Fold a sheet of paper into a fan and it suddenly catches the light in stripes. Pleats do exactly that to fabric. A single colour becomes a pattern of highlight and shadow that changes every time you move.
Three pleats, three moods
- Knife pleats: crisp and graphic, perfect for a midi skirt worn to work
- Sunray pleats: they fan out from the waist and swing beautifully when you walk
- Micro pleats: almost liquid, best in satin dresses for evening
The trick is balance. A pleated skirt has a lot of movement, so pair it with something calm and close-fitting on top: a fine knit, a fitted tee or a bodysuit.
Movement is the one thing a photograph of an outfit can never quite capture.
Afiato Studio
For trousers, look for a single front pleat. It adds room through the hip and a sharp line down the leg that makes flat shoes look intentional and heels look even longer.
