Pleated mini skirts are the perfect mix of girly meets structure. They add a classic yet preppy look. Bonus – depending on how you style them, you can wear them all year long. Take a look in your closet and you’ll get some ideas! Here is what I wore with my skirts.
This post was originally published in January 2022 and updated in December 2024.
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The Unknown and Highly Avoided Skirt
Aren’t sure how to style a mini pleated skirt? I totally get it. Would I look silly? Am I too old to wear one? If you are midsize or have curvy figure, you might feel that pleated skirts might not work for your shape. I hear you!
Style Challenge: Try a Pleated Mini Skirt
One of my goals as a blogger (and woman) is to try new styles. I was not into wearing a pleated skirt until two things happened: 1. I found the right one and 2. figured out how to style it. This was one of the styles I was determined to try on a size 12 body. The key for me was to find a skirt that fit and was high quality.
The Search for the Right One
This search was a journey as I could not find a skirt that actually fit me! It took weeks of researching reviews, ordering and hoping, then returning. I decided to be open going up in sizes since the number or letter didn’t matter anyway. Additionally, I read the reviews on Amazon and filtered them by weight. Finally, I ordered one and BOOM! It fit! Now a pleated skirt is a wardrobe staple in my closet for every season!
It is the Shorts and Tights for Me
What makes these skirts even better is that many come with built-in shorts underneath (awesome – right?). The shorts underneath make a huge difference since I don’t have to worry about the length of the skirt. You can just put this skirt on and go.
Additionally, the fact that you can wear tights underneath is a bonus! That makes this a piece that I can wear in the fall and winter. I can seamlessly transition between seasons. Alright, enough yapping, let’s go!
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Sizing Tips:
- Skirt – Size 12 in the skirt. It is the same skirt in different colors.
- Bodysuit – Size xl
- Sweater – Size medium
- Collared Sleeveless Top – Size xl
Here are three outfits you can actually wear. I did and loved them!
Outfit One: Casual Vibes with a Cozy Sweater
First, the combination of a pleated mini skirt and a relaxed sweater offers gives you a cute and laid-back vibe. The white sweater with a bold “LOVE” graphic is playful, while the black pleated skirt contrasts nicely. I thought it was the cutest sweater when I saw it. This outfit is perfect for matcha with friends or a casual winter meet-up. Plus, these tights kept me super warm! The addition of lug soled black boots, paired with black tights, brings a bit of edge, and the oversized sweater gives it a cozy touch. The best part? The built-in shorts underneath the skirt ensure that you can move around with ease.
The key with this look was to get a sweater that was not too oversized. Just a bit slouchy was all I needed. Also, I liked that it is a bit of a mocked turtleneck so it kept me warm. I wore this black skirt with tights when I went to New York. You can checkout that outfit here.
More on the Pleated Skirt
A pleated skirt is an instant classic! Read more about pleated skirts below:
“Folded into the meticulously pressed layers of a pleated skirt are centuries of history and eminent style references. The technique dates back to Ancient Egypt, resurfaced when it was adopted by flappers in the 1920s as a cultural signifier of movement and freedom and has permeated fashion ever since. Pleated skirts are a staple in academic uniforms, define preppy and tennis-centric trends, and catalyze stirring strains of early aughts minimalism.”
– IN STYLE MAGAZINE
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Outfit Two: Preppy Chic and Sleek
Next, for a more polished and preppy look, pair a plaid pleated skirt with a bodysuit and a sweater over your shoulders. The black bodysuit is sleek, while the plaid skirt adds a preppy vibe. The gold belt elevates the look and gives the outfit more structure. Additionally, the flat loafers are a comfortable yet trendy. This outfit is perfect for the weekend.
“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.”
Source: Who What Wear
Outfit Three: Sporty and Breezy for Summer
Finally, when the weather warms up, pleated skirts offer an effortless way to look cute and feel comfortable. For this outfit, I paired a stretchy black collared top with a beige pleated skirt. The sleeveless top super stretchy and hits right at the waist. Also, I added my platform slides which I rock all summer. Another perfect weekend outfit! I should know since I that’s when I wore it.
Why Midsize Women Should Try Pleated Mini Skirts
Lastly, as you can see, pleated mini skirts are versatile and can be styled in so many ways! You can layer it up for colder months or wear them as is for the warmer seasons. The built-in shorts let you move around without any worries.
Let’s summarize the styling tips:
- Most of your bodysuits will work well with these skirts as they are sleek.
- Belts are a must have to elevate the look.
- Boots high or low work.
- Tights look amazing with pleated skirts.
- You can layer a sweater for texture and warmth.
- Loafers, sneakers, and platform slides work too.
- Don’t forget some gold jewelry to elevate the outfit.
Caring for your pleated skirts:
As far as caring for your pleated skirts, I wash them delicately and hang dry. Then, I iron or steam the skirt to keep the pleats sharp and clean. I keep these skirts hung so I can just throw the skirt and go!
So, if you’ve been hesitant about trying a pleated mini skirt, go for it. Don’t be afraid to experiment with colors, textures, and accessories! Tell me, how will you wear your skirt? You can read another post related to skirts here.
