How to Wear Accordion Pleats ?

What is ultra-feminine, timeless and more than deserving of a spot in your regular wardrobe rotation? Accordion pleats! Although at first glance these sharp, small pleats may not seem like anything special, trust me when I say that they’re the next big thing! Whether you prefer skirts or dresses (or both!), accordion pleats will instantly become a statement piece that you’ll want to wear again and again. Dress it up with a blouse or pair it with a lightweight t-shirt; either way, you’re bound to look glamorous.

If you’re still on the line with accordion pleats, here’s some inspiration that I think will change your mind!




From Prada and Christian Siriano to Carven, accordion pleats made a major showing in spring 2012 runway shows.

1. How many dresses do you see with accordion pleats nowadays? Leave the low necklines and super short hemlines behind this season. Not only are accordion pleats the ultimate accoutrement, but they’re also extremely classy. Take one look at the pastel floral frock by Prada above, and tell me you’re not in love...sigh.


2. Flowy, effortless and relaxed, this chartreuse maxi skirt by Siriano is absolutely stunning. See how incredible it looks when paired with an everyday tee?

3. Saving my favorite for last, feast your eyes on this printed accordion pleat skirt by Carven. While you may be hesitant to don both pleats and zany prints at the same time, the end result is so worth it! 

It’s unanimous, accordion pleats are a major “DO” and will be sticking around!

Oh, the things that we learn from fashion bloggers. When it comes to hit or miss fashion trends, go directly to the tastemakers themselves. Once every other blogger is sporting a certain trend, you know that it’s either up-and-coming or about to hit mainstream. Based on the gorgeous pleated maxi skirts and dress above, it’s safe to say that everyone is on the pleats bandwagon!

1. Bee (Blair Eadie) does no wrong! Mixing a vibrant purple pleat maxi with a yellow-green top and leather jacket, this look is fierce!

2. Go monochromatic like Annabelle, and wear variations of one color. Accessorize with a sequined clutch and a statement necklace for an easy-to-style ensemble!

3. I never thought I’d say this, but I’m yearning for a highlighter yellow skirt! Emily pulls off this blinding hue so flawlessly that I’m speechless.

4. Based on Juley’s red, white and blue accordion pleat dress, I’d say that the Fourth of July came early this year. For this look, no commentary needed, it’s that fab!






In the details, just look at the endless possibilities when it comes to styling your accordion pleat skirts.

More pleats! If you’re going to invest in one pleated item this season, make it a skirt. From skirts that fall slightly above your knees to full-on maxis, there’s a fit for everyone. Add some character to your accordion pleats by knotting a belt or tucking in a sheer collared blouse. If you’re feeling minimalist, opt for an outfit entirely in pastel hues. Or maybe you want something more eye-catching…hello mellow-yellow maxi!

As much as I love my dresses, one benefit of skirts is that they’re more conventional. Just check out these options:

- Pleats + floral
- Pleats + stripes
- Pleats + silk
- Pleats + a casual t-shirt
- Pleats + a leather jacket
- Pleats + slouchy sweater

 
Try pleats on for yourself, whether it is on a skirt, dress, or a top. These pretty little pleats are much more flattering than the big boxy ones that we are so used to seeing, and they come in ethereal and flowy fabrics such as chiffon and silk, making them ultra-feminine.