How to style a pleated skirt: Best ways to ace the classic piece in 2025

Pleated skirts are a stone-cold wardrobe classic – from Cher Horowitz’s iconic yellow tartan number to Miu Miu’s micro mini (be warned: not for the fainthearted). 

With such a rich variety of designs comes endless styling possibilities, and whether you prefer yours in a slightly longer length, perhaps in a floaty crêpe, or in more weighty plaid à la Olivia Rodrigo, there’s a pleated skirt out there for everyone.

Pleats have a rich history, dating back to ancient Egypt, where they symbolised luxury and status. In modern fashion, pleats gained prominence in the early 20th century with designers like Mariano Fortuny, who introduced his signature Delphos gown. Issey Miyake revolutionised pleating with his Pleats Please line in the 1990s, using heat-set techniques for movement and ease. Today, brands like Loewe reinterpret pleats in contemporary ways, seen in Challengers-inspired tennis styles that blend sport and elegance. 

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Which tops to wear with a pleated skirt? 

For low-key style moments, we recommend that you fully commit to the omnipresent athleisure trend. Take you cues from the Wimbledon stars and pair a white pleated mini with and oversized sweatshirt, tube socks and chunky Dad trainers.

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If you’ve found the perfect midaxi number and you’re wanting to inject some polish into your workwear wardrobe, team your circle skirt with a fitted polo neck knit. Amp up the drama with a super thick perforated leather belt to add some texture – scour the pre-loved designer sites for a vintage piece by Alaïa or Balmain for maximum impact.

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H! Fashion shares the best ways to style a pleated skirt:

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Maxi Mode

Maxi silhouettes make for a stunningly modest yet modish choice. Take it from Chopova Lowena, pleated maxi skirts are very much here to stay.

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Dreamy Denim

Denim pleats? Sign us up. The perfect blend of Y2K sass and school-girl sweetness, this nostalgic combo is essential for Gen Z style lovers.

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Modish Midi

Pleated midi skirts have taken street style by storm – no doubt thanks to Miu Miu. Pair yours with a chunky belt and ‘Office Siren’ shirt for a geek chic aesthetic.

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Preppy Plaid

Pleated needn’t be white – in fact, they look perfect in plaid. The heritage check can be elevated with a kitschy graphic knit or baby tee for a unique contemporary look. 

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Sporty Chic

There’s no denying that the pleated skirt is a feminine classic, so why not throw some contrast into the mix? A retro track jacket pairs brilliantly with the mini silhouette, as so coolly demonstrated above. 

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Over Trousers

East London’s unofficial dress code, layering a pleated skirt over your trousers is your one-way ticket to cool-girl status. Kooky but creative, this style is ideal for playful dressers wanting to stand out.

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