely, cleverly referencing the sartorial DNA of Suits while adapting to contemporary fashion values through sustainable choices and updated silhouettes.
Spotlight on the Brochu Walker ‘Esme’ Skirt
Design Details: What Makes the Esme Pencil Skirt Stand Out?
- Material: Soft Italian vegan leather, offering sustainability without sacrificing luxury or comfort.
- Colors: Available in seven different shades, though Meghan chose ‘perle’, a neutral, versatile tone.
- Cut and Fit: Midi length falling below the knee, with a pencil silhouette that flatters and lengthens the figure.
- Details: Features an elasticized waistband for comfort, a discreet side zip, front seam detail, and a subtle open slit for ease of movement and modern allure.
- Fabric Composition: 50% Polyester, 50% Polyurethane; unlined for a lightweight feel.
The Esme is “simplicity at its finest,” as Brochu Walker describes—understated, adaptable, and designed to move with you. These thoughtful touches make it equally suitable for office power meetings and evening soirees.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Material | Soft Italian vegan leather (50% Polyester/50% Polyurethane) |
| Fit | Pencil silhouette, midi length, elasticized waistband with side zip |
| Details | Front seam with open slit, unlined |
| Colors | Seven, including perle (oyster/ivory), black, and other neutrals |
| Price | $348 (as listed) |
Why the Pencil Skirt Never Goes Out of Style
The pencil skirt has a long history as the ultimate workplace staple, instantly evoking professionalism and feminine power. Meghan’s choice highlights several reasons for its persistent appeal:
- Flattering Shape: Streamlined lines elongate the figure and create a poised silhouette.
- Versatility: Moves seamlessly from office hours to casual evening functions with just a change of footwear or accessories.
- Cultural Currency: Associated with icons from Marilyn Monroe to Olivia Pope, and now modern royals like Meghan Markle.
- Timelessness: Always at the intersection of classic and contemporary when styled right.
More Than a Look: Sustainability and Conscious Consumerism
Meghan Markle’s selection of a vegan leather skirt is noteworthy in an era when sustainability is top-of-mind. Vegan leather offers:
- Animal-Friendly Material: No animal products, appealing to ethical consumers.
- Modern Innovation: Advances in textile technology allow for supple, luxurious alternatives to traditional leather.
- Reduced Environmental Impact: Typically lower carbon footprint compared to animal leather production.
This aligns with the ongoing shift in celebrity wardrobes towards conscious, eco-friendly fashion—a conversation elevated by high-profile figures like Meghan Markle.
How Meghan Markle Styles the Pencil Skirt
At the Fortune Summit, Meghan’s monochromatic palette conveyed serenity and confidence. Key lessons from her styling:
- Pair a Pencil Skirt with a Fluid Blouse: Soft fabrics like silk or viscose balance the skirt’s structure, adding effortless grace.
- Opt for Neutral Hues: Creams, ivories, and beiges create a sophisticated, elongating effect and allow statement accessories to shine.
- Add Height with Heels: High, classic pumps give a streamlined, powerful finish.
Major Meghan Markle Moments: A Brief Style Timeline
Meghan has embraced the leather (and now vegan leather) pencil skirt trend throughout her public life. Here are standout occasions where she showcased this style:
- 2018: Wore a classic leather pencil skirt for a visit to the University of Chichester’s Engineering and Digital Technology Park.
- 2019: Opted for a deep-toned leather skirt at Windsor Castle for a gender equality roundtable with Queen’s Commonwealth Trust and One Young World.
- 2025: Revitalized the look with the Brochu Walker Esme in vegan leather at the Fortune Summit.
What Sets This Appearance Apart?
Meghan’s latest outing is her first public leather (vegan) skirt in six years and signals not only her evolving fashion commitments but also her agility in harnessing the power of nostalgia for a new generation of style-watchers.
Mixing Business and Luxury: Meghan Markle’s Accessories Game
Her accessories were understated but luxurious, reinforcing her message of confident professionalism:
- Diamond Ring: A striking, modern piece stretching elegantly across three fingers.
- Gold Polène Studs: Subtle yet rich, adding interest without overpowering her outfit.
- Coordinated Dior Heels: Neutral, leg-lengthening, perfect for both boardrooms and summits.
Why the ‘Esme’ Is More Than a Fashion Statement
The Esme skirt encapsulates several trends and values dominating 2025 fashion:
- Nostalgia: A classic revived thanks to streaming-era love for Suits re-runs and Y2K throwbacks.
- Sustainability: Vegan leather speaks to eco-aware consumers.
- Celebrity Influence: Meghan’s endorsement makes it instantly covetable and cements its status as the season’s office-to-evening essential.
As the skirt remains available for purchase in various sizes and colors, followers can emulate not just this ‘look,’ but also Meghan’s values and fashion-forward thinking.
How to Emulate Meghan Markle’s Pencil Skirt Look
Ready to channel your inner Duchess? Here’s how to make the look your own:
- Choose a pencil skirt—vegan leather if possible—in a neutral shade for maximum versatility.
- Pair it with a silky or tailored blouse in a coordinating color.
- Add minimalist jewelry and a pair of classic, high-heeled pumps.
- Keep makeup natural and hair softly styled to complete the polished effect.
The Brochu Walker ‘Esme’ At a Glance
- Price: $348
- Size Range: XS to L
- Key Details: Elasticized waistband, side zip, knee-skimming length, front slit
- Care: Spot clean. Unlined for breathability.
- Perfect For: Office, special events, and chic everyday moments
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What makes the Brochu Walker ‘Esme’ pencil skirt unique?
It combines sustainable Italian vegan leather with thoughtful design touches like a comfortable, elasticized waistband, flattering midi length, and seven color options. The look exudes luxury while remaining eco-conscious.
How did Meghan Markle style her Brochu Walker skirt at the Fortune Summit?
Meghan styled the skirt with a monochrome silk blouse by Gabriela Hearst, Dior pumps, Polène gold earrings, and a diamond ring, achieving a sleek, professional, and slightly nostalgic look referencing her Suits character.
Is the Esme skirt suitable for all body types?
The pencil silhouette, elasticized waistband, and slight stretch from the Italian vegan leather offer both comfort and a flattering fit for a wide range of body shapes.
How do I transition a pencil skirt from office to evening?
Swap out your button-down or blouse for a more playful top, incorporate edgier footwear or accessories, and consider adding a tailored blazer or a statement clutch for a polished finish.
Why is vegan leather becoming so prominent in modern fashion?
Vegan leather offers an ethical alternative to animal products, is versatile and often lightweight, and aligns with the growing consumer demand for sustainable and cruelty-free options.
Extra Style Inspiration: Meghan’s October Fashion Diary
- Paris Fashion Week debut: Classic ensembles with bold accents.
- NYC Humanitarian Awards: Chic power suits and royal-worthy accessories.
- Striped Ralph Lauren looks at World Mental Health Day: Business-casual perfection.
- Autumnal layers in YSL blazers and Max Mara coats.
Meghan’s multifaceted wardrobe—rooted in timeless silhouettes like the pencil skirt—demonstrates her signature blend of practicality, elegance, and trend-setting influence.
Conclusion: More Than a Garment, A Statement
The Brochu Walker ‘Esme’ pencil skirt’s moment in the spotlight, thanks to Meghan Markle, is about more than a fleeting trend. It represents the power of fashion to spark nostalgia, advance sustainability, and define personal branding in the public eye. Whether you’re a fan of Suits, a devotee of the pencil skirt, or simply looking for inspiration in everyday elegance, Meghan’s take on this classic silhouette offers a master class in how to dress with intent and impact.
References
- https://www.purewow.com/fashion/meghan-markle-brochu-walker-pencil-skirt
- https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1351283-meghan-markle-brings-the-leather-pencil-skirt-in-spotlight-after-6-years
- https://www.hellomagazine.com/fashion/royal-style/861676/meghan-markle-leather-pencil-skirt-powerful-women-summit/
- https://www.marieclaire.com/celebrity/royals/meghan-markle-leather-ivory-pencil-skirt-fortune-summit/
- https://www.brochuwalker.com/products/esme-skirt-perle-white
