In fashion, plissé refers to fabric set into permanent pleats that create structure, volume and fluid movement. Whether in skirts, trousers, dresses or blouses, pleated garments move with the body and bring texture to an outfit without adding weight. Most commonly seen in midi lengths, pleated pieces transition easily between office wear, everyday dressing and more formal occasions.

Pleated fabrics appear in silk, satin, viscose and modern technical fibres, each offering a different drape and finish. The technique itself has ancient roots. Pleating was present in Egyptian dress, and centuries later it was refined by Spanish designer Mariano Fortuny, who made Venice his home. Fortuny developed and patented a process for creating delicate, wavy pleats in silk. His Delphos gown, inspired by ancient Greece, remains one of the most recognisable examples of pleated elegance.

The influence of Fortuny’s work resurfaced in the designs of Japanese innovators such as Issey Miyake and Yohji Yamamoto in the 1980s, whose sculptural garments reintroduced pleating as a modern design language.

How to Style Pleated Skirts and Trousers

Because pleats naturally create movement and volume, they pair best with more fitted or tailored tops. Accessories should remain minimal so the pleated garment can remain the focal point of the outfit.

Styling Ideas

Leisure Look
A colourful pleated skirt or trouser worn with a simple white T-shirt or denim shirt creates balance. In colder months, a loose wool sweater works well. White trainers or ankle boots complete the look.

Smart Casual (Colour Blocking)
Confident colour combinations such as pink with red or blue with green bring personality. Simple accessories prevent the look from becoming overly busy. Colour blocking continues to feature strongly in 2026 styling.

Office Look (Tonal)
A beige pleated skirt with a white dress shirt and an oversized 1980s-style blazer forms an easy office uniform. Beige pumps or slingbacks and a structured bag maintain the clean line.

Elegant Look (All Black)
A black pleated skirt with a lace blouse offers an evening option. Metallic or colourful accessories introduce contrast without distracting from the silhouette.

Festive Look
For occasions such as weddings, a black pleated skirt paired with a gold silk blouse and a slim belt creates a refined shape. Jewelled sandals and a small pochette add a celebratory touch.

Practical Tips

• Tuck tops into skirts or trousers to define the waist.
• In warmer weather, sleeveless or off-the-shoulder tops create a lighter Italian feel.
• Square, almond or pointed shoes enhance the line of the outfit.
• Matching shoe colour to the pleated garment lengthens the silhouette.

Pleated clothing remains popular because it flatters many body shapes, travels well without creasing and adapts easily across seasons. It combines ease, elegance and freedom of movement in a single garment.