Pleated pants: Choose the right fit for your body shape, wear with fitted tops, use minimal jewellery

Are you curious about pleated pants but haven’t had the courage so far to wear them? Pleated pants can be a versatile addition to your wardrobe and can be worn to work, for formal evenings or even casually with sneakers and a fitted denim jacket.

Choose a fit and pleat style that best complements your body, wear them with fitted tops to create a balance, and wear minimal accessories for a chic touch.

Pleated pants go well with heels that will elongate your legs, sneakers for a casual look or even oxfords for a sleek and professional look.

Here’s a guide on how to wear pleated pants and look effortlessly stylish.

• Find the right fit

Fit is crucial when it comes to pleated pants. Look for a pair that sits comfortably on your waist without it being too tight or too loose around the hips and thighs. Pleats add volume, so find a tailored fit for a sleek and polished look. Try to avoid excessive fabric bunching around the waist to keep the silhouette flattering.

Tip: For a modern look, go for a slightly high-waisted style that accentuates your waistline and elongates your legs.

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• Choose a pleat that flatters your body shape

Pleats come in different types—single pleats, double pleats, or inverted pleats. Each type has a different effect:

• Single pleats add subtle volume and are great for a sleek, minimal look.
• Double pleats create a more classic, relaxed feel with extra room around the hips and thighs.
• Inverted pleats add a unique touch and create a sharper look.
• Choose the pleat style that complements your body shape and desired look.

• Pair with fitted tops

Since pleated pants add volume around the waist and hips, pairing them with a fitted top creates balance and keeps the outfit looking polished. Tuck in your top or go for a cropped style to accentuate your waistline. Slim-fit turtlenecks and fitted tees work well with pleated pants for a refined look.

Tip: Experiment with bodysuits or fitted knits for a smooth, streamlined silhouette that complements the volume of pleated pants.

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• Play with layering

Layering is an effective way to add depth and texture to pleated pants outfits. You can layer a cropped blazer or a structured jacket to create a refined look, especially for work or formal events. For a more relaxed vibe, try layering with an oversized sweater or a cardigan.

• Style idea: Pair pleated pants with a tucked-in fitted top and a cropped denim or leather jacket for an easy-going, balanced look.

• Accessorise to enhance your style

Accessories can elevate pleated pants by adding a touch of personal flair:

• Belts: Use a belt to accentuate your waist, especially with high-waisted pleated pants. Choose a sleek leather belt for a formal look or a woven or statement belt for a casual, bohemian vibe.

• Jewellery: Add minimalistic jewellery, such as a pendant necklace or small hoop earrings, for a chic touch without overwhelming the look.

• Bags: Choose a structured handbag or a crossbody bag to keep the outfit balanced and polished.

• Pick the right shoes

Your choice of footwear can greatly impact the overall style of pleated pants:

• Heels: Pointed-toe pumps or heeled sandals add height and elongate the legs, giving a sophisticated look.

• Sneakers: White sneakers or sleek slip-ons create a casual, modern vibe that works well for day-to-day wear.

• Loafers or oxfords: For a chic, polished look, pair pleated pants with loafers or oxfords. You can wear this combination for business-casual settings.

• Experiment with colours and patterns

Pleated pants come in a wide range of colours and patterns:

• Neutral colours: For a classic, versatile style, opt for neutral tones like black, grey, beige, or navy.

• Bold colours: Add personality to your outfit with bright colours, such as emerald green, mustard yellow, or burgundy. Pair with simple tops to let the pants stand out.

• Patterns: Plaid, pinstripe, or checkered pleated pants add a statement-making edge to your outfit. Keep the rest of the outfit simple to avoid clashing.

• Wear them at different occasions

Pleated pants can be styled to suit different occasions:

• Casual outings: Wear pleated pants with a fitted tee or a cropped top and sneakers for a relaxed, stylish look

• Workwear: Pair pleated pants with a button-up shirt or blouse, a belt, and loafers or low heels for a professional look that’s comfortable and polished.

• Evening wear: Choose pleated pants in a luxurious fabric, like satin or velvet, and pair them with a chic top, statement jewellery, and heeled sandals or pumps for an elegant evening look.

Pleated pants are a versatile addition to any wardrobe, offering options for both casual and formal looks. Experiment with different styles, colours, and textures to make this timeless piece your own.