One of our main takes from fashion month? Pleated miniskirts are back. This leg-baring silhouette might spark school-day nostalgia in some of us and fear in midi skirt loyalists, but the street style set has rebranded it as a seriously covetable item.
It’s a daunting piece to style—not only because it necessitates your entire leg being on show, but also because it feels intrinsically costumey and reminiscent of Britney Spears in her “…Baby One More Time” era. With Halloween on the horizon, that’s not a risk we want to take (as much as we love Britney).
While I tend to veer toward effortless dressing, I can recognise the satisfaction in conquering a tricky piece of clothing and getting it to work in your wardrobe, especially when said piece is teetering on the edge of cult status. Of course, there’s no harm in taking some help when you can get it—and fashion week attendees have been particularly generous with their outfit inspiration this season. Keep scrolling to see five examples of how to make pleated miniskirts look chic.
Style Notes: Step one to wearing a piece that feels outside your comfort zone? Team it with items you already own and love. Trench coats and black boots exist in many of our wardrobes, so this should be an easy outfit to re-create.
Reformation’s autumn/winter collection is really impressive. We no longer just associate this sustainable L.A. brand with summer dresses. This trench will go with just about everything in your autumn/winter wardrobe.
This simple black pleated skirt will ease you into the trend.
Get ready for the British winter with these chunky boots.
Style Notes: Lean into the preppy vibes this skirt radiates by styling it with a slim embroidered knit. Lug-sole shoes will add just the right amount of edge.
Ribbed knitwear is huge this season. I especially love the pretty embroidered detail on this style, which will look just as good with a skirt as it will with denim and leather.
If Miu Miu’s on board with the trend, so are we.
I bought these recently and can confirm that they’re really versatile.
Style Notes: Leather jacket? Check. Bold hues? Check. This outfit oozes cool and is such an easy one to take from day to night. When the temperature plummets just swap the neon sandals for heeled boots.
If you already possess a black leather jacket, I strongly suggest that a brown version should be next on your wish list. This will look so stylish over autumnal midi dresses and denim, too.
This is the kind of skirt you can wear all through the year. Simply add sandals and a t-shirt in summer.
A splash of tangerine makes every outfit better.
Style Notes: I would happily throw this ensemble on tomorrow and go about my day. It’s relaxed, casual and probably one of the least intimidating looks on this list. I especially love the addition of this year’s cult shoes: Mary Janes.
Layering pieces like this one always come in handy when the weather is unpredictable.
You could also create a tonal look with this skirt, including various shades of sand, camel and rust. Plus, you can’t get more classic when it comes to checks than Burberry.
These A-lister–approved shoes hold a firm place at the top of my autumn/winter wish list.
Style Notes: When you really want to make a statement, there’s no better brand to turn to than Chopova Lowena. Pair your punky pleated skirt with minimal shirting and understated accessories.
An oversized silhouette will keep this combination from looking too “school uniform.”
Guaranteed to turn heads.
This classic bag will complement every outfit in your rotation.
