9 Top Pleated Skirt Ideas and Inspiration

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Karyl Trejo

Trend-Setting Pioneer at Stylelisty

Karyl is a freelance content writer from the beautiful Central Coast of California. She’s been writing professionally for over a decade, and loves writing about topics in fashion, beauty, food and mental health. She has published bylines on numerous reputable medical websites, several local newspapers, and even moonlights as a fiction ghostwriter. When she’s not writing, you can find her training for her next half marathon or penning sappy romance novels.

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A skirt is a garment that’s tight on the waist and falls downwards, covering the thighs and part of the leg, though this largely depends on its length. People also sometimes use the term to define the lower section of a dress.

Going back to the length, though, the hemline on skirts can vary widely. There are mini skirts, sure, but there are also skirts that even touch the floor. This characteristic makes it a versatile type of clothing, and people from different cultures can wear it.

The more basic skirt is when it is a draped type of clothing. How do you achieve this? You grab a piece of fabric, and you wrap it around your body. Voilà! There you have it: a skirt in its simplest form.

Even so, we know you won’t find this too fashionable. Most skirts fit in the actual definition of a skirt: they fit perfectly in the waist or hips, depending on the type of skirt.

If we talk about the fabric used for making them, this has also changed over the years. The fibers used to make skirts can’t be too heavy or light, so they are usually mid-weight fabrics. It can be materials like:

• Cotton
• Poplin
• Denim
• Jersey

Traditionally, only women wore skirts. However, there are exceptions, like skirts (kilts) used by men in Irish and Scottish culture. Still, in the last few years, there has been a boom in the way people view gender roles. 

Because of this, it’s also common for some men to wear skirts, especially if they are in the public eye. (Billy Porter and Harry Styles, we’re looking at you!) Last but not least, most skirts are used as a standalone bottom garment, but people can also wear them with leggings or shorts.

You might also ask yourself, are there different types of skirts? Well, yes! A-line skirt, circle skirt, and gored skirt are some common types. Talking about them would take us too much time, and we don’t want to bore you. So today, we will focus on pleated skirts.

What Exactly is a Pleated Skirt?

Let’s start with the definition of pleated. Pleated means fold. In this case, it is when a fabric or a material has several parallel folds. These folds are made by pressing the fabric together and making it stay that way.

It sounds confusing, but we are sure you have seen this type of fold before. Pleats are attractive, as the folds give the skirt a feminine look. At the same time, the folds provide shape instead of making it look plain and simple.

The pleats also create volume. So if you want to accentuate your waist while giving your body a full shape, a pleated skirt can be a perfect choice.

A Little Bit About the History of Skirts

Skirts represent one of the few earliest examples of clothing that have ever existed. It was the more simplistic way of covering the lower part of the body, and people could make them of animal skin or any other material obtained at the time.

One of the most curious things about skirts is that women but also men wore them. It was later that skirts became a feminine symbol and almost always related to the feminine gender.

The moment of most changes for skirts and their design occurred in the 19th Century. Before that, they were long and voluminous to express influence and power since the fabric was high-priced, and a long one required a lot of that. Mid-19th Century, the skirts were becoming more and more close-fitting.

When the 20th Century came in, the war led women to wear more appropriate clothing for work. That way, the length of the skirt begins a journey where year after year gets shorter.

By 1960, knee-length was the norm, at least until in the middle of the same decade. A new type of skirt appeared to change the industry. If you haven’t guessed by now, don’t worry, we’ll tell you anyway: it was the mini skirt.

Now, you can find people wearing skirts of different lengths, and there’s no specific norm. But since we’re talking about pleated skirts, you might be asking where they originated from. Since the 20th Century, this type of skirt has been used as a part of girls’ uniforms. Then, it gradually became a type of clothing anyone could wear as casual attire.

What are the Top Pleated Skirt Ideas and Inspiration?

Now you know all the basic things you have to know about skirts. What’s a skirt, and what is considered a pleated skirt. You also know part of the history behind it. We are finally in the thing we all were expecting: the top pleated skirt ideas.

But First, Our Selection Criteria

Before showing you the best pleated skirts ideas, you need to know something else. We picked the pleated skirts based on some criteria like user reviews, affordability, and available sizes. We will define each of these briefly to you and then continue with the top skirts ideas.

• Size range. Since not every woman has the same body type, we looked for skirts that had a variety of sizes. Because of that, all the ones that came in only one size were immediately discarded. The more diversity they had concerning the sizes available, the more opportunities they had for making it to the list. You will see that most of the skirts on the list have plenty of those from which to choose.
• Originality. In the last few years, when we talk about pleated skirts, we’re used to seeing the tennis skirt that has become very fashionable in recent years. Don’t worry, we will show you some of those, but we tried to have as much variety as possible. You will see long skirts and short skirts, and you will also see them made of different materials. All so you can choose the one that best suits your style.
• Affordability. High-price clothing doesn’t always mean good quality. We know this, so we strived to make a list full of good quality clothing but at a reasonable price. On this list, most of them are ones below the $100 mark. That way, you can choose a skirt you like and fit your budget at the same time.
• User reviews. We care about what the users have to say. We read the reviews, and depending on that, we decide to add the skirt to the list or not. If there’s anything too good or too bad, we make sure to put it on the pros or cons. We think it is worth mentioning something if a lot of people agree on it.
• Versatility. We believe in the power of changing an entire outfit just by changing the shoes or the accessories you’re wearing. Because of that, we added any skirt that we thought could be worn in different ways. If someone can be casual or elegant with it, then it could make it to the list.

Now, let’s show you the top pleated skirt ideas!

Arket Pleated Skirt

We loved the color of this skirt! It looks casual, and it makes the shape of it stand out. The pleats are narrow at the top, and as the fabric falls, they get bigger. Another thing we loved about it: it’s made of recycled polyester. It’s always nice to help the environment while wearing nice clothes.

Pros:

• Fabric is 100% polyester
• Is available in two colors: black and light beige
• Has a subtle zip closure at the back
• A long skirt, perfect to wear in a fall outfit
• Available in different sizes (but it’s always good to check their size guide!)
• Has a waistband and a babylock stitch at the hem

Cons:

• Not easy to maintain (i.e., can’t use chlorine bleach or iron it)
• Only comes in two colors

Zara Faux Leather Pleated Skirt

Here is the variety that we talked about! We’re used to linking skirts with being feminine, with pastel colors and soft fabrics. However, this skirt goes away from that concept and brings us a more rockstar look that we loved. Plus, the brand is determined to help the environment while making their clothing, so that’s also a good point we considered.

Pros:

• Available in sizes XS-XL
• Comes in a beautiful maroon color
• Fabric made of 100% polyester and coated in 100% polyurethane
• Can machine wash on a gentle cycle
• Comes with a belt at the front

Cons:

• Color and faux leather can be off-putting to some

SHEIN Ditsy Floral Belted Ruffle Hem Skirt

From a rockstar to a more floral vibe, this specific skirt gives us a cottagecore aesthetic vibe we couldn’t ignore. The color is lovely, and the materials look dreamy. You can pair this skirt with sandals or with boots if you want to make a nice contrast.

Pros:

• Fabric is 100% polyester
• Comes in an amazing green floral color
• Can machine wash it
• Users approve of this skirt (and most love its color!)
• Available in several sizes
• Very affordable

Cons:

• Limited color options
• Vintage style isn’t for everyone

Urban Outfitters Lioness Rescue Me Pleated Skirt

Since tennis skirts have been trending in the last few years, we couldn’t just pick any random one in question. This mini skirt is high-waisted while having a pleated hem. The color is lovely, and we think it is very fashionable and feminine.

Pros:

• 100% polyester fabric
• Is machine washable
• Available in sizes from XXS-XL
• Pink color is subtle and delicate, goes well with many skin tones
• Reviews agree the skirt fits true to size

Cons:

• Only available in pink

Los Angeles Apparel Plaid Tennis Skirt

The classic tennis skirt is back! You can wear this one as casual wear or pair it with heels for a more stylish look. What we loved about this one was the different types of colors they have available. They aren’t plain solid colors, but more of different patterns of different shades. You should check which one you like more!

Pros:

• 100% polyester material
• Available in XS-XXL
• High-waisted style
• Fourteen different colors available
• User reviews love this skirt!

Cons:

• Patterned styles aren’t for everyone
• Cut of skirt can be polarizing

Garnet Hill Essential Pleated Midi Skirt

We also needed something more classic on the list, and we thought that this skirt could do the trick. We have to give it extra points for the different colors. This skirt is available not only in black but also in colorful prints. It’s a midi skirt that could not be ignored.

Pros:

• Available in neutrals (black and gray) and fun styles (floral and leopard)
• 100% polyester
• Lined to the knee
• Available in sizes from 0 to 18
• Can wash in the machine
• User reviews love it

Cons:

• Some reviews recommend sizing up

Express High Waisted Pleated Satin Midi Skirt

This midi skirt caught our attention mainly because of the colors. It’s high-waisted, and the waist is nice and stretchy. We thought the design was both elegant and comfortable, and it can easily be dressed up or down.

Pros:

• Completely machine washable
• Polyester elastane mix
• Satin gives the skirt a chic appearance
• User reviews agree that it’s comfortable and classy

Cons:

• Sizing is inconsistent (from too big to too small)
• Only comes in black and blue

H&M Short Pleated Skirt

We love high-waisted miniskirts! This one had a tartan pattern that we needed to include on this list. This exact type of design made the pleated skirt more known in the last decades. Even better, this brand uses sustainable materials, which is always a good thing.

Pros:

• Fabric is polyester and spandex
• Comes in three colors: gray, blue, and black
• User reviews agree that it fits true to size
• Available in sizes from 0 to 18
• Can wash it in the machine
• Is pretty affordable compared to other skirts on the list

Cons:

• Not everyone likes the tartan pattern

Urban Outfitters UO Katie Tennis Mini Skirt

To finish this list, a classic one: the white tennis skirt. It’s the exact design you expect when thinking about a tennis skirt. It’s high-waisted, with button closure and pleats. Sometimes less is more, and this skirt is the perfect example of it.

Pros:

• Available in XS-XL
• Made of 100% breathable cotton
• User reviews love it!
• Fabric is soft and not transparent
• Can be machine washed

Cons:

• Some user reviews say it fits large
• Only comes in white

Our Favorite Style Recommendations

We haven’t finished yet! Did you think that we would throw you out on the street just like that? Right, we showed you pretty skirts, but here are the important questions:

• How do you style them? 
• How do people wear them right now?
• Are they versatile pieces?
• Can you dress them up or down?

All of those are valid questions! Now, we will show you different ways you can style these skirts. That way, you can pick the style that most resembles yours — or dare to use a new one altogether!

Getting Ready for Autumn

From the colors to the other pieces of this outfit, we loved it. We think it is stunning for an autumn look. You can pair this type of pleated mini skirt with a jersey top, some comfy socks, and a pair of flats. If you want to make the look a little warmer, you can add stockings.

For a more minimalist look, you can also choose to overlook the use of accessories, but simple earrings or a chain would look great, too. Either way, it’s still a casual outfit that’s worth trying.

A Preppy, Classy Look

In the autumn, sometimes we just want to wear the most layers of clothing possible to stay warm, but we also want to look chic while doing it, don’t we? We think this outfit made it work.

First, you can wear a neutral blouse underneath everything. It can be white or a color that does not stand out too much since you’re adding in the key pieces over it. This specific outfit added an oversized jacket and a hat in matching colors. To give the final touch to the look, you can wear stockings. It’ll make a charming look! 

All About Those Combined Designs

A total look is when the same fabric or design is used in different pieces of an outfit. This one could classify as one, even if the top is made of other material. It’s still an original outfit.

In this case, the design of the skirt it’s also found in a long sleeve shirt. To give it a more feminine look, you can wear it without fastening the buttons. It’s a more bold and risqué look, but you can make it work with the right accessories.

Combining Faux Leather and Boots

Something that never fails is combining a piece of your outfit with another one, whether because they have the same fabric or color. This time, it was a good idea to combine the jacket with the skirt. This is called leather on leather, and it can go incredibly wrong or look like it’s too much if you’re not careful. 

Still, this outfit made it look elegant by adding some boots and more simple details to the rest of the fit. For example, the blouse underneath is black, making it a great contrast with the brown of the leather.

Throw On a Coat and a Belt

This option plays with the layers around but without going too far. You can pair a black pleated skirt with stockings and boots to make it look elegant. Wearing a belt with a skirt also gives it a nice touch.

For the top, if you’re wearing a jacket or a coat over it, the best is to keep it neutral with colors like black, white, or camel. Then, you can throw your coat to finish the look. You can also add some earrings or rings to make it look classy, as well. 

Pairing a Turtleneck With an Oversized Coat

What is the best way to stay warm while wearing a skirt? A turtleneck sweater never disappoints, and it’ll give you the warmth you may need. Even if that alone is a good option, you can add some other things. For example, if you want to make it more sophisticated, you can wear a coat on top of the sweater. 

Some socks or stockings are also good to maintain the autumn look. However, you won’t have to worry much about the accessories on this one since the turtleneck sweater will get the most attention. 

A Bold and Colorful Look

Not everything related to pleated skirts is about autumn! You can wear them in any season, but of course, the style may need to be different. Feeling colorful? You can try an oversized sweater of the color you like (but steer away from neutral colors). Choose pink, lavender, blue, or even stripes.

Then, you can match the color of the sweater with the boots. You’ll definitely attract attention, that’s for sure! If you want to add something else, it can be some sunglasses or a small purse. 

Long Pleated Skirt and Leather Jacket

Adding a leather moto jacket to an outfit with this type of skirt will make it look more casual. You don’t necessarily have to wear it, but only throw it on top of your shoulders without using the sleeves. To give better contrast, consider a soft pastel color for the skirt and keep the dark color for the jacket. It’ll look feminine while not being too elegant.

You can wear this outfit with heels or even sneakers, depending on what look you’re trying to achieve. Either way, it’s a very versatile combination and goop option for wearing a long pleated skirt.

All Beige, All the Time

What if you wore two shirts, with one on top of another? While that may not initially sound as fashionable, it can definitely work, especially if they’re of similar material and similar colors. And of course, you’ll want to wear the top one unbuttoned. That way, one of the shirts will look like a jacket, flowing above the mini skirt.

Another reason why this outfit works well is that when almost all of the clothing is different shades of beige, the skirt remains in a neutral white. Even the boots are a light beige color! We definitely think it is a good take.

Let the Skirt Do the Talking

Most pleated skirts come in neutral colors like black, white, or grey. At best, they have a tartan design or stripes. It’s weird for this type of skirt to come in other colors, not to mention colors as vibrant as orange or hot pink.

Even so, you can always make colorful skirts work while adding the neutral color that’s otherwise missing. You can wear a white blouse or white heels, like this one outfit. Since the vibrant color will be the one that highlights the most, the other parts of the outfit need to be calmer to help avoid overwhelming the outfit itself.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Our Final Thoughts: Top Pleated Skirt Ideas and Inspiration

Did you pick your favorite one? For instance, do you prefer them long or mini, or do you like them better when they’re white or the tartan design? Lucky for you, we compiled a lot of skirts and styles and how to wear them. 

If we were to choose just one, though, we would pick the Los Angeles Apparel Plaid Tennis Skirt. It comes in different sizes, and the variety of designs left us astonished.

That’s everything for today! We hope you have liked the skirts we chose and the different styles recommendations we gave you. And remember — there’s no right or wrong way to wear a skirt, so just be sure to have a little bit of fun with it the next time you reach for one in your closet!

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