The One Skirt Trend That Matters Right Now

Street style stars made one thing clear at fashion month: Pleated skirts are back. Their presence everywhere from New York to Paris was impossible to miss, and the ways insiders are wearing them are cooler than ever. Styled with everything from flannel shirts and ankle boots to cutout turtlenecks and heels, pleated skirts feel like they have a brand-new lease on life.

Editor Anna LaPlaca observed the rise of pleated skirts in her latest micro-trend report, noting that the shapes are becoming more prevalent as classic "bourgeois" items reenter the wardrobes of fashion insiders this season. While some street style looks have been incorporating traditional versions, we're also seeing twists on the staple. Details like asymmetrical hems, peplum waists, and belting make them feel more modern than their predecessors.

Ahead, see how fashion's best dressers are wearing the trend, and shop cool pleated skirts inspired by their looks.

Look for a minimal, modern take on the pleated skirt.

Details like the peplum waist and high slit make this A.W.A.K.E. Mode skirt instantly read as cool. Net-a-Porter's global buying director, Elizabeth von der Goltz, has it styled immaculately.

Wear one with an oversize flannel.

As we get deeper into the fall months, oversize flannel tops are emerging as a cool trend. Paired with a pleated skirt, it acts as a perfect balancing piece.

Add a vest.

Three-piece suits and waistcoats are trends that have exploded, so why not try wearing one now?

Stick with a tonal look.

The best way to put together an outfit that looks polished? Stick with a tonal look that incorporates pieces from the same color family.

Or an all-white look.

Crisp white separates are another chic way to pull off pleated skirts—especially when the outfit incorporates on-trend details like a cutout turtleneck.

Here's how to wear it for fall.

By adding a turtleneck, a blazer, and knee-high boots, you can craft the perfect outfit for cooler temps.

Layer on a belt.

If you gravitate toward voluminous shapes, ground the look with a statement-making belt.

Another way to style one with a belt.

You can also wear an obi-style leather belt for a streamlined look.

Look for an asymmetrical hem.

Many of the pleated skirt shapes we're seeing now are finished with asymmetrical hems that lend themselves a modern look.

Pair it with boots.

Whether you're wearing ankle boots or knee-high boots, you can't go wrong.

This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.