How To Properly Wear Pleats

BottegaVeneta

Photo: Bottega Veneta Spring 2014 Ready-to-Wear (Style.com)

Whether you’re stepping out in a sharp dress with knife pleats or channelling your inner fashionista with a subtly elegant accordion-pleated skirt, finding the perfect pleated outfit can be a sartorial challenge. With bright shades, bold patterns and statement cuts, there’s a pleasing pleat out there for everyone’s wardrobe. Here’s our guide to embracing pleats and bringing this cutting-edge and timeless look into your wardrobe this fall:

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Pair an accordion-pleated midi skirt with a flowing chiffon blouse: If you’re looking for a slight fold instead of a statement box pleat, try a dainty skirt with a pretty accordion pleat and a flowing blouse. This super versatile ASOS Pleated Midi Skirt in Red, $ 76 is a gorgeous addition to your work wardrobe and a chic weekend look. Stay away from an overwhelming printed top, and embrace a solid cream blouse instead for an understated look.

Stick to thinner pleats if you have a petite figure: Petite fashionistas (under 5’4) can still rock the trend, with a thinner pleat as opposed to wearing a bold frock with wide knife pleats. Try a classic pintucked dress to emphasize a small figure, like this Tahari Pintuck Chambray Fit & Flare Shirtdress in Petite, $ 94.

Combine a pleated peplum top with skinny denim: Bring a balance into your ensemble, with a pleated peplum top and dark wash skinny or slim-fit jeans to make a shapely silhouette. We like this ASOS Cami with High Neck and Pleated Peplum, $ 33 in a delicate creamy white shade.

Dress up a knife or box-pleated skirt with a white button-down blouse: While a sharp pleated knee-length skirt might bring you back to your schoolgirl days, you can update the trend for a splendid office look. This Halogen Pleat Midi Skirt in Black-Navy Limoge Stripe, $ 90 is a stunning colour combo which is perfect for building a neutral look. If you’re a fan of basic black, also try this classy Topshop Pleat Midi Skirt, $ 120 with a blouse.

Tone down a bright pleated dress with neutral garnishing: There’s no need to go overboard when incorporating the pleated trend into your fall styles. Balance out a bold neon dress like this ASOS Midi Dress with Pleated Skirt in Green, $ 83 with a dark denim jacket, black flats, a thin brown belt or an oversized camel tote bag.

Original article: How To Properly Wear Pleats