As women have begun ditching their work-from-home sweatpants and returning to "real clothes," a new wardrobe staple has begun to emerge: the pleated skirt. To help you find your next summer wardrobe staple, we've rounded up our recommendations for the best-pleated skirts, along with tips on how to style them.
While pre-pandemic, the dominant style was a basic, solid-colored midi skirt; the latest pleated skirt trends offer a wide variety of silhouettes, lengths, and pleat sizes to choose from. So if you've already got a classic pleated skirt hanging in your closet, try one of the new trends emerging from the Internet, like the pleated tennis skirts and pleated schoolgirl skirts that have taken over Tik-Tok.
Keep Scrolling to Find the Perfect Pleated Skirt for Summer 2021
French Connection Pleated Midi Skirt with Contrast Hem
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This sleek Pleated Midi Skirt with Contrast Hem from French Connection goes above and beyond the average pleated midi. Its unique design details and elegant look are sure to make this one of your new go-to skirts.
Its contrasting light blue hem pops against the simple navy body and narrow pleats. A high-rise elasticized waistband makes it easy to pair with crop tops or tuck in longer tees. Plus, the asymmetric handkerchief hem elongates your legs and shows off your favorite high heels, strappy sandals, and sneakers.
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The humble tennis skirt is undoubtedly one of the hottest products in women's fashion in 2021. However, to give the must-have item maximum staying power in your wardrobe, stick to athletic brands and neutral colors.
While this Adidas Originals 'Tennis' Luxe Logo Pleated Skirt looks great on the tennis court or golf course, it looks equally as chic on the streets. The off-white color, green detailing, and breathable, 100% cotton pique fabric gives the skirt a sporty look, while an elasticized waistband and box pleats on the hip and elasticized waistband provide plenty of room to move.
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Heading back to the office soon? This khaki-colored Pleated A-Line Midi Skirt from 3.1 Phillip Lim is ideal for work outfits. While it's versatile enough to use as a basic, its asymmetrical pleats make it a one-of-a-kind piece.
The high-rise, flared a-line silhouette looks chic (and ultra-flattering) with a white blouse, button-down shirt, or basic tee tucked in on top. Plus, it has pockets!
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Another one of the most popular pleated skirts for summer 2021 is the schoolgirl-inspired pleated mini skirt. To keep from looking cliche, stick with solid colors— like this basic black Pleated Mini Skirt from Weekday— instead of traditional tartan plaid. The simple silhouette is playful, versatile, and surprisingly easy to dress up or down. It pairs well with graphic tees, feminine blouses, and cozy sweaters come fall.
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This versatile Pleated Maxi Skirt from H&M Conscious is sure to become your new favorite skirt this summer. The simple look and lightweight woven fabric make it the perfect choice for beach days, vacations, and backyard BBQs. Its high waist, elasticized waistband, and flowy fit make it both comfortable and flattering. Plus, it has a short inner lining skirt that keeps the light-colored fabric from being too sheer.
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According to trend forecasters, knit separates are going to be one of the biggest women's fashion trends for fall. But why wait when you can get ahead of the trend with this ultra-chic Ira Compact Knit Pleated Skirt from Jonathan Simkhai.
Its stretch rib knit is figure-flattering on all shapes and sizes and offers all the comfort of your favorite pair of sweatpants. The rich pumpkin orange color pairs well with everything from earth tones to basic black and white to pops of unexpected colors like bright yellow or red. Complete your look with the coordinating Jonathan Simkhai Zayla Compact Off-The-Shoulder Sweater.
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Madewell's Denim Pleated Mini Skirt is a fun take on a summer favorite: the classic denim skirt. The workwear-inspired style is made with rigid 100% cotton denim and a timeless medium wash for a true vintage feel. Pair it with a tank top and your favorite summer sandals now and with a cozy sweater and ankle boots come fall.
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This Asymmetrical Colorblocked Wrap Belted Skirt from DKNY is the type of piece you keep forever. Throw it on with a blouse, button-up, or blazer for an easy last-minute outfit for work.
The black wrap skirt has an accordion-pleated underlay that hits just below the knee. It's simple black and white color palette and timeless fit perfectly balance the unique layering and color blocking details that make it so special.
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While many fashion experts expected animal print skirts to be a short-lived trend, they've now become a bit of a wardrobe staple. Add this chic Ganni Leopard-Print Pleated Georgette Skirt to your wardrobe now, and you'll be wearing it for seasons and seasons to come. The simple midi-length A-line cut, micro-pleated polyester fabric, ruffle hem, and banded waistband brings balance to the loud leopard print.
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If there's one pleated skirt worth investing in, it's the decadent Coraline Wool and Silk Pleated Midi Skirt from The Row. Its rich wool and silk blend is available in two versatile shades, tan and black. The thick pleats, sweeping hemline, and flattering high-waisted fit make it an obvious choice for wearing to the office.
