No fabric fold quite embodies the sophistication and classic aesthetic that a pleat does. And whilst a few years ago I would've considered pleats "dated" and done (who remembers the Zara satin pleated skirts from the early '00s?), it's true that pleated skirts are back with a force, confidently merging themselves with some of spring/summer 2025's biggest trends, and this time around, I think they're here to stay.
If you're hesitant, that's perfectly understandable. I was, too. But I promise you can finally forget the school uniform connotations or the snapshots you've seen of slightly frumpier renditions from the 1920s. Instead, 2025's pleated skirts are much chicer and timeless enough to serve as a reliable staple in your capsule from spring and long into winter (just add tights). The modern-day pleated skirt is elegant, graceful and very stylish.
When it comes to choosing a pleated skirt for the year ahead, you can opt for a sleek and streamlined midi, which makes an ideal pairing with jumpers, waistcoats and pretty much every top in between. Or you can embrace a twist on the academia look—one that's much more modern—with the help of a pleated miniskirt.
The pleats themselves also come in so many different varieties. If you don't quite fancy the sharp and dramatic lines of a classic pleated skirt, there are softer, more voluminous pleats that offer texture without the severity. Then there are larger, block-style pleats to contrast against the more accordion-esque styles out there. Truthfully, there's a pleated skirt pattern and silhouette for everyone.
Aside from how they look, pleated skirts are also versatile—if you look past the first several that pop up in your search, you'll find one that fits nearly any aesthetic, whether you're drawn to minimalist styles, preppy looks or more flowy, relaxed outfits. As someone who almost exclusively wears trousers, I find pleated skirts provide the same kind of structure I crave that many other skirts lack.
WWW Editors in pleated skirts:
To ensure you start off on the right foot, I've gathered up the 15 best pleated skirts out there for you to shop this season and incorporate into your outfit builds in your own way.
Best Pleated Skirts, Listed:
Best Pleated Skirt with Size Range: M&S Textured Pleated Midi Slip Skirt (£40)
Best Pleated Skirt with Colour Offerings: Reformation Nancy Skirt (£198)
Best Mini Pleated Skirt: & Other Stories Pleated Herringbone Mini Skirt (£87)
Best Maxi Pleated Skirt: Reformation Zinnia Low Waist Skirt (£178)
Best Midi Pleated Skirt: ZARA Suede-Effect Midi Skirt With Belt (£46)
Best Designer Pleated Skirt: Toteme Wool Silk Twinflower Skirt Macadamia (£530)
Best High-Street Pleated Skirt: Mango Flared Skirt With Pleated Detail (£50)
Shop the Best Pleated Skirts:
Meet the silhouette that completely redefined pleated skirts for me. It's cool and edgy without losing the timelessness of its predecessors.
A classic pleated silhouette in one of the biggest colour trends right now. Though at this rate, I'd argue brown is sticking around for good.
A gorgeous hue for spring.
The slit and asymmetrical cut make this the perfect contemporary statement piece.
If you're looking for a classic pleated mini, this is it.
The beige colour and pleating make this skirt look designer.
I love.
Made of cotton, this skirt is going on every warm-weather holiday with me this year.
A wool blend makes it possible to wear this style of skirt in chillier weather. I've screenshotted this entire outfit.
Buttons and large pleats give this a modernised academia aesthetic.
Unsurprisingly, this Toteme version keeps running out of stock everywhere.
The asymmetrical cut, belt and denim fabric are responsible for making this an instant addition to my wish list.
The belt detail really gives this skirt a step up over others in similar shapes.
You'll stay cool and look ultra chic in this.
Yes, this is a dress, but I couldn't complete the list without showing you this ensemble. The sweatshirt top and pleated skirt make it the epitome of effortless style.
A cute blue number.
This will serve me so well now that wedding season is nearly here.
A few of my friends have this skirts and they love it.
Pair it with a white tee to balance out the floral print.
Tennis-core anyone?
This went straight in my basket.
Trust Zimmermann to make a plated skirt that ticks all the boxes.
Just add some Mary Jane flats and an oversized shirt and you're good to go.
The belt is just the icing on top.
What is the best pleated skirt for you?
Start with determining the specific style of pleat you like, whether it's large and maximal, small and condensed or something in between. Then, consider what skirt lengths you typically wear—a pleated mini might not be the best option if you usually reach for a maxi. Consider the tops and shoes already in your wardrobe too. This will help you pick a texture, colour and cut that won't stand out in the wrong way from the clothes you usually gravitate towards.
