They’re more versatile than you think.
More than just a preppy favorite, pleated skirts are a perennial closet staple that can be styled with just about anything. It’s also one of those few fashion items that seem to transcend occasions, being a go-to piece for dressier events, but also offering effortless polish to even the most casual of outfits.
Depending on the pieces you pair the iconic silhouette with, you can easily switch up your look from soft and feminine, to retro and sporty, or even a mix of two entirely different styles. Read on for some of the most popular ways to wear the pleated skirt (in every length) this season and beyond:
K-Style
Ever wanted to dress like your favorite k-drama leading lady? Well, turns out most of them follow a similar style formula. Case in point: this laid-back combo that every heroine seems to be wearing on their days off or on a relaxing drive away from the city — sound familiar?
Lucky for us Hallyu fans, this effortless aesthetic is just as easy to recreate as it looks. Simply layer a chunky knit sweater over your pleated skirt, throw on a dainty crossbody bag, and complete the look with your favorite pair of Converse.
Modern Prep
If you’re more of a mini skirt kinda girl, this season’s preppy trend may just be your new favorite way to dress up. The best part is, you likely have some of these pieces in your wardrobe already.
Channel your inner Blair Waldorf with a collared shirt, sweater vest, and a pleated mini skirt. Classic colors like blue and white are no-brainers for this look, but feel free to experiment with different hues for a modern take on the trend. You can even add a Gen Z twist with some trendy accessories in quirky patterns.
Soft Grunge
In the mood for something a bit more rebellious? Here’s a grunge version you can try out.
Similar to the preppy look, you’ll want to start with a pleated mini skirt as the focal point of your outfit. And if you’ve got a checkered or plaid skirt in your closet, then consider half the job done. All that’s left now is to throw on any neutral-colored top and toughen up your look with a leather jacket, a black shoulder bag, and some classic Doc Martens.
Parisian Flair
You really can’t go wrong with a blazer and pleated skirt combo, especially if you’d like to capture some of that covetable je ne sais quoi that every French girl seems to naturally possess.
Strike a balance between sophisticated and effortless by pairing your basic white shirt with a slouchy blazer and an ankle-grazing pleated skirt. Lastly, accessorize the Parisian way by incorporating one trend piece at a time and keeping the rest of your jewelry to a minimum.
Sporty Chic
Given that athleisure is here to stay, there’s no better time to invest in a cute tennis skirt than right now (yup, you don’t actually have to play the sport to own one). They’re versatile, comfy, and totally sensible to wear both on and off the court.
For that quintessential sporty look, pick your favorite tank top or longline sports bra to match with your skirt, tie a sweater over your shoulders, and slip into your favorite sneakers (or any type of training shoe, really).