How long have you thought that pleating is fashionable? Someone will say that it was a long time ago, someone will think that it is back in trend, and someone has never heard of these models at all. Let's figure out how things really are. The word “pleating” in English means “folds,” which fully describes the property of an outfit made using this technique. This material is a fabric ironed with stripes, where the folds, unlike corrugation, are made in one direction. Products are made from a wide variety of materials, including chiffon, velvet, knitwear, wool and others.
The history of the pleated skirt begins in the 6th century BC. when the ancient Egyptians and Greeks used hot metal rods to clamp fabric into an accordion shape. It was then that robes of this type first appeared, and, most interestingly, they were worn by men. But Egyptian fashionistas, without thinking twice, took out pieces of fabric, wrapped them around their hips, and it was then that skirts of this type were included in the category of one of the most fashionable.
In Europe, pleated fabrics appeared in the 19th century, and almost immediately became fashionable in women's and men's wardrobes. The skirt itself became fashionable, as they say, at one point - in 1907, when the Spanish fashion designer Mariano Fortuny y Midraso created for his collection a dress that made a revolution - a dress in the Greek style "delphos". Cut-off pleated silk, emphasizing all the subtleties of the figure, became not just a trend, but divided the fashion world into two camps - some believed that it was indecent to appear in such an outfit, while others decided that this was a new step towards freedom. It took about 15 years for such an outfit to go beyond the boudoir. However, thanks to the outstanding dancer Isadora Duncan and artist Natasha Rambova, he not only entered the world of fashion, but gained a foothold in the world of art.
Then the pleated skirt captivated the world of sports and cinema, where tennis players and actresses wore short pleated skirts. Skirts entered the academic style of school uniforms and evening fashion. Horizontal and vertical pleating appeared, the color models of Christian Dior and the sophisticated monochrome of Sybil Connolly, as well as the retro models of Issey Miyake. On the catwalk, the pleated skirt shone very rarely, however, starting from 2021 and Alessandro Michele’s collection for Gucci, romantic pleats have become a trend that has not left tops for the fifth year. Brands such as Mango, Valentino, Jil Sander, Luisa Beccaria, Zara, Bershka, Bibhu Mohapatra and others today offer numerous models of pleated skirts suitable for any body type, age and taste. In addition, such skirts have become integral elements of Scottish kilts, the traditional dress of the peoples of the East, as well as school uniforms in Japan.
Pleated skirts are also included in everyday looks. But the question arises: how to harmoniously combine such a skirt with other wardrobe elements? Which shoes and accessories should you choose? Let's find out! First, let's decide on the different length options for pleated skirts, and the most stylish looks with them.
Mini
This length option is preferred by modern teenagers or young ladies whose clothing style is light and free. You can combine short pleated skirts with tops and T-shirts, as well as shirts and blouses. In warm weather, the ideal combination would be a light white crop top and a bright pleated skirt. A small clutch and elegant sandals will help make the look more romantic, and you can turn it into a sporty look with sneakers or trainers. If you prefer a more formal look, then a combination of a black miniskirt and a blouse in marsh, burgundy or white colors will easily help you realize it.
Features and Benefits
Plisse is a fold translated from French. The fabric on the skirt is gathered into folds ranging from 5 millimeters to 5 centimeters wide. Due to this, while moving, the lower part of the outfit flows, the silhouette expands downwards, creating a silhouette in the shape of the famous hourglass.
The advantages of pleated models are:
- Skirts are suitable for women of all ages - from girls to mature ladies.
- The gait is free, movements are not constrained.
- Vertical folds elongate the figure.
- Especially suitable for ladies with narrow hips, as it adds volume.
- It is easy to hide the excess width of the hips with the help of a pleated skirt starting from the hip (with a yoke).
- Different fabric options make the model all-season.
Pleated skirts are an absolute highlight of any look, as they are elegant, attract attention, and create a characteristic flowing swirl of fabric around the legs.
Midi
The knee-length skirt became trendy not so long ago, however, today everyone prefers to wear it - from teenagers to mature ladies. And this is no coincidence, because this option goes well with any top - a shirt and shoes for business meetings, sneakers and a cap for a walk, a blouse and boots for a party. Among the colors, the most popular in the 2021 season will be the combination of white and darker shades, among which a casual look will be emphasized by combining white with blue, gold or burgundy.
Maxi
The combination of a long skirt and a varied top will turn out harmonious if you use just a few simple rules. Maxi length visually elongates your legs, but at the same time it can add a couple of centimeters to the waist, so try to choose a sweater, blouse or T-shirt with a shorter cut that reaches the waistline, which can be emphasized with a thin strap or wide belt. When wearing low-top shoes, ballet flats or sneakers, try to adjust the length of the skirt so that it slightly reveals your ankles and in no case drags on the ground, otherwise the product will not only quickly become unusable, but will also ruin the bow - let part of the leg be slightly open , so the image will become more feminine. When choosing accessories for a pleated maxi skirt, give preference to smaller details, since the skirt itself, being quite voluminous, will take most of the attention.
Now it’s worth talking in more detail about combining different types of outerwear and pleated skirts, but first, let’s clarify that modern designers offer several secrets that, regardless of the top you choose, will make your look incredibly beautiful. Thus, plain skirts will help to visually elongate the silhouette; even those of short stature can safely wear them. Thanks to the folds, it is possible to hide figure flaws, a small tummy or wide hips - drapery and a belt will help eliminate the imperfections. Almost all types of shoes go with pleated skirts. The most popular today: slip-ons, sneakers, sneakers, ankle boots and pumps.
Sneakers and ballet flats
White sneakers and black ballet shoes are what modern fashionistas prefer. The combination of pleating and sports shoes today is not eclecticism, but boldness in decision!
Long pleated skirt
A maxi-length pleated skirt is a less versatile option than a midi, but more expressive and trendy. Choose a sheer skirt to create a stylish outfit for the evening, like Bella Hadid, or a fashionable leather one to wear it every day, like Miroslava Duma.
A sheer maxi skirt can be worn with a long blazer for parties. The image will be provocative and trendy.
Pay attention to the trendy length - ankle-length. Today, a maxi skirt should not “sweep” the streets, although some fashionistas make beautiful combinations with a long skirt. In this case, contrasting combinations look especially stylish, for example, a transparent maxi ruffle and a sweater made of wool or cashmere.
Ankle-length is Dior's favorite length within the new look style. This is an elegant and feminine length that is suitable not only for formal occasions, but also for every day.
Today, an ankle-length skirt is worn with sneakers and colored sneakers, tennis shoes and even men's style shoes: loafers, brogues, sleepers. A convenient set for spring: a maxi-length ruffled skirt + a loose, cropped T-shirt + sports shoes + a backpack, pouch or cross-body.
Vary the top and choose other accessories, leaving a skirt and sports shoes, and you will feel comfortable in any situation.
Boots and boots
A classic option for winter cold and cool autumn days. Fashion designers advise not to bother with models - the main thing is that the shoes are simple in shape and design, no sparkles or decorations. Leather shoes, as before, are in first place.
Shoes and sandals
In summer and winter, spring and autumn, you can wear these shoes with any pleated skirt. Just remember that the lighter the skirt fabric, the lighter the shoe option should be.
Sweater
A warm knitted sweater and a pleated midi or maxi skirt are a win-win option for going to a cafe, for a walk or getting together with friends. Without restricting movement and pairing perfectly with low-top shoes, a skirt and sweater will make you look stylish and feel cozy. When choosing a sweater, give preference to a large knit and an asymmetrical or shortened length. The color scheme can be either monochromatic or contrasting; the main thing to remember is that in such looks you should not overload your wardrobe with an abundance of scarves, hats and massive bags.
Pleated skirt for plus size
A pleated skirt looks incomparable on plus size girls. In addition, it helps to hide plump hips. Folds will add weightlessness and lightness to the image. Due to the fact that midi length is in fashion, in order to visually lengthen the legs, stylists advise giving preference to shoes with heels. As for the material, choose thin material. It is best if these are chiffon models. Pleated skirts for overweight people can be either plain or decorated with the now popular stripes and checks.
At the top of the fashion Olympus is a pleated skirt with a high waistline. Its undoubted advantage is that it successfully hides a protruding tummy. Don’t be afraid to look bright, give preference to lemon, orange, scarlet colors. In addition, along with the trendy stripes, floral clothing is popular. It will add boundless charm to your appearance. The asymmetrical cut will be a real decoration for any look. But do not forget to choose a discreet top for such a bottom.
Pleated skirt for plus size
Jacket
Leather jacket, bomber jacket or puffy cropped jacket - whatever model of jacket is chosen, it can be combined with a pleated skirt. Leather biker jackets are perfect for mini and midi, and you can combine them with or without heeled shoes. A black leather jacket will look great with gold, light and nude shades of the skirt. For a maxi skirt, choose a puffy jacket that will not only keep you warm, but which, complete with pleating, will emphasize the individuality and style of a fashionista. The trend this season is a combination of bright colors and metallic shades, and the design motto says: “Don’t be afraid to be brighter!”
Shoes under a pleated skirt
The versatility of a pleated skirt allows you to wear any shoes with it - from pumps to rough boots. Trendy sneakers go well with pleated shoes, especially in looks with T-shirts and bomber jackets. Even if you bought a smart tulle skirt, you can combine it with sneakers and a T-shirt.
For business looks, ankle boots or pumps are most suitable; they are best combined with midi-length models.
Complement romantic, elegant and elegant outfits with beautiful sandals or original shoes, for example, with jumpers or decoration.
In summer, a fashionable skirt will be accompanied by sandals, flip-flops and flat sandals.
For casual looks with a pleated skirt, sneakers, loafers, brogues, and comfortable boots are good; for dressy looks, high-top shoes and sandals.
T-shirt
The most fashionable today are straight-cut T-shirts with large prints, adding brutality to the image. It would seem, how to harmoniously combine them with delicate pleated skirts? Pretty easy! Choose a dark T-shirt and tuck it into a midi skirt. Wear comfortable sneakers and complement the look with a cap, glasses or scarf. For such looks, it would be wise to combine plain skirts with colored T-shirts, as well as shoes to match the T-shirt or shoulder bag.
Metallic skirt with plain top
Popular metallic fabrics are very bright, so they are difficult to combine with anything. Especially if it is a pleated skirt, which immediately attracts attention. Therefore, it is better to immediately leave it instead of an accent, and make the rest of the image extremely neutral. Choose a white or milky top for gold and bronze metallics, and black for silver.
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Shirt
This is where you can show all your ability to combine different things from your wardrobe. A formal shirt and pencil skirt are undoubtedly classics, but shirts and pleated skirts are the fashion of the new century. Choose a shirt that is a lighter tone than the skirt or make the look monochrome, choose a necklace or a stylish chain for your neck, complete the look with a stylish hairstyle or let your hair down - each of these options will help you look irresistible every day. But remember, when combining a pleated skirt and a long-sleeved shirt, it is better to choose closed-toe shoes or shoes with heels, because the clarity of the shape and laconicism of the image depends on every detail.
Blouse
And here you can add a little frivolity by choosing a chiffon blouse with short sleeves and comfortable ballet shoes. The black and white color scheme will come in handy more than ever, and a massive bag in this case will only emphasize the perseverance and courage of nature. Among the trends of this season, blouses with an asymmetrical cut, with flounces and fringes also stand out; in this case, it is better to choose a pleated midi skirt, the color of which will set off the blouse. Let the top become the leader in this ensemble, and the bottom will only emphasize the skill of the designers and the beautiful line of the model’s shoulders and neck.
Coat
A royal bow in which you will look not just beautiful, but charming and truly chic. In this version, the skirt should be midi or maxi long, made of thick knitwear, velvet or another, denser and warmer option. The fur coat is undoubtedly shorter, preferably made from short wool, as well as a lightweight cut (without a voluminous hood or sleeves). The trend for winter 2021 will be ¾ sleeves and long leather gloves. Leading colors include pastel tones, nudes and all shades of brown.
How to wear it correctly at different times of the year
Each season has its own rules that should not be broken. For autumn and winter looks, you should wear pleated fabrics made of heavier materials, choosing a midi or maxi length. In spring and summer, lightness is expected, so flowing, airy fabrics are suitable. You can experiment with length from “mini” to “maxi”. You can shine in a midi skirt at any time, regardless of the weather.
In summer
In the summer you want to flutter around without weighing yourself down with thick fabrics, so silk, chiffon or crepe are a godsend for the hot season. You can combine everything, but you need to remember the following points:
- do not combine more than two things of different styles;
- do not overload with “top” and “bottom” prints;
- when combining two contrasting colors, the proportions of the figure are visually distorted;
- wear current white skirts, pink and mint ones are better with a light top;
- A squeak of summer in the form of a shiny pleated design will look stylish with white sneakers or sneakers.
in winter
This style goes well with hats and berets. You can select them in the same color scheme or in contrasting ones. Warm pleated skirts will look good in gray, brown and burgundy.
Winter “midis” will be complemented by a warm pullover or long knitted sweaters. If you really want to wear a short version, then it is better to wear it with high boots and a long coat. Stylists advise not to limit yourself to plain fabrics, but to give preference to checkered pleated fabrics.
In the off-season
The off-season is the time for comfort and nice oversized sweaters. Designers unanimously believe that pleated coats should not be worn with parkas and sports jackets in the fall, but a cocoon coat is ideal. Shades should convey the mood of the season.
For example, wearing a gray pleated skirt with a brown knee-high socks will create an interesting look. Bright purple together with a satin black blouse and a dark coat will create an excellent evening option.
Coat
In this list, the trending find of the season will be the combination of a pleated skirt and a coat, and, as already mentioned, for cool weather it is better to choose a midi length. A military-style coat, redingote, overcoat or cape is best suited, but styles such as polo, cocoon and trench coat combined with pleating are best avoided. Among fashionable colors, designers advise choosing monochrome looks or similar tones. Pay attention to white, black, marsh and coffee.
Top
If you are going to a hot party, then a crop top is the best option. Lace, with fringe, a T-shirt or a racer - any will do, the only condition is that the top should be a more closed type and casual style, because in combination with a pleated skirt, a sporty or too revealing one will look tasteless. It is best to choose tight-fitting models, and shift the emphasis to bright accessories and hairstyle.
What to wear with
Modern fashion allows the use of elegant and feminine pleated skirts in different looks, in combination with classic shoes and sports shoes.
Top
The top of the outfit determines how dressy or casual the look will be. You can combine a pleated skirt with simple sweaters or chic blouses for special occasions.
Blouse
Blouses are the perfect complement to dressy skirts and festive occasions. The basic rule is that for pleated fabrics with a shiny effect, choose matte blouse fabrics. Feminine pleated dresses with a guipure or lace top look great. You need to wear a smart blouse and make your ensemble truly chic to the theater or to a celebration.
Jacket/jacket
A short jacket or blazer complements a business-style outfit and is used for insulation on a cool evening. Jackets are worn in a short version; slender ladies can complement the ensemble with a long model.
Sweater
Soft sweaters of fine and coarse knitting somewhat reduce the elegance and chic of pleated, making the image simpler and more natural. Sweaters with mini models look great. Thin sweaters made of matte yarn are paired with velvet pleated fabrics, which are popular this season.
Shoes
Modern trends allow wearing pleated shoes with different types of shoes; it is important that the outfit looks harmonious. The choice depends on the season, the intended image and the characteristics of the figure. Shoes and tights of the same tone will lengthen your legs.
Ballet shoes
Comfortable ballet flats are worn to work or for a walk; they can be combined with any pleated length. Stylists' recommendation is to choose models with a pointed nose.
Boots
When wearing boots, you should pair a pleated skirt with a biker jacket, denim jacket or heavy knitted cardigan. These additions will balance out the lightness of the pleats and the heavyness of the shoe.
Classic shoes
Pumps that elongate your legs go well with pleated skirts of any length, making the look elegant, feminine and light.
See also
What to wear with black dresses with a white collar and a review of fashionable looks
Boots
High boots are worn so that the top goes under the skirt. It doesn't shorten the legs. Long boots with miniskirts look great on thin girls, the main thing is not to make the miniskirts extremely short.
Loafers
Loafers create an advanced fashionable look. The top should be chosen in the same style - a denim jacket, shirt, T-shirt or jacket. Fashion designers also urge not to be afraid to combine elegant silver and gold fabrics of skirts with loafers.
Sneakers
Sports shoes have become firmly entrenched in women's wardrobes. Fashion allows you to wear white and light-colored sneakers with delicate pleated skirts for shopping, walking, and meeting with friends.
Bodysuit
One of the most convenient options for combining pleating in your wardrobe. Visually emphasizing the line of the body and highlighting all the natural curves, the bodysuit emphasizes the grace of the figure, while the pleated skirt, regardless of the length, makes the image romantic and sophisticated. You can always feel comfortable in such a look, and also perfectly complement it with a jacket, jacket or vest.
Pleated skirt below the knee
A pleated skirt below the knee will not only become the main element of a cocktail look, but will also fit perfectly into an everyday look. Pleated fabrics go well not only with elegant items, but also with sports-style clothing.
If you plan to wear a pleated skirt to the office, then prefer a not too deep midi, which looks too romantic and will not fit into every dress code. Prefer a skirt slightly below the knee, which can be combined with blouses, tops, jackets, jumpers and other things from the office and business wardrobe.
A casual look with a ruffled skirt will work if you wear it with a T-shirt and a belt, pick up a stylish cross-body bag and put on neutral pumps. In this look you can go to a restaurant, to any informal event and even to an art exhibition.
Particularly noteworthy are the multi-colored, variegated and printed pleated ones, which today are tried on by famous fashion icons and celebrities. To make a colorful skirt an accent, it is recommended to combine it with a neutral top, such as a T-shirt, tank or top, but you can choose accessories and shoes with more vibrant colors.
Transparent pleating was introduced into fashion by the house of Dior, stars have already tried them on for the red carpet, and in everyday life transparent pleating is worn over bodysuits and tight-fitting jumpsuits as part of evening looks. Plus, this is a great option for a romantic date.
For a date, you can wear an opaque pleated skirt with a crop top and sandals. And if you want to create a trendy casual look, then instead of sandals, wear sneakers, and replace a small bag with a comfortable backpack.
Blazer
A universal option in which a pleated skirt will look harmonious both during the day and in the evening. A jacket and a miniskirt are perfect for a summer walk; by slightly lengthening the edge of the pleating, you can safely go to school; a midi length and a formal jacket with a belt are suitable for business meetings, and a maxi and a looser jacket with an elegant brooch will highlight an evening look. Designers recommend choosing pleated skirts with small pleats, which, combined with the severity of the jacket, will visually make the figure more sophisticated.
Looks with a velvet pleated skirt
You don't need a special occasion to wear velvet today, so pair a fashionable skirt made of this material with casual items and go out on the town. An excellent combination is velvet with leather, as well as with denim and metallic texture.
Wear a velvet ruffle with a biker jacket and you will see how stylishly two bright textures combine.
Velvet is also used to make luxurious evening pleated, maxi and midi skirts. Wear this statement piece with something simple, like a white T-shirt, to avoid overpowering the look.
If you are wondering which velvet ruffled skirt to buy, then give preference to black. A universal option suitable for both daytime walks and evening outings.
Combined skirts with pleated inserts
On the catwalk this season, new models of skirts are also presented, in which pleating is not the main material, but a means of decoration, emphasizing the designer’s idea. In such options, fashion houses use the principle of contrasting materials and shapes, combining light chiffon with heavy velvet, or a short straight base with asymmetrical elongated inserts.
We’ve dealt with combining different clothing options, but it’s worth saying a few words about hats, which when paired with pleated skirts look much more elegant than with other things from the wardrobe. The most successful choice would be slouch, fedora, capelina hats, as well as berets and wreaths. These models are recognized as the best not only for the beauty of the cut, but also for the sophistication of the shapes, emphasizing the lightness of the folds. In addition, it is easiest to choose a hairstyle for such a headdress - loose hair, a careless bun or a low ponytail, and the look is complete.
Fashionable pleated skirts
A modern pleated skirt is a garment that is below the knee length. At Paris Fashion Week, Céline decided to experiment with colors, pairing a dark crimson pleated skirt with bright shoes and a blouse. This time, Missoni decided to replace the signature zigzags with a wide horizontal stripe, which looks especially unusual on maxi creations.
At the pre-show of the fall clothing collection of Christopher Kane, a pleated emerald skirt looked harmonious with a dark green sweater and dark fuchsia accessories. This fall, black and gray pleating is a must have in your wardrobe. This is not the first season that Proenza Schouler designers have successfully combined elements of street style and feminine elegance in their creations.
Unlike the winter collections, the spring-summer and autumn collections feature less and less pleating, decorated with bright prints. Designers prefer simple details. The creators of Huishan Zhang called their fall clothing line nostalgic for French Bohemia and created a skirt decorated with vertical lace stripes. But Tomas Maier does not recognize any decor and therefore there is no pretentiousness in his clothes.
Chiffon pleated skirt
A pleated chiffon skirt looks unusual in any outfit. This airy fabric allows the body to breathe, and adds a touch of solemnity to each look. At the top of its popularity is the asymmetrical pleated chiffon skirt. If you want to look according to the latest fashion trends, along with pastel colors, choose clothes in subdued, dark colors. And a white skirt is always beyond competition.
Chiffon pleated skirt
Fashionable chiffon pleated skirt
Leather pleated skirts
Pleated miniskirts are gradually being replaced by midi-length skirts, which look great in the outfit of any fashionista. It will be the perfect decoration for your look, adding a touch of avant-garde and individual style to it. This season, stylists recommend paying attention to clothes in red and black. Leather skirts in yellow, orange or blue are a thing of the past.
Leather pleated skirts
Stylish leather pleated skirts
Knitted pleated skirt
A warm black, dark blue, red or gray pleated skirt is a must-have in the autumn-winter wardrobe of everyone who loves feminine things and casual style. Many people associate it with retro style. For cool weather, combine a ruffled skirt with ankle boots, sneakers, stiletto boots or cube heel boots. It looks great with oversized jumpers and turtlenecks.
Knitted pleated skirt
Fashionable knitted pleated skirt
