With a history that stretches back to ancient Greece, the modern pleated skirt takes its cue from the iconic “Delphos” dress popular in early 20th century Europe, and has since evolved into a wardrobe staple on par with blue jeans or the crisp white shirt. Nowadays, this fun, flirtatious and deeply feminine garment comes in a multitude of styles, lengths, fabrications and colors. The pleated skirt has been reinvented to suit all occasions and aesthetics, from Y2K fashion to preppy chic. A hot pink skirt with mini pleats, for instance, is perfect for hitting the dance floor, while a pleated midi skirt with pockets is an all-weather classic. At heart though, the pleated skirt remains a symbol of both sass and class, exuding good girl vibes without losing carefree edge. From the sporty white pleated tennis skirt to the ladylike black pleated midi skirt, it’s a garment that’s perennially in vogue. Whatever the season and whatever your figure, investing in a pleated skirt is a surefire way of sealing your style cred.
The great thing about pleated skirts is that they go with any top, and can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Whether you’re going sleek for the office, sassy for the mall or sporty for the tennis court, this piece is an evergreen basic that will turn heads season after season. A pleated midi skirt pairs well with a plain scoop-neck top or a ruffled blouse to form a professional-looking ensemble radiating modest chic. Add some bold, gold-tone jewelry and you’ve got an outfit that can transition smoothly from boardroom meeting to cocktail hour. For weekend jaunts, a knife-pleated skater skirt at a thigh-skimming length will come in handy. Sassier than the pencil skirt, wrap skirt and shirt dress, the pleated skirt flaunts the legs while injecting an outfit with a hint of schoolgirl chic. The skirt’s high-waisted cut accentuates the figure. Got a rendezvous lined up? A pleated maxi skirt in leopard print will guarantee edge, while a pleated A-line skirt reworked in bold, sensual colors like emerald and fuchsia will up the glamor. If you’re heading for Saturday morning tennis − or just Saturday brunch − a pleated tennis mini skirt is a failsafe go-to for assembling a clean, simple look with sporty edge. Pair the tennis skirt with a tank top, breezy boyfriend shirt, box-fresh sneaks and rhinestone studs for a monochrome look that’s striking on and off the court.
Different fabrics imbue pleated skirts with different vibes. The classic cotton pleated mini epitomizes girlishness, especially when it’s in light, bright colors like pink and buttercup yellow. The A-line pale pink pleated skirt is a failsafe option for giving an outfit a girlish lift, while a yellow pleated skirt is sure to boost moods. Reworked in denim, however, the same silhouette exudes tough, tomboy cool. A pleated denim mini skirt can tone down dressier basics like white shirts and black knit turtlenecks. An alternative to wide-leg jeans or denim shorts, the pleated denim skirt offers cowgirl energy without sacrificing femme vibes.
Besides the pleated denim skirt, the faux leather pleated skirt in a provocative cut is again proof that this iconic silhouette doesn’t necessarily have to lean girly or preppy. Tough, edgy and brimming with dark romance, it adds instant cool to an all-black outfit. If you’re looking for a more grown-up and glamorous take, then a midi version is perfect, especially when paired with a snug-fit sweater, boxy handbag and faux leather mules.
For glammed-up vibes, luxe fabrics are called for. The silk pleated skirt and the satin pleated skirt, especially at midi length or longer, are both great options for banquets, weddings and after-dark parties. Injecting slinky vibes into a ladylike ensemble, these elegant takes are the antithesis of the cute cotton mini that radiates girl-next-door vibes. For ethereal edge and a fairytale finish, consider switching things up with an ombré fabric. A pleated chiffon skirt featuring a gradient of colors is bold and quirky, yet still unabashedly femme.
If a dark, grungy look is what you’re aiming for, look for alternative interpretations of the classic black pleated skirt or dark gray pleated skirt. An asymmetric cut is a surefire way to spice up the classic pleated mini silhouette, as are punkish details like contrast stitching, distressed hems and a hint of heavy metal. With these subtle shifts and additions, the pleated mini skirt can exude flirtatious energy while brimming with dark undercurrents.
From classic cool to princess vibes to punk goddess energy, the pleated skirt is a wardrobe staple that can infuse your outfit with whatever vibe you’re seeking to channel. Pick the right fabric, cut and embellishments to bring carefree edge to your outfit.
First and foremost, think about the look you’re going for, and what part of your personality you want to showcase. Do you want a skirt that’ll immediately grab the spotlight, or a low-key basic that’ll go with every other top you own? What’s the occasion – a tutorial session, dinner date or house party? Do you prefer skirts with side zips, or elastic waist skirts for optimum comfort?
If you’re looking for an on-trend look that’s both sweet and sassy, then the pleated mini skirt rendered with box or knife pleats is your answer. A monotone skirt in a bright, impactful color will make quite the entrance, while a plaid or tartan version can be counted upon to amp up sassy schoolgirl vibes. Prevent faux pas situations by going for skirts with inset shorts, and opt for skirts with pockets if you’re constantly misplacing keys or spare change.
If you’re into modest fashion or seeking a more ladylike look, a pleated midi can help. Subtle and sophisticated, this design instantly pulls a look together with its grown-up silhouette. It comes in various versions that can exude everything from librarian chic to high glam. Grab a plaid pleated midi in rustic brown for everyday wear, and a luxe one in jewel tones for an evening date.
To push your style in a more experimental direction, the pleated skirt is actually the perfect place to start, especially if it comes in an unconventional fabric or features unexpected details. Faux leather, metal embellishments or bold color-blocking will imbue an outfit with edge, but the classic silhouette of the pleated skirt will always keep things grounded.
There’s a myth that curvier figures and pleated skirts don’t mix well. This is false, and the trick is to choose the right length, cut and style for you. The accordion pleated skirt, for instance, is very flattering on the hourglass figure. The pleated mini can also work in your favor, especially when paired with a wide belt to cinch in the waist and a loose, billowy top for contrast. Whatever the case, never be afraid to experiment! Here at YesStyle, the selection spans everything from petite pleated skirts to plus-size pleated skirts, so chances are there’s one that suits your needs!
Spunky yet girly, casual yet still dressed-up, the pleated skirt anchors more than just school uniforms. Coming in a variety of fabrics, cuts and styles, it never fails to do what it sets out to do: draw attention to the legs by virtue of that swinging movement. If you want something classic yet still charged with the potential for surprise, this wardrobe essential is an investment that will pay dividends. Heading to class? The thigh-skimming, pleated plaid skirt in navy blue can anchor your everyday look. More than just a short skirt, it hits the sweet spot between demure and sexy. Looking for a skirt with pleating that’s just right for work? The accordion skirt in low-key rose will help you nail that uptown look. Going on a quick grocery run? Your best bet is an A-line midi skirt with large pockets. Off to the ball? Choose a high-waist pleated maxi skirt in green satin that’s all about the drama.
Whether you’re into plaid pleated skirts oozing sass or maxi pleated skirts radiating gravitas, YesStyle has a huge selection so you’re bound to find a design that’s just right for you. Browse our range of unique fashion brands today and add a pleated skirt to your dream wardrobe!
