Fashion: A look that is as rich as creases

Published on 09/07/2012 12:00

Prepare to pour yourself into some pretty pleating this summer as the trend takes to the high street.

You can’t swing a maxi skirt at the minute without it being pleated, and the look isn’t going anywhere as autumn winter catwalks showed the trend being carried right through to next season.

Collections from Chloe, Prada and Rodarte felt like they were paying homage to designer Mariano Fortuny. The man famed for bringing fluid pleated fabrics into silk shift dresses inspired by Greek Goddesses in the early 1900s paved the way for the pleating we see today.

Classically, you want to go for light material in silk and chiffon. The key is movement and light to create a carefree feminine feel to your look.

One of the easiest ways to wear the trend is in a skirt. Floor-length hem lines add drama and grace to an outfit and instantly makes the item you are wearing appear expensive.

By keeping pleating in the bottom half of your body it gives the illusion of elongation, making the wearer appear longer and leaner.

Pair a calf-length skirt with classic wellies and slouchy knit and you are festival ready. Go for much looser pleating and you can pair it with a plain T-shirt, blazer and pumps for a relaxed, preppy look.

Be inspired by Kate Middleton by placing pleating and lace together for a regal and girlie feel. If you are missing your denim fix, add a cut-off studded waistcoat to floor-length skirts. There are a ton of tea dresses around crisply cut with pleating. Investing in one is a smart shout as you can make many looks from it.