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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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.
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