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.

by Julia Friedman

Pleated Print Skirt

With Festival Season fast approaching, this geometric print skirt is the perfect pleated pick. The full circle skirt is sure to compliment all of your, um, killer dance moves.

Lovers + Friends Santa Cruz Pleated Circle Skirt, $114, urbanoutfitters.com

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

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