Pleat It Again, Sam

Venus Versace by Christopher Kane

One of the cutest trends of both Winter and Spring is that of the accordion pleated skirt. It marched down the Winter 2010/2011 runways last year and stuck around for the Spring shows in September, the only differences being the material: leather and other heavy fabrics for the colder months and light, airy chiffons and cottons for when the big chill is over.

Pleats have strong staying power because they never stop being pretty. They're also as girly as ruffles but streamlined and less stuffy; so they can be worn with a multitude of things in your closet. There is also less danger in going shorter with accordion pleats; the pattern on a miniskirt is cute and modern and, on a knee-length or longer one, immediately makes you look as graceful as a ballerina.


via The Fashion Spot


Miu Miu

While the diehard fashionista in you is going to beg to wear those accordion pleats with your oversized, cableknit sweater, don't do it. Unless you have a straight-up-and-down, size zero frame, (or you're Karen) the sweater just doesn't give enough definition to the A-line shaped skirt. Instead, try something with a slightly nipped-in waist like a structured jacket or even a tucked-in, belted tee shirt to balance it out and provide you with an instant hourglass figure.

Urban Outfitters Pins and Needles Pleated Skirt, $59, is pure perfection in both it's nuetral gray color and knee-grazing length. And Forever 21's lavender Tiered Pleat Dress, $30 can definitely be stowed away, awaiting a big reveal at the first garden party of May. They also have this skirt, and this skirt, both $18 and pretty classic pieces for seasonless style.


Elaine of CLOTHED MUCH, in a Forever 21 skirt.