How To Style A Pleated Skirt

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There are several different types of skirts that have a timeless appeal.

The silky silhouette of a satin skirt exudes elegance. A mini skirt adds a bit of fun, and is the best way for maximum leg exposure for the warmer months. Pleated midi skirts are a worthy addition to any wardrobe.

The trending pleated skirts at the moment are tennis skirts. The popular pleated skirt has enjoyed a resurgence lately, but midi pleated skirts will always remain a classic piece for an elegant look. 

How To Style A Pleated Skirt

A midi pleated skirt may seem hard to style with its voluminous material. However, it is highly versatile and could be mixed and matched with a variety of different items.

To keep balance and proportion, the top for a pleated midi skirt should be minimal and not loose. You certainly don’t want to look frumpy. Proportion is key with a pleated skirt.

A cropped denim jacket and a pair of white sneakers are the perfect combination for a more casual look. A polished look, involving a blazer and a pair of heels would be perfect for office wear. 

Scroll below for inspo on how to style a pleated skirt.

Tee + Pleated Skirt + Sneakers

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Instagram @zaraamaria

An emblem of the most original “core”—prep dressing à la private school dressing— the pleated skirt is nothing short of iconic.

Chunky sneakers and a simple white shirt add an easy look to the midi length skirt. 

Tee + Midi Skirt + Sandals

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Instagram @armajonline

A timeless take on this wardrobe essential, the black midi pleated skirt is perhaps the most universal of them all.  

The skirt looks elegant regardless of body type or size. Whether worn with a graphic tee or a tiny tank, sandals, or ankle boots, it can be reinvented again and again. 

Tank + Pleated Skirt + Sandals

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Instagram @siddhidangi7


The pleated skirt is an ideal piece for the warmer weather because it is light, immune to wrinkles, and will work for various atmospheres and occasions.

The beautiful silhouette will complement and elevate any top, even one as basic as a tank. 

Blouse + Pleated Midi Skirt + Slingbacks

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Instagram @ich_bins_griseldis

The pleated maxi skirt has a certain staying power, a badge of being forever in. An elegant and buoyant skirt feels and looks incredible on anyone.

Why not add a pop of color to the pleated-skirt outfit? Opt for a pair of red shoes to create a statement style without feeling over the top.

Cardigan + Pleated Skirt + Heels

In a nod to its prim and proper nature, complete the look with a striped cardigan and kitten heels.

The best way to put together an outfit that looks polished? Stick with a tonal look that incorporates pieces from the same color family.

Cardigan + Skirt + Heels

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Instagram @rebekabarath

Not sure what to wear to the office?

A pleated skirt is an ideal accompaniment for simple cardigans or it can be dressed up at a moment’s notice. 

Pleated skirts are simultaneously fluid and structured, strong and graceful.

The style of skirts are versatile, seasonless, and can serve as a bright, effervescent twist of citrus that will elevate any outfit, especially if you work in a fashion-forward office dress code. 

Jacket + Sweater + Pleated Skirt + Boots

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Instagram @nicoleballardini

To make the skirt feel more fall weather–appropriate, style it with other pieces like a leather jacket or an oversized coat.

While pleated skirts may seem better suited for warmer weather, pairing them with an oversized sweater, tights, and even chunky boots will make it work for the colder months, too. 

Experiment with leaving your sweater untucked for a slightly sporty and layered look.

Blazer + Midi Skirt + Heels

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Instagram @b.andz_

​An airy, elegant, floor-grazing skirt is essential for summer, and styled correctly, it can translate well in fall and spring, too.

The easiest way to bring a fall tone to a high-waisted pleated skirt is with an oversized blazer. A timeless blazer will always be in style to finish off any ensemble.

Whether it be a fall date night or a dinner with friends, the contrast of elements are refreshing. Don’t forget high heels in a fun pattern to finish off the look. 

Blazer + Turtleneck + Skirt

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Instagram @nena_kay_

When going to a full monochromatic look, the accessories are especially important. A blazer paired with a pleated skirt is the perfect balancing piece.  

If you feel overwhelmed by the voluminous shapes, ground the look with a statement-making belt to cinch and define the waist. 

Top + Skirt + Boots

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Instagram @eleanorbarkes

Nothing says chic street style like a fashion-forward all black look. With its accordion pleats, the skirt is tasteful and romantic.

Add a form-fitting black top to balance the looser fit of the swirling skirt. Tie it all together with knee high boots and a statement necklace ( or two ).