ALL IN THE DETAILS: Pleated to Perfection

While your high school days may be over, you’re never too old to embrace the prep-school uniform look with a pleated skirt. I have always loved a classic varsity jacket and anything with a vintage school emblem, but this skirt is the perfect schoolgirl piece that can transition well into summer.

This Fashionista looks great in powder blue pleats. By adding the perfect amount of texture, pleats can transform a basic solid into an eye-catching garment. With crisp folds, a pleated skirt is a great way to elongate your legs and slim your figure; ultimately, creating an optical illusion.

In this look, the vertical stripes of the halter top provide a unique contrast to the lines of the pleats. The Fashionista balances this, however, by embracing a simplistic color palette so as to not overpower the overall ensemble. With understated accessories, the skirt remains the focal point of the look, garnering your attention almost immediately.

Don’t be afraid to incorporate a pleated skirt in an evening look. Just because this skirt looks great during the day, doesn’t mean it can’t look amazing at night, too. Simply trade in those flats for a pair of black pumps, throw on a leather jacket and you’ve taken the collegiate style to a whole new level.

How To: Trying a pleated skirt for the first time? Don’t freak out, just keep the rest of your ensemble simple and you cannot go wrong. Tuck in a fitted cotton shirt paired with your favorite summer sandals and you’ll be good to go.

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