Fashion
13 Pleated Pieces That Don't Look Like A School Uniform
Some things simply never go out of style: the trench coat, pencil skirts, Birkin bags, PB&J sandwiches, etc. Because when it works, it works. That being said, the classics are always being reinvented, and one of our favorite timeless trends is pleats. The accordion design is equal parts playful and polished and there are plenty of ways to wear them other than on school uniforms and tennis skirts. Here, 13 ways to pull off pleats in the modern world.
Pleated Leather Shoes
Behold: the perfect pair of frolicking shoes. Subtle pleats on the distressed canvas lend a worn-in look that’ll improve with every wear.
Bed|Stü Rhett Distressed Oxford, $95, freepeople.com
Pleated Midi Skirt
Its large pleats and fitted high waist make this midi skirt a statement piece for the everyday. Make it your new wardrobe staple.
Midi Skirt With Full Pleats, $56, asos.com
Pleated Dress
For pleats that are a little less defined, try this cobalt a-line dress. Its subtle details and deep v-neck will compliment your favorite statement necklace.
Curtsy for Yourself Dress in Cobalt, $92.99, modcloth.com
Pleated Vegan Leather Skirt
This vegan leather skirt is a refreshing shade of minty blue. Oh, and there are pockets. Win!
School Daze Skirt, $58, nastygal.com
Pleated Shift Dress
A pleated side adds another dimension to this color block shift dress.
Paisie Two Tone Shift Dress, $100, johnlewis.com
Pleated Suede Flats
All-around pleats dress up these suede flats.
Nina Ricci Pleated Ballet Flat, $219, barneys.com
Pleated Collared Shirt
Okay, so maybe the collar is a bit reminiscent of those school uniform shirts. But pair this top with some sleek leather pants for a look that’s new school.
Therapy Pleat Yoke Shell Blouse, $50, houseoffraser.co.uk
Pleated Shorts
Pale pink pleats are pretty and polished. (Say that five times fast).
Pleated Crepe Short, $75, jcrew.com
Pleated Silk Top
A patch of pleat adds interest to this teal silk top.
Pleated Silk Midi Top, $118, anthropologie.com
Pleated Maxi Dress
We love the contrast of this shapeless maxi mixed with a sharp geometric graphic.
Orange Crush Pleated Maxi Dress, $130, pixiemarket.com
Pleated Blouse
We’ll call this one the “pillar pleat.” Its classic, flowing silhouette offers versatility while its neon color lends an element of excitement.
Vince Camuto Flowing Pleated Blouse, $50, lordandtaylor.com
Pleated Harem Pants
A spread of pleats dresses up these cotton harem pants. For an elongated look, pair with your favorite heels. The scalloped ankle detail will draw eyes down.
Labour Of Love Multi Pleat Trousers, $197, farfetch.com