Sometimes the style set does a volte-face, the fashion equivalent of a policy change that seems so out of character that it can seem like they’re batting for the opposition. The latest 180 to sweep the fashion pack? The mini is out, replaced by something altogether more modest: pleated skirts. Yes, you’ve finally got the green light to give your legs (or at least thighs) a break for the foreseeable.
The ‘It’ skirt now falls just below the knee or to mid-calf, making it the perfect candidate if you’re looking to ditch tights as soon as possible. For SS25, pleated midis appeared across all the major runways, approved by Miuccia Prada at Miu Miu, where schoolgirl-inspired versions were styled with leg warmers, structured grey blazers, gold Y2K-esque belts, and pointed kitten heels.
Meanwhile, Bottega Veneta took a more unconventional route, styling pleated midis over matching striped trousers and pairing them with classic white button down shirts on the Milan runway. Tommy Hilfiger, on the other hand, brought things back to basics with a classically nautical take - the brand’s summer-ready collection featured a navy pleated midi skirt, styled with rain jackets, crisp white shirts, and zigzag-motif mules.
Street stylers have also embraced the pleated skirt look in full force, opting for a variety of cuts and finishes, including drawstring waist styles in soft neutrals like beige, offering a flattering, easy breezy fit. It’s no surprise then that the high street has jumped on the pleated bandwagon, led by none other than H&M. The brand’s Pleated Maxi Skirt sits low on the hips and swishes at the ankle, cut from a classically chic pleated crêpe weave. Unsurprisingly, the fashion crowd has fallen hard for it.
H&Mwww2.hm.com
H&M's pleated maxi is the perfect addition to any skirt rotation, thanks to its crisp cream colour way making it incredibly versatile. Alternatively, shop it in the purple colour way for a splash of colour.
When it comes to styling, follow the lead of the fashion set and pair the pleated skirt with cropped tank tops, boxy tees and your favourite sneakers for a chic, off-duty look. For formal occasions, wear with a black longline waist coat (we've searched dutifully for the best of the best) and either kitten heels or black ballet flats for that simply classic evening look.
Luckily, if H&M's iteration isn't quite your cup of tea, the sartorial market boasts plenty of other pleated skirts in true their swishy form. From Zara to COS, we've found the best of the best that you can shop below, starting from £29.99.
SHOP: The Best Pleated Skirts
Alignealigne.co
When it comes to pleated skirts, but longer styles are the ideal. Aligne's is designed to sit on the hips so the brand recommends that you size down if you'd rather wear it on your waist.
www.zara.com
Zara has plenty of pleated skirts, but this swishy blue version is a fun way to take on the trend. Because it cuts off at ankle length, I'd give yourself a boost in the height department with a pair of chic kitten heels.
ME+EMwww.meandem.com
ME+EM's cotton pleated skirt comes with a dropped waist and paper bag detailing, making it one of the most elegant styles we've seen. Don't fancy the brown? Shop the navy blue iteration instead.
Massimo Duttiwww.massimodutti.com
Pair this box pleat skirt with boxy white tees and retro trainers for the ultimate model off-duty look.
www.cos.com
Looking for a pop of colour? We suggest you consider this pleated maxi from Cos, that'll look great on anyone paired with neutral colour ways.
Main Image Credit: @courtneytoliver, @SuneetMaan and @Jandel’scloset via LTK and Instagram
Natalie Hammond is Grazia’s Senior Fashion News Editor. She loves winter, hates summer and can often be found writing about the weather (and what on earth to wear).
Emma Richardson is a fashion commerce writer for Grazia. She covers shopping, lifestyle, celebs and anything trending.