Contemporaine
Stretch Gingham Pencil Skirt
Contemporaine by Simons presents the Stretch Gingham Pencil Skirt, a fitted, midi-length pencil skirt featuring an elastic waist and back slit. The skirt is made from stretch smocked fabric composed of 68% recycled polyester, 30% cotton, and 2% spandex, with a full thin lining, and has a length of 32 inches (82 cm) in size small; a matching T-shirt is available separately (style 7023-227429). Customer reviews indicate the skirt fits true to size, with multiple reviewers commenting on its comfort and suitability for everyday wear.
Color
Size
Specifications
- Material
- 68% recycled polyester, 30% cotton, 2% spandex
- Gender
- female
- Age Group
- adult
- Condition
- new
- Height
- 32 inches
- Length
- 32
Product Insights
The Stretch Gingham Pencil Skirt by Contemporaine delivers a curve-hugging fit through all-over shirring that doubles stretch by compressing fabric to half width, paired with a full thin lining for opacity, smooth comfort, and crisp pattern. Its elastic waist and pull-on design eliminate zippers and irritation, while the 68% recycled polyester blend is machine-washable (gentle cycle, hang dry) — offering a practical, comfortable alternative to traditional tailored pencil skirts at $49.95. The main tradeoff is the need for careful laundering to protect the smocked elastic, and it lacks GRS certification despite qualifying for the Vision program.
Verified claims
- Fit
- All-over shirring delivers uniform, curve-hugging stretch from hip to hem.
- Wearability
- Full lining and elastic waist eliminate irritation and simplify dressing.
- Value
- At $49.95, this smocked skirt is a comfortable alternative to traditional tailored gingham pencil skirts.
- Stretch performance
- Shirring, not 2% spandex, gives primary stretch, compressing fabric to half width for nearly double stretch.
- Comfort
- Full thin lining covers the shirring's elastic thread rows, preventing a bumpy interior feel.
- Appearance
- Full lining ensures opacity, even drape, and crisp pattern.
- Care
- Skirt and lining are machine-washable — no dry-cleaning needed.
- Material
- 68% recycled polyester blend with full thin lining for opacity and smooth comfort.
- Closure
- Elastic waist and all-over shirring enable pull-on wear, no zipper needed.
- Eco certification
- Qualifies for Vision program; no GRS certification.
- Washing
- Machine washable with gentle care to protect the smocked elastic.
- Drying
- Hang to dry; tumble drying damages the elastic and spandex.
- Ironing
- Low-heat iron on non-smocked areas to keep gathers intact.
- Brand positioning
- Simons' house brand designed in Canada; sale price of $49.95 compares to Madewell's $49.99 (USD).
- Construction
- Full-lined, shirred body with elastic waist — no zipper, no see-through, deep stretch.
Product record
- Title
- Stretch Gingham Pencil Skirt
- Brand
- Contemporaine
- Price
- 89 CAD
- Availability
- In stock
- Rating
- 4.7 stars, 11 reviews, scale 5
Deep Research
What the smocked construction does for fit
- The designation ‘stretch smocked fabric’ — rather than a smocked waistband panel — indicates the entire skirt body is built from shirred material, so the stretch and curve-hugging fit extend uniformly from hip to hem, not just at the waist.
- On a lightweight woven, shirring compresses the fabric to about half its original width, meaning the smocked panels can stretch back to roughly double their relaxed measurement — so even a slim-cut skirt has generous wearing ease that adapts to movement and subtle size fluctuations.
- The stretch in this skirt is created by rows of elastic thread sewn into the fabric (shirring or smocking), which gathers the material into tight horizontal puckers that expand to accommodate the body and then snap back, giving it a fitted pencil silhouette with only 2% spandex in the blend — the shirring supplies the primary give.
- Shirring leaves rows of elastic thread on the wrong side of the fabric, but the skirt’s full thin lining covers them completely, so the gathered outer texture doesn’t translate into a bumpy or scratchy interior against the skin.
- Effective shirring requires a lightweight woven fabric to form tight, resilient gathers, and the skirt’s 68% recycled polyester / 30% cotton / 2% spandex blend delivers just enough body to pucker deeply without losing its shape over time.
How it compares to other gingham pencil skirts
- A full thin lining ensures the skirt remains opaque and drapes smoothly, a thoughtful touch that signals attention to quality at the $49.95 sale point.
- An elastic waist replaces the invisible zipper and hook-and-eye closure found on many pencil skirts (Banana Republic's gingham pencil, for example, uses that exact closure system), making this skirt a pull-on style that accommodates waist-size fluctuations and is more comfortable for sitting.
- As the house label of Canadian retailer Simons, Contemporaine is designed in Canada and sold direct-to-consumer, which eliminates intermediary markups and often results in better fabric choices like recycled polyester and full linings at mass-market prices.
- With 68% recycled polyester content derived from post-consumer plastic, the skirt meets Simons' Vision sustainability criteria, putting an eco-certified garment within the buyer's reach at $49.95.
- At $49.95, the Contemporaine skirt sits right alongside Madewell's linen/rayon gingham pencil ($49.99 sale), but it brings a recycled polyester blend and smocked stretch comfort instead of natural fibers and decorative side buttons, offering a distinct value proposition for the eco- and comfort-conscious buyer.
Image Analysis
5 images- 01
Product
A fitted midi-length gingham skirt seen on a model, shown with a matching short-sleeve top. The skirt is high-waisted and tapers slightly toward the hem; both garments display a small-scale red-and-white checked pattern.
- Skirt silhouetteMidi-length pencil skirt that sits at the natural waist and tapers slightly toward the hem with a straight vertical seam appearance on the front right side.
1 region
x 0.28 · y 0.38 · w 0.44 · h 0.53 (high) - Skirt pattern and textureSmall-scale gingham check pattern in alternating red and white squares across the entire visible skirt surface; fabric appears smooth with slight body stretch indicated by subtle horizontal conformity to the hips.
1 region
x 0.28 · y 0.48 · w 0.44 · h 0.42 (high) - Waistband detailWaistband sits at the model's natural waist with a clean finish and no visible belt loops or drawstring; the top is slightly lifted to show a small portion of the waistband.
1 region
x 0.36 · y 0.34 · w 0.28 · h 0.12 (high) - Matching topShort-sleeve crew-neck top in the same small-scale red-and-white gingham pattern; hem of the top is slightly lifted on the right side by the model.
1 region
x 0.28 · y 0.12 · w 0.44 · h 0.30 (high) - Visible footwear (styling)Flat black strappy sandals worn by the model; thin straps across toes and around ankle with a squared sole.
1 region
x 0.36 · y 0.85 · w 0.28 · h 0.12 (high) - No visible text or labelsThere are no legible printed labels, tags, or text visible on the garments in this image.
Other
Studio shot of a standing model on a seamless light gray to white background. Even diffuse lighting with soft shadows under feet; image framed full-body with the model centered and slight three-quarter stance.
- Model poseFemale model standing facing slightly toward the camera with one hand lifting the top hem and the other resting near the hip; legs close together.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.05 · w 0.64 · h 0.92 (high) - Background and lightingPlain seamless light gray to white studio background with even, diffuse frontal lighting and minimal harsh shadows.
- Image framingFull-body vertical crop showing the model from head to feet with small floor shadow visible at the bottom edge.
Colors
red gingham· skirtred gingham· top#BC8365- Skirt silhouetteMidi-length pencil skirt that sits at the natural waist and tapers slightly toward the hem with a straight vertical seam appearance on the front right side.
- 02
Product
A model wears a matching small-checked red-and-white knit set: a short-sleeve cropped crew top and a high-waisted midi pencil skirt with a straight, narrow silhouette and a fitted waist.
- Skirt silhouetteHigh-waisted, straight pencil skirt falling to mid-calf with a narrow hem and a smooth fitted waistline visible at the model's natural waist.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.46 · w 0.58 · h 0.45 (high) - Skirt fabric patternDense small gingham check pattern in alternating red and white checks covering the full visible skirt surface.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.46 · w 0.58 · h 0.45 (high) - Top styleShort-sleeve cropped crew-neck top in the same gingham fabric, with a slightly relaxed fit and sleeve length ending above the elbow.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.10 · w 0.60 · h 0.36 (high) - Matching set alignmentTop and skirt are made from the same patterned fabric and aligned so the waist area shows continuous pattern where top meets skirt.
1 region
x 0.28 · y 0.32 · w 0.40 · h 0.18 (high) - Fabric textureFabric appears to be a soft, slightly stretchy knit with fine texture; drape follows body contour without stiff structure.Partial
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.20 · w 0.58 · h 0.70 (medium) - Visible fastenings or seamsNo visible external zippers or buttons on the skirt or top; side seams and waist seam are not prominent on the patterned surface.
- Footwear visibleModel is wearing thin-strap flat sandals in a dark color with toe loop and ankle strap.
1 region
x 0.35 · y 0.86 · w 0.30 · h 0.12 (high)
Other
Studio shot with a standing model against a seamless light gray backdrop; soft even lighting with faint shadow at feet and minimal reflections.
- Shot compositionFull-body vertical studio shot showing the model centered in frame with small space above head and floor visible below feet.
1 region
x 0.00 · y 0.00 · w 1.00 · h 1.00 (high) - Pose and gestureModel stands with weight on one leg, left hand holding the hem of the top to reveal the waist, right hand resting by the side.
1 region
x 0.30 · y 0.28 · w 0.40 · h 0.40 (high) - BackgroundNeutral light gray seamless background with no visible props or branding.
- Lighting and shadowSoft, diffuse lighting with minimal harsh shadows; faint shadow cast on floor in front of and slightly to the right of the model.
1 region
x 0.40 · y 0.90 · w 0.20 · h 0.08 (medium) - Image qualitySharp focus on model and garments with no visible motion blur and accurate color rendering.
Colors
red and white gingham· fabric (skirt and top)white· fabric white checks#EEEEF0dark brown black· sandals- Skirt silhouetteHigh-waisted, straight pencil skirt falling to mid-calf with a narrow hem and a smooth fitted waistline visible at the model's natural waist.
- 03
Product
Form-fitting, high-waisted midi pencil skirt with small gingham check pattern in red and white, visible narrow straight hem and a small center-front slit; fabric appears stretch-knit with fine vertical recovery lines and a stitched waistband.
- SilhouetteHigh-waisted, form-fitting pencil midi skirt that tapers along the hips and falls straight to a narrow hem around mid-calf.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.10 · w 0.64 · h 0.73 (high) - PatternSmall gingham check pattern composed of alternating red and white squares across the entire visible skirt surface.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.14 · w 0.60 · h 0.68 (high) - WaistbandNarrow stitched waistband with a horizontal seam line visible at the top of the skirt aligning with the model's waist.
1 region
x 0.24 · y 0.12 · w 0.46 · h 0.07 (high) - Fabric textureKnit fabric with subtle vertical stretch/recovery lines and a smooth surface finish indicating elastic stretch.
1 region
x 0.30 · y 0.20 · w 0.36 · h 0.50 (medium) - Hem detailNarrow straight hem finishing at mid-calf with a small center-front vertical slit opening above the hem.
1 region
x 0.42 · y 0.72 · w 0.16 · h 0.16 (high)
Other
Studio photograph showing a model wearing the skirt, plain light background and floor; visible model legs and sandals; cropped upper body with matching top; soft even lighting with minimal shadows.
- Model and propsModel's lower legs and feet visible wearing strappy black flat sandals; the model's hands rest near the waistband and a matching cropped top is partially visible.
1 region
x 0.28 · y 0.60 · w 0.46 · h 0.37 (high) - BackgroundPlain light neutral studio background and floor with soft shadow beneath the model.
- Shot compositionThree-quarter frontal view of the skirt on a standing model, image cropped above the waist and including the full skirt length to the feet.
Colors
mid warm red· fabric - red checks#8B5A5Coff white· fabric - white checks- SilhouetteHigh-waisted, form-fitting pencil midi skirt that tapers along the hips and falls straight to a narrow hem around mid-calf.
- 04
Product
Rear view of a mid-calf pencil skirt with a small gingham check pattern, a vertical center-back seam and a single rear vent centered at the hem.
- SilhouetteStraight pencil silhouette falling to mid-calf with a narrow fitted shape through hips and thighs.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.12 · w 0.76 · h 0.72 (high) - Fabric patternAll-over small gingham check pattern composed of alternating red and white squares.
1 region
x 0.18 · y 0.18 · w 0.64 · h 0.60 (high) - Center-back seamVisible vertical center-back seam running from waistband down to the vent.
1 region
x 0.47 · y 0.14 · w 0.06 · h 0.60 (high) - Rear ventSingle straight rear vent starting above the hem at the center back, creating a narrow slit.
1 region
x 0.46 · y 0.58 · w 0.08 · h 0.26 (high) - Waistband seamHorizontal seam at the natural waist indicating a defined waistband; top of skirt slightly gathered against the model's waist.
1 region
x 0.16 · y 0.12 · w 0.68 · h 0.10 (medium) - HemStraight finished hem that sits below mid-calf, with the vent opening centered above it.
1 region
x 0.16 · y 0.78 · w 0.68 · h 0.08 (high)
Other
Model wearing the skirt, neutral studio background, even soft lighting and visible sandals; image is a centered rear product shot.
- Model and poseModel shown from the waist down to the feet, standing with legs close together and hands relaxed at sides; back view.
1 region
x 0.10 · y 0.00 · w 0.80 · h 1.00 (high) - Visible footwearPair of flat sandals with thin straps visible on the feet; sandals are black with a low profile sole.
1 region
x 0.36 · y 0.86 · w 0.28 · h 0.12 (high) - Background and lightingPlain light neutral studio background with soft, even lighting and minimal shadows.
Colors
medium red· gingham checks (red)#630103white· gingham background (white)#F1F1F1- SilhouetteStraight pencil silhouette falling to mid-calf with a narrow fitted shape through hips and thighs.
- 05
Product
A high-waist, calf-length pencil skirt in a small gingham check fabric; straight slim silhouette with a fitted waist and straight hem finishing near mid-calf.
- SilhouetteStraight pencil skirt silhouette that fits close to the hips and falls straight down to a calf-length hem.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.36 · w 0.60 · h 0.55 (high) - WaistbandVisible fitted waistband that sits at the natural waist with the top of the skirt aligned under the model's navel; no visible belt loops or external fasteners.
1 region
x 0.28 · y 0.33 · w 0.44 · h 0.10 (high) - Fabric patternSmall-scale gingham check pattern composed of alternating red and white checks across the entire visible skirt surface.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.36 · w 0.60 · h 0.55 (high) - HemStraight finished hem hitting near mid-calf, with no visible vent or slit on the visible front plane.
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.79 · w 0.60 · h 0.10 (high) - Fabric textureKnit or woven fabric with smooth surface and moderate drape that follows the body contours without heavy stiffness.
1 region
x 0.24 · y 0.40 · w 0.52 · h 0.50 (medium)
Other
Studio shot showing a standing model on a plain light neutral background. Even soft lighting with subtle shadow on the floor; model wears a matching top and sandals which are visible but not described as product packaging.
- Model and stylingFemale model standing facing slightly toward camera wearing the skirt with a matching short-sleeve top; left hand lifts the top to reveal the waistband.
1 region
x 0.14 · y 0.06 · w 0.72 · h 0.90 (high) - Footwear propThin-strap black flat sandals visible on model's feet on the studio floor.
1 region
x 0.36 · y 0.88 · w 0.28 · h 0.10 (high) - Background and lightingPlain light gray to off-white seamless studio background and floor with soft, even lighting and a faint shadow beneath the model.
Colors
muted medium red· skirt red checksoff-white· skirt white checks#EBEAEB- SilhouetteStraight pencil skirt silhouette that fits close to the hips and falls straight down to a calf-length hem.
Documents & Data
Customer Reviews
11 total11 reviews · out of 5
Jolie mais
Trop moulante pour une personne qui habille du TG et qui ne veut pas trop montrer ses formes
Elle est super legere 😅
Taille et longueur parfaite Sur d’autres item ,comme Icône le prends plutôt la taille large
I
Luv it!
Well made
The skirt is lined which is lovely yet it remains light enough for warm weather wear.
Comfy and chic
i bought the top and skirt. Both fit perfectly and are so stylish. Effortless. I know I’ll be wearing this all summer long. Great fabric.
Très jolie ,,
Pour une sortie de tout les jours,,
Stylish & Versatile
I love it. The fit is perfect, easy to wear and no wrinkles! Wash, hang up, wear. It will be perfect on my trip.
Perfect Travel Pair
Bought this online so was worried but it’s perfect. No wrinkle, easy care with stretch. Packs ups small. And fits perfectly.
Perfect skirt
Wrinkle free, fits well. Yes I recommend this item
Perfect
Very flattering straight skirt.
Simple Easy to Wear Skirt
Really happy with this skirt! I have been looking for something I could dress up or down in a lightweight material and this is perfect. It will also be great for travelling this fall as it won’t wrinkle and it can be rolled to take up very little space. I bought the matching top but found it too much gingham.
Q&A
4 answered- How does the sizing run for this pencil skirt? Is it true to size, or should I size up/down for a fitted look?
- The skirt is designed with a fitted silhouette and an elastic waistband, so we recommend selecting your usual size for a snug, tailored fit.
- What are the care instructions? Can it be machine washed, or does it require dry cleaning due to the lining?
- Yes, it can be machine washed. The care instructions specify: Machine Wash, Do not bleach, Wring out and hang to dry, Iron with or without steam, Do not soak, Wash dark colours separately.
- Is the fabric opaque? The lining is mentioned, but is it visible through the gingham pattern on light colors?
- The fabric has a full thin lining, which ensures opacity even on light colors like the black-and-white gingham pattern.
- Are there any certifications or details about the recycled polyester (e.g., GRS) to validate the sustainability claim?
- The skirt is made with 68% recycled polyester and qualifies for Simons' Vision program, which focuses on reduced-impact materials. However, a specific certification like GRS is not mentioned in the product details.