Tricky Trend: The Pleated Midi

The midi skirt is such a tricky trend – after all, we’ve always been told to avoid the mid-calf skirt length like the plague due to its stunting effect. But fashion loves something that only a skinny six-foot model can pull off with panache, so here we are sizing up the possibilities. On the plus side it’s pleasingly work-appropriate especially for summer (no wriggling and jiggling to stop your pencil skirt from riding up or fearing bending over in your mini) and if you stick to absolutely no longer than just an inch below the knee it’s not too foreshortening. Adding pleats to the equation though? Won’t that look a little school uniform? Two main rules for pulling this look off: firstly, heels only. Flats with with this will take you into matronly territory while a nice chunky platform or wedge is a winner (hate the pointy black heels paired with the peach skirt above). Secondly, this look is all about the waist so no skirts hovering around the hips, and tops tucked in. Light tanks and almost-sheer tees can make your outfit more casual. Choose a light fabric for the skirt (these from Whistles at the top and Mango at the bottom are gorgeously light and frothy) and make sure it’s a non-crease material as otherwise it’s just going to be a big mess.

I’m not sure this is a trend worth splashing out on, but if you’ve got the cash to flash and the look works for you, why not check out this covetable number or this one which hits up the colour blocking trend too!