Welcome to The Essentials, our weekly series highlighting a must-have classic, key to building a timeless, pulled-together closet.
Pleated skirts have been a wardrobe staple for over a century. In the 1920s, pleats were strategically sewn into skirts to give women extra room for walking. A century later, in 2020, creases are embraced for their classic cool factor. You can rest assured that today's options go beyond the tartan-clad parochial school versions from your childhood (although those are having a trendy renaissance). Fall's variations on the pleat motif run the gamut—from asymmetrical accordion pleats at Sacai to knife-pleated hemlines at Versace. And while a pleated mini may be the preferred choice for tennis and other warm-weather activities, we think a pleated midi-style skirt will fare better in the colder seasons. Ahead, seven skirt options to shop right now.
1
The 80s Polka Dot Pleated Skirt
The Marc Jacobs
saksfifthavenue.com
$295.00
Sport this black and white polka dot skirt with a striped sweater for a print-on-print combo that works. For those who prefer a more subdued look, tuck in a crisp white button-down and slip on your favorite pair of loafers.
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2
Striped Pleated Skirt
Kate Spade New York
saksfifthavenue.com
$328.00
Pair this striped skirt with the matching top and a fitted blazer on weekdays. Throw on a tee and sneakers for your weekend errands circuit.
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3
Pleated Wool Twill Skirt
Comme des Garçons
net-a-porter.com
$670.00
$402.00 (40% off)
Fashioned after vintage kilts, this tartan check skirt will pair perfectly with your cozy fisherman knit sweaters.
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4
Pleated Chiffon Skirt
Michael Michael Kors
net-a-porter.com
This pleated midi skirt is lightweight for warmer fall days. Pair it with a woolly tight and it'll serve up enough warmth to carry you through winter.
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5
Georgia Silk Blend Skirt
RIXO
net-a-porter.com
$93.00
Brighten up your dark cold wardrobe with this cheery floral print skirt. The side slit will show off your favorite pair of knee-high leather boots.
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6
Pleated Midi Skirt
See By Chloé
net-a-porter.com
$475.00
This '70s-inspired skirt can easily transition from day to night wear. For daytime: pair it with a ballet flat and a fitted knit. At night: throw on a long-sleeve bodysuit and a heeled ankle boot.
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7
Pleated Skirt
Coming in at under $40, you'll have this versatile button-down skirt on frequent rotation this season.
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