So you are a lover of all things vintage and can’t do without your lacy blouses and bows? Well sure enough, you love your frills and pleats just as much as we do! On that note, let’s get to know our beloved pleats and its many kinds.
To reduce the term to its basic, pleats are fabric folds that are made by folding the fabric into itself. There are a few kinds of pleats that depend on the kinds of folds; pressed and rounded to name a few. Both functional and decorative, they come in these many different types of pleats.
- Accordion Pleats
- Box pleats
- Knife pleats
- Honeycomb pleats
- Organ pleats
Accordion Pleats
Accordion pleats are the narrow most folds of a garment that is usually made out of lightweight fabrics. This utmost feminine texture is best suited for bottoms and skirts in all possible lengths.
How to wear theseThe accordion pleats are versatile when it comes to styling. Depending on how they are worn, in a long maxi dress, a long skirt or a short one; they suit both casual and classy looks. For a more formal do wear a long maxi skirt and settle for a shorter one for a more casual outing.
Box pleats
Box pleats have a ratio of 3 to 1 which is basically knife pleats done back to back. These pleats have a slightly bulky look and stem straight from the waist but if done right and made in the right fabric, they can make for a super cute chic look.
How to wear theseBox pleats might remind you of your tunic from the school uniform but it’s those very box pleats that make super cute urban skirts come to life. Wear these pleats in short skirts, teamed with a top in solid colours for a smart casual look.
Knife pleats
Knife pleats is the most sophisticated of pleating techniques. It is the pleat that forms a smooth line and is pressed and pointed in one direction. It is a pleat made in the 3:1 ratio which means that the pleat is 3 inches of fabric gathered into an inch of a pleat. Neatness!
How to wear theseKnife pleats are best worn in knee length skirts in the many patterns available. Sophisticated to the T, knife pleats when worn with vintage bow and lace blouses make for a classy style statement.
Honeycomb pleats
Honeycomb are the narrow and rolled up pleats that usually work as a foundation for smocking. And while these look way too exotic when used in upholstery they also make a nice contribution, in parts, to designer ensembles and outfits.
How to wear theseHoneycomb pleats are so complex looking and yet they make for such clean and chic designs, they can glam up an outfit two folds. Also these look just as nice when used in upholstery.
Organ pleats
These pleats are called what they are called because they resemble the pipes. Pressed into creases on either sides at the beginning these pleats are basically parallel rows of soft round pleats towards the end.
How to wear theseOrgan pleats are can be incorporated in skirts but look better in gowns. With organ pleats falling beautifully down your waist you can use these for an outfit you want to wear for an occasion.
