Pleats Please! Shop 10 Of The Prettiest Pieces

It feels like yesterday but it’s been 22 years since Japanese designer Issey Miyake worked his sartorial magic and introduced the world to the wonders of the pleat. With his brand ‘Pleats Please’, Miyake changed the garment game forever as he gave us fuss-free (AKA iron-free) fashion.

Sourcing inspiration from a commission by the Frankfurt Ballet, Miyake created micro pleats that were malleable yet structured. And this very technique went on to inspire Altuzarra and Proenza Schouler for Spring 2016.

And with the resurgence of our other nineties go-to’s, i.e. the choker and the slip dress, what better than to welcome back the greatest smart-casual sartorial tool there ever was? Pleats.

The pretty (and equally clever) cut is permeating our high street predominantly in the form of the culotte - see Topshop, Zara and H&M as the major culprits.

You can also purchase pleats in the shape of slip dresses, skirts and cold-shoulder tops with the sartorial guidance of & Other Stories, Weekday and Mango.

Pleated Skirts

The pleated skirt is an oldie but sartorial goldie as it can be worked into an infinite number of looks. Pair with a pussy bow blouse or cold-shoulder top for day to night transition. Or add a simple tee and trainers for a paired back look.

Pleated Culottes

The awkward length is back and undoubtedly cooler than ever. Bag yourself a pair of silky, pleated culottes and pair with a tie-knot shirt and Gucci-esque loafers.

Pleated Tops

Channel the cold-shoulder trend, coveted by none other than the Duchess of Cambridge, in a subtle pleat. Or opt for a pleated turtleneck designed by the genius himself, Issey Miyake. Simply pair with tailored trousers and backless loafers.

Shop the summer perennial in the gallery below for pleats that would make Issey Miyake proud:

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