A simple yet effective way to elevate a regular OOTD would be to incorporate some texture into it. This means playing with different kinds of materials and patterns to achieve a more dimensional effect. For those who need a little more convincing, one particular texture that’s easy to incorporate into an outfit while also being incredibly timeless is anything pleated!
These folds were popularized by the late Japanese-French designer Issey Miyake back in the ’80s. As an innovative designer, Issey created his signature pleated material by sandwiching fabric and paper in between each other and putting it through a heat press. Once they were taken out, it revealed a stunning folded pattern that expanded with the wearer's movements yet would still retain its shape afterward. Since then, pleats have evolved into several different iterations, from box pleats to accordion pleats, to knife pleats and even inverted pleats.
Whichever kind you choose, trust that this structured fabric will instantly add the right amount of flair to an outfit that you didn’t know it needed. In case you’re looking for style inspo with this material, we list down a slew of celebrity and influencer-approved OOTDs featuring pleats below. Keep on scrolling!
Celebrity and Influencer Outfits Featuring Pleats
1. Pleated Dress + Pointed Flats + Tote Bag + Sunglasses
Going out for a quick errand? Take style cues from Liz Uy who sported a monochrome palette. Her pleated white sheath dress became the perfect canvas to spruce up with dark accessories for a nice contrast. Slipping on a pair of pointed black slingback flats, the celebrity stylist then shaded her eyes with some square-shaped black sunnies. She toted around a boxy white Bally tote and finished her outfit off with a touch of dainty gold jewelry.
2. Pleated Dress + Platform Heels + Handbag
Heart Evangelista took her outfit to the next level by mixing and matching prints, color, and texture all in one OOTD! As seen here, the style maven’s vibrant red frock featured a full pleated skirt and a white polka dot pattern all throughout. With this, the 37-year-old paired her look with neutral-colored platforms and a hand-painted Carolina Herrera purse.
3. Pleated Maxi Dress + Shoulder Bag + Sunglasses
You can never go wrong with a flowy maxi dress during a summer holiday! As seen on Lovi Poe, her green frock made out of pleated fabric was the perfect laidback piece to pack on her trip to California. Aside from its loose cut, we also love its exposed back detail that further lets in some breeze.
4. Pleated Midi Skirt + Buttoned Shirt + Flats + Purse
Go twinning with your best friend in coordinated pleated OOTDs just like Vern and Verniece Enciso! The two sisters wore a head-to-toe neutral ensemble comprising of buttoned shirts, pleated midi skirts, and ballet flats on their South African jaunt. For a body shaping effect, you can either choose to add a belt just like what Vern did or tuck your shirt in as seen with Verniece. Finish it off with matching neutral-toned accessories and you’re ready for the day!
5. Pleated Skirt + Bralette + Arm Warmer + Chunky Sneakers + Sunglasses
If you’re trying to delve into the athleisure aesthetic, then do as Sarah Genove-Yu does and pair a pleated tennis skirt with a bralette and arm warmers to serve sporty vibes. To complete her off-court look, the influencer teamed it with chunky white sneakers, a silver tumbler, and black Prada sunglasses.
6. Pleated Shirt Dress + Gold Jewelry
For a simple yet classy look, a shirt dress just like Jinkee Pacquiao’s is a foolproof way to instantly look polished. The socialite’s raspberry-colored Dior frock features a button-down detail and accordion pleats which she chose to accessorize with a slew of delicate jewelry.
7. Pleated Midi Skirt + Graphic Tee + Blazer + Chunky Sneakers + Handbag
A work-appropriate ‘fit need not be boring! Case in point: Faye Balogo’s oversized blazer, graphic tee, and pleated midi skirt combo will pass any dress code while still managing to look as stylish as ever! While you can totally rock this look with heels, a comfier yet just as cute option is your favorite pair of white sneakers.
8. Pleated Midi Skirt + Crop Top + Headband + Handbag
Janeena Chan has a few tips on how to look brunch-ready with a pleated pieces! For one, choose a midi skirt in a flattering color and cut such as this coffee-colored one she’s wearing. Secondly, show a subtle bit of skin by opting for a classic white crop top. Lastly, accessorize with a chic handbag just like her pleated piece and add a headband for a preppy touch.
9. Crop Top + Midi Skirt + Strappy Sandals
Pro tip: Match the color of your top with your shoes for an effortless way to appear put-together. Don’t believe us? Just take it from Kara Gozali who flawlessly coordinated her white crop top and strappy sandals. As for her bottoms, she went with a pop of pink by way of her box pleated midi skirt.
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