Once dismissed as outdated, the pleated skirt is staging a stunning comeback this season. Showcased on Fashion Week runways by leading designers, it's the centerpiece of the neo-bourgeois trend—a sophisticated blend of urban polish and preppy elegance (BCBG style).
Versatile and adaptable, the pleated skirt pairs seamlessly with cozy sweaters, leather jackets (perfectos), or simple tees. It shines in rock, bohemian, or even sporty looks.
Discover the best ways to wear a pleated skirt this winter and how it flatters your body type in our expert guide, drawn from years of styling experience.
Hesitant about adopting the pleated skirt? Its lightweight, fluid design flatters all figures, making it a wardrobe essential.
Its fluidity beautifully accommodates curvier shapes.
Opt for darker, solid colors to avoid drawing attention to the lower body. Choose lightweight fabrics and skip heavy options like leather pleats, which can weigh down the silhouette.
Balance with a neckline that highlights the upper body. For a slimmer look, pair with heels and cinch at the waist.
The pleated skirt elongates petite silhouettes perfectly.
Pair with heels—think heeled ankle boots—to avoid appearing shorter. Keep tops cropped: a leather jacket, denim jacket, or short blazer enhances height.
Tall? Skip high heels to avoid overwhelming proportions.
Team with trendy sneakers like Adidas Gazelles for a fresh vibe. Flowy or oversized tops create an effortlessly stylish balance.
Pleated skirts come in various lengths, but the midi pleated skirt—hitting below the knee—is the modern must-have, ditching the outdated 'Madame' vibe.
For winter warmth, select wool, velvet, or leather. Pair with a chunky knit sweater—oversized or fitted—for endless cozy options. Long pleated skirts remain chic too.
Wondering what top pairs with a pleated skirt? Winter calls for warmth without sacrificing style.
Key tips:
The ultimate jacket? The perfecto (leather biker jacket), a staple in every fashionista's closet.
It tempers the pleated skirt's primness with edge. Channel Sarah Jessica Parker from "Sex and the City" with black ankle boots or heels for glamour.
Coats can be tricky with pleated skirts. Avoid extremes: too short disrupts chic lines; too long hides the skirt. Choose knee-length or just-above, like a wool or faux fur coat.
Dare boots with a pleated skirt?
Absolutely! Heeled boots add femininity and warmth. Try riding boots for neo-bourgeois polish.
Dare gold or silver lamé—winter's shimmer essential.
Ideal for holidays but versatile daily. Pair a gold pleated skirt with a blazer and white shirt (black or navy), or basics and sneakers. White or light gray tops balance beautifully.
Elevate with patterned pleated skirts—animal print or polka dots for trendsetting appeal.
Rules: Contrast top colors (light for dark patterns, vice versa). Pair with knits or cashmere sweaters for elegance.
Style head-to-toe confidently this season.
Leather's luxe appeal shines in pleats for chic sophistication.
Sheer lace tops or all-black (V-neck sweater, boots) work flawlessly.
A year-round staple, the pleated skirt transitions effortlessly from winter to summer. Mix with silk blouses for neo-bourgeois chic or tees and jackets for rock edge.
Top winter trends:
