This is one micro-trend I've been bookmarking for a while now, curious about whether it would really become something. As a fashion editor, this is something I do a lot. It's similar to investigative work (except no one's lives are at stake). We get a lead on something, follow it for a while, and see if anything larger comes of it. When that finally happens, you end up reading about it here. Today, the trend I'm finally excited and confident enough to report on is pleated miniskirts.
After seeing dozens of fashion girls dabbling with pleated minis, I figured it was time to start breaking down the "why" and "how" backing the gradual success of this skirt trend. When you see or think of pleated miniskirts, it's safe to assume that private school uniforms, tennis, and cheerleaders come to mind, but once you see the various ways fashion girls have been styling them, you won't even remember what your school uniform used to look like.
The nature of this skirt gives off a preppy vibe that you might not be used to incorporating into your personal style, but with the right counterparts and the seven styling tips ahead, I have the utmost faith that you'll be able to tackle the trend. From cardigans to cowboy boots, get ready to learn how to style my new favorite skirt trend of the year and shop some of the coolest versions below.
Plaid Pleated Mini Skirt + T-Shirt + Oversized Leather Jacket + Sneakers
Contrary to popular belief, you can get a tad edgier on how you embrace this skirt silhouette. Try styling it with an oversized leather jacket, T-shirt, sneakers, and rimless sunglasses. The look will be sporty and spicy at the same time.
Cool girls, apply here.
Olivia Rodrigo, WYA?
It doesn't get much cooler than these kicks.
Pleated Mini Skirt + Cropped Tank Top + Sneakers
Clearly, leaning into the sporty aesthetic is an obvious way to style the pleated mini skirt. But you can make it feel more stylish by taking inspiration from the above look—pair an athletic pleated skirt with a cropped tank top, stretchy headband, sunglasses, and a trendy pair of sneakers.
Even if you're not on the court, this headband will keep your flyaways in check.
You'll never regret investing in a quality tank top.
Score!
Pleated Mini Skirt + Blouson Jacket + Loafers
You can tap into the sporty aesthetic without looking like you've just stepped off the tennis court. The key is to style this pleated mini skirt with more polished items, such as an oversized blouson jacket, socks with loafers, and a quilted shoulder bag.
Pleated Mini Skirt + Cardigan + Socks + Slingbacks + Shoulder Bags
If you're uninterested in attaining the sporty spice aesthetic, but live for geek chic fashion, the outfit above is right up your alley. Styling a cardigan with a matching pleated skirt and slingback heels will always earn you brownie points with the teachers.
Plaid Pleated Mini Skirt + Sweater + Peacoat + Moto Boots
Don't want your pleated skirt to read too school-girl coded? Pair a plaid skirt with a contrasting contrasting peacoat, oversized hobo bag, and moto boots. It will strike the perfect balance between being formal and casual.
Are you not into printed skirts? Go monochrome with your ensemble by pairing your favorite t-shirt with a pleated miniskirt of a matching shade. It's arguably the easiest way to make this staple feel a bit more elevated this spring.
Pleated Mini Skirt + Button-Down Shirt + Blazer + Sneakers + Shoulder Bag
Have you ever seen a mini skirt look so professional? Probably not. When styled with a button-down shirt, sneakers, and a trendy shoulder bag, this outfit is living proof that pleated skirts work for all purposes.
You'll wear this black blazer for years to come.
Aritzia's pleated skirts are popular among the fashion crowd.
Business casual, done right.
Pinstripe Pleated Mini Skirt + Matching Button-Down Shirt + Ballet Flats + Quilted Shoulder Bag
One of the most effortless ways to elevate your striped button-down shirt this spring is by styling it with a matching pleated mini skirt. If you finish off the look with a pair of ballet flats and a quilted shoulder bag, you'll be the walking embodiment of elegance.
Pleated Mini Skirt + Turtleneck + Cardigan + Belt + Cowboy Boots + Snakeskin Bag
Who said you had to get all matchy-matching with your look? Sure, we love how well a turtleneck pairs with a pleated mini. But it's even better when it's contrasted with a pair of cowboy boots and a snakeskin shoulder bag.
White turtlenecks are seasonless.
Chic, chic, chic.
Giddy up.
Pleated Mini Skirt + Cropped Polo Shirt + Vintage Bag + Retro Sneakers
If you can't possibly imagine wearing cowboy boots with a pleated mini skirt then go for a more "traditional" pairing with a twist. By opting for a cropped polo, vintage shoulder bag, and retro kicks you'll make this skirt stand out without having to take too many style risks.
We love a polo with a cropped hemline, especially one that's likely to break the dress code.
It's a need, not a want.
Sublime. No notes.
Pleated Mini Skirt + Sweater Vest + Loafers + Bowler Bag
When in doubt, you can't go wrong with styling a pleated skirt with other preppy essentials—i.e., a navy blue sweater vest, socks, chunky loafers, and a bowler bag. It's a failproof formula for making any ensemble look fabulous this spring.
The perfect layering piece for spring.
Are you even embracing preppy fashion if you don't have a Miu Miu purse?
You can wear this skirt off the court too!
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