BE A PRO WITH VINTAGE PLEATS

Retro-style folds are a hit this season. Take a fashion cue from these celebs to choose a style that suits you

All things vintage are back in fashion, including romantic pressed pleats, and the red carpet can vouch for this trend. From sliced, sexy accordion folds to full-bodied box pleats — the demure style has caught the fancy of Bollywood and Hollywood celebs alike. With everyone from Sonakshi Sinha, Dia Mirza and Sonam Kapoor to international stars at the recent Met Gala in New York sporting them, pleated dresses, skirts and even hemlines are making a comeback.

“I think pleats are huge this summer. They add an interesting textural element to simple silhouettes. They can be romantic when taken as micro, fine pleats and sporty when used as blocky, bold box pleats,” says designer Rajat K Tangri. Designer Anita Dongre says, “Pleated skirts instantly add feminine appeal to any look with a hint of retro, and the styles and lengths available ensure that they are flattering for most body types.” And how should one style retro-infused pleats? “A beautiful block-printed, pleated vintage skirt with a crisp white tucked-in shirt, along with a belt to further emphasise the waist is how I would style this trend. A pair of vintage Mary Janes would complete the look. A gold locket, pearl necklaces, or long layered necklaces can add sophistication to the ensemble,” adds Dongre.

If you are a denim fan, there’s something for you too. “Opt for a pleated A-line blouse in a solid colour and team it with skinny pants or jeans,” says designer Pria Kataaria Puri, adding, “A sheer pleated skirt in georgette can be teamed with a crop top for a fun look.” While the trend is hot right now, make sure you wear it right. “I love the trend but I believe that it’s a bit tricky. It looks best on full-length silhouettes and on smaller frames,” suggests designer Jenjum Gadi.

Here’s a glimpse of all the pleated beauties that we’ve spotted recently, as well as a guide to all the styles available.

Dita Von Teese in a Zac Posen creation with a rolled pleat mermaid hem

(From left) Jacqueline Fernandez, Dia Mirza and Sonam Kapoor Sonakshi Sinha acing the pleated look

KNIFE PLEATS As the name suggests, they are slim, sliced pleats. These are sometimes interchangeably called accordion pleats, but the latter is, in fact, a more fluid version. ACCORDION PLEATS These are crisp, closely cut pleats, and are the hottest...

FORTUNY PLEATS Named after their inventer, Spanish designer Mariano Fortuny, the fluid, fine pleats are being replicated everywhere now.

HONEYCOMB PLEATS These will remind you of the arts and craft class from school. These intricate pleats have honeycomb-shaped detailing and lend a lot of body to a garment. Alexander Mcqueen S/S’13

KICK PLEATS Usually a sporty version of traditional pleats, it will give your garment a divided look because of the double stitched, inverted style. Found primarily on the hem.

A Mandy Coon dress