From plaid to plain, denim to leather, the pleated mini has never looked better. We’ve got 20 of our favorites just in time for spring.
When it comes to pleated skirts, it’s not difficult to find a nostalgic inspiration – roaring 20s, 80s prep, Y2K retro, 2010s athleisure, etc. etc. With a timeless aesthetic, flattering silhouette and a fashion/function ease of wear, pleated minis never truly go out of style. So while longer pleated skirts rule for now – the pleated mini is poised for wardrobe domination come warmer times and climes.
Curious which pleated minis make the list for S/S 2025? Our editors have the tea…
SPORTY
Ah, the Zendaya effect (a la “Challengers”) – still riding high from a strong 2024 season of tennis inspired silhouettes, the sporty mini is perfectly poised to sail into the 2025 season as the main character in our pleated mini fits. Whether you choose to keep with the classic athletic vibe or upgrade to something more streetwear luxe, you’re sure to find your game, set and match with one of these beauties.
This iconic monochromatic version gets a glow up in super soft knit.
Windsor, Preppy Demure Pleated Striped Knit Skort $36.90
This handsome blue version comes with a built in compression band to keep your silhouette sleek.
Wilson, Midtown Tennis Skirt $78
Wear this heather gray with your favorite chunky knit for all the warm and fuzzy feels.
Windsor, Preppy Pleated Goals Mini Skirt $34.90
This punchy pink is the perfect add to your dopamine dressing.
Alexia Admor, Serena Pleated Tennis Skirt $179
Prefer a softer pleat for your sporty look? This high-rise version fits your vibe.
Windsor, Flirty Sport High-Rise Pleated Mini Skort $29.90
MAD FOR PLAID
Is there anything that says prep more than a pleated plaid mini? Play into the aesthetic with a chic button up sweater set, or go subversive with a leather jacket and boots.
We’re loving the vintage feel of this double-breasted button version.
Allegra K, Double Breasted A-Line Pleated Mini Vintage Plaid Skirt $43.99
Same for this blue-toned gray cutie.
Windsor, Edgy Prep Plaid Pleated Mini Skort $36.90
The neutral tones of this tartan will play nice with everything in your closet.
Windsor, So Poised Plaid Pleated Mini Skirt $12.97
(on Sale NOW from $29.90)
Rebecca Minkoff sells this charming chestnut mini as well as a matching blazer for a fantastic match set.
Rebecca Minkoff, Carson Pleated Mini Skort $125
(on Sale NOW from $178)
Finally, add a little asymmetrical flair to your mini game with this paneled plaid and corduroy mini.
Musium Div., Asymmetrical Paneled Skirt $127
LEATHER & LOOKS
Fashion loves a great juxtaposition, which is exactly what you get when you match a sweet, pleated skirt silhouette with an extra fabric like leather. The combination can take a potentially basic look and give it edgy sophistication.
This chic faux leather mini leaves no crumbs. The retro oversized belt waist and very on-trend chocolate brown is ready to elevate your sleek turtleneck and knee high boots.
Windsor, City Chic Faux Leather Pleated Mini Skirt $36.90
With its polished, toasted tan shade, this sporty-pleated style mini is the ideal companion to your silky, cream blouses.
Avantlook, Pleated Mini Skirt $35.99
(on Sale NOW from $190)
This moody mossy mini shows exactly why muddled and muted greens are seriously trending right now.
Tyler Böe, Perry Pleated Skirt $53.99
(on Sale NOW from $201)
The versatility of this accordion pleat skirt cannot be overstated. Consider it your official staple piece for spring.
Allegra K, Pleated Mini Skirt $35.99
Finally, this wider pleated mini is giving pure rocker with double side zipper pockets and jean style zip fly front. Ideal with a vintage rock tee and flat sneaks, it’s equally at home with a silk top and ballet flats for a polished Parisian vibe.
Windsor, Adorably Sleek Faux Leather Pleated Mini Skort $36.90
BUTTONS & BELTS
From Chloé to Miu Miu, brands are having fun giving this season’s pleated minis a little zhuzh – especially with tiny tailoring like buttons and belts. These value-add options lend a subtle polish to these pieces, increasing that fashion forward vibe.
Matching casual corduroy with a buttoned drop waist takes this burgundy beauty to the next level.
Windsor, Trendy Status Corduroy Pleated Drop Waist Mini Skort $13.97 (on Sale NOW from $34.90)
A single, skinny low-slung belt turns this mini from creamy to dreamy.
Windsor, Adorable Trendsetter Pleated Mini Skort $29.90
Of course if more is the merrier for you, this double-belted mini in trending chocolate should already be in your cart.
Windsor, Looking Cool Belted And Pleated Mini Skort $36.90
A foursome of tortoiseshell side buttons give this terrifically tailored mini even more to envy.
Windsor, Adorable Style Mid Rise Button Pleated Mini Skirt
$39.90
Just in case you were unaware, plummy reds aren’t retiring anytime soon. So if you’re still looking to infuse your wardrobe with this deep delectable color, may we suggest this marvelous knife pleat mini?
Windsor, Downtown Girl Belted Pleated Mini Skirt $39.90
Finally, if a wider belt feels more in line with your looks, this sexy slate gray mini will give you plenty of real estate.
Windsor, Keep It Casual Pleated Mini Skort $36.90
RETRO INSPO
As we mentioned in the beginning of our piece, pleated minis have a long and loving history that spans both timeless aesthetic to pop culture influence, and plenty of fashion revivals in between. With so many retro trends giving inspiration to our wardrobes this season, you can pretty much find a pleated mini to give you your nostalgia of choice.
Starting with this dynamo of a denim mini that coquettishly captures the 80s…like, totally.
Allegra K, Pleated Denim Mini Skirt $35.99
Grungy 90s more your scene? This camo cargo mini is a major score.
Windsor, Adventurous Babe Camo Pleated Cargo Mini Skirt $14.97 (on Sale from $36.90)
Of course if your obsession leans more office attire (as in, 90s corporate core), this sleek, pinstriped pleated mini is here to complete your office siren ensemble.
Rebecca Minkoff, Zoe Pleated Skort $142
(on Sale NOW from $178)
Unleash your inner Carrie Bradshaw with an early aughts inspired mini in terrific tulle.
Carolina Herrera, Pleated Tulle Mini Skirt $274
(on Sale NOW from $1,290)
Finally, if the 2010s is your yum, this metallic mini with its voluminous inverted pleats definitely ate down.
