Pleated skirts have got it all—character, versatility, and comfort, making them a must-have in women’s wardrobes. The flared silhouette and pleats add motion to the outfit, making it feel alive. Unlike other types of skirts, pleated skirts can be worn for all sorts of settings and occasions.
From casual daytime looks to polished formal attire, pleated skirts can effortlessly transition through them all. With the right styling choices and accessories, you can create a look that is both relaxed and refined. Here’s how to style a pleated skirt for any occasion while keeping your look balanced, modern, and intentional.
How to Style a Pleated Skirt for Casual Days
- With T-shirts and Sneakers: Want to keep it casual for the day? Pair your pleated skirt with a solid, printed or text tee to channelise your inner fashionista. The pleated skirt adds a sophisticated touch to the outfit, while the t-shirt keeps it casual enough. Tuck in the t-shirt to keep the look clean or leave it untucked for a more rustic vibe. Pair your outfit with a pair of classic white sneakers to keep the look minimal, or match them with the colour of your t-shirt or skirt for a more dramatic take.
- With Polo Shirts and Striped Knits: If you think regular t-shirts are a bit too casual, you can opt for polo t-shirts for a smart casual vibe. With polo t-shirts, you have a wide range to explore and create a look that goes with your style. From basic, solid-hued t-shirts to striped full-sleeved ones, you can choose one that fits your vibe.
- With Leather and Bomber Jackets: Add a layer of warmth and style by pairing your pleated skirt outfit with a leather or bomber jacket. Choose cropped options if you are wearing a midi or maxi pleated skirt to balance the proportions. For mini pleated skirts, oversized jackets hit the right spot. You can also buy matching sets like the bloom jacket and pleated skirt for a coordinated look.
How to Style a Pleated Skirt for the Office
- Pleated Midi Skirt with Blouse: Pleated midi skirts are the perfect addition to your office wardrobe. They offer the perfect length for office wear, and the pleated texture adds visual interest. Skirts made from premium fabrics like silk and satin in rich hues function as the ideal base to create chic office outfits. Pair them with office-appropriate blouses or shirts and tailored blazers to look your professional best.
- Pleated Skirt with Knit Pullover: For colder months, choose to pair heavier or woollen pleated skirts with knit pullovers and winter coats. Keep the look polished by choosing earthy tones or going for monotone combinations. Accessorise minimally with a muted handbag, fine jewellery and scarves, etc., to look presentable while beating the winter chills.
- Pleated Skirts with Long Blazers: Long blazers pair beautifully with pleated midi skirts. The long length of the blazer adds structure to the flowy silhouette of the skirt, creating a flattering silhouette. A belt can be added over the blazer to cinch in the waist and add more dimension. Experiment with different fabrics and colours to create fashionable office looks with pleated skirts.
How to Style a Pleated Skirt for Evenings and Parties
Glam Evening Look: Occasions like cocktail parties, dinners and festive nights demand an outfit that is glamorous and comfortable. Midi and maxi pleated skirts are best suited for these occasions. Choose from a satin camisole, a silk blouse, or a fitted corset top depending on the type of occasion. An additional layer, like a bedazzled blazer or a faux-fur jacket, with suitable footwear and accessories, completes the look.
Edgy Night-Out Look: Planning for a fun night out with your girlfriends, but don’t know what to wear? Pull out that leather pleated mini skirt from your wardrobe and pair it with a sheer top or a bodysuit to create a no-fuss, edgy night-out look. Keep the footwear comfortable with options like ankle boots, combat boots or platform heels, as you are most likely to dance the night away.
Elegant and Minimal Look: Heading to a formal event or a classy gathering that requires you to dress elegantly? A midi or maxi pleated skirt works as a chic and comfortable base to build your outfit on. Stick to premium fabrics that have a nice sheen, like silk or satin, in earthy tones or rich jewel tones. To create a sophisticated look, pair the skirt with a high-neck blouse or a one-shoulder top in similar tones.
How to Style a Pleated Skirt by Length and Fabric
The length and fabric of your pleated skirt play a crucial role in deciding the formality and overall aesthetic of your outfit. You can style them with different elements to create suitable looks. Here are some basic styling tips to get you started:
Styling by Length
- Mini Skirt: Pleated mini skirts can be worn throughout the year, but with the right styling. These are best paired with fitted tucked-in tops or loose-fitting, oversized t-shirts, knee-high boots, sneakers and a structured jacket or blazer for a balanced and chic look.
- Midi Skirt: The most versatile of them all, a pleated midi skirt is best paired with shirts, silk blouses, tucked-in sweaters and blazers. Add your favourite pair of heels to elongate the silhouette and a structured bag to complete the look.
- Long Skirt: Pleated long skirts are best suited for sophisticated occasions, when you want your outfit to ooze elegance. These are best paired with fitted bodysuits, satin camisoles, and corset tops. For more structure, a belted blazer or long coat can be added on top. You can read more about long skirt styling tips here.
Styling by Fabric
- Faux Leather/Leather: Perfect choice for achieving edgy, nighttime looks, these are best paired with cropped, fitted tops and turtlenecks, boots and leather jackets.
- Satin/Silk: Offers a romantic, dreamy look and is best styled with delicate blouses and tops in similar fabrics, especially v-necklines.
- Wool/Heavy Fabrics: A must-have for colder months, these are best styled with full-sleeve, fitted tops and knitted pullovers.
Key Tips on How to Style a Pleated Skirt
When styling a pleated skirt, there are certain tips which you must keep in mind.
- Top Pairing: Pleated skirts have a flowy silhouette that is best paired with fitted tops like turtlenecks, bodysuits, or tucked-in tops to create balanced proportions.
- Layering Options: Additional layers, like a bomber jacket or cardigan, add texture and structure to the ensemble. You can choose a suitable layering option, depending on the weather and setting.
- Footwear Choice: Always opt for a suitable footwear option for a cohesive look. Heels are ideal for a formal, sophisticated setting, boots for an edgy feel, and sneakers to achieve a casual look.
- Add structure: The flowy silhouette of pleated skirts can sometimes make you look boxy, especially when paired with loose-fitted tops. To balance out the look, add a belt or a fitted blazer to create a flattering shape.
FAQs
- What tops look best with pleated skirts?
Pleated skirts have a flowy silhouette that is best paired with fitted tops like turtlenecks, bodysuits, cropped t-shirts, button-down blouses, fitted tanks and camisoles, off-shoulder tops, and graphic t-shirts.
- How to style a pleated skirt in winter?
A pleated skirt made with heavy fabrics and wool is a must-have during the winter season if you want to create chic, polished looks. Pair it with a knit sweater or woollen turtleneck, long coats, warm leggings and boots to get winter-ready in style. Experiment with additional accessories like scarves, caps and belts to enhance the look further.
- Can you wear a pleated skirt to work?
Pleated skirts offer the right amount of sophistication for the office or any other formal setting. Make sure to choose the right length, fabric, and colour, and pair it with suitable tops and accessories to create professional looks.