season to season: the pleated skirt

Transitioning from summer to fall? Live in a place where it's 80 degrees one day and 55 the next? (yes). Let's see how you can take this uber-pleated grey skirt with you from season to season...

FALL:

A loose ladylike blouse is perfect tucked into this skirt for the upcoming fall days and nights. It won't be warm enough to have bare arms, but it won't be cold enough for a coat either (we hope).

sheer 3/4-sleeved blouse from The Kooples in Paris, oxford wedges by Cynthia Vincent, bag by Stella McCartney, bracelet from F21, mixed metal knotted chain necklace from Free People.  

WINTER:

Chunky, cropped fair isle print angora sweaters perfectly compliment this a-line skirt. With a textured scarf around the neck, you won't be too cold. I always balance out a girly skirt with my Fiorentini and Baker's. Tights optional (unless you live in the midwest)! 

grayling sweater by Rag & Bone, raw-edged scarf by Rag & Bone, Fiorentini and Baker Eli boots, Yves Saint Laurent Easy Y Tote, and mixed metal chain bracelet by Giles & Brother. 

SPRING:

In the early spring it's usually too cold to go without an extra layer, but warm enough that you don't need a parka and gloves, so a leather jacket is necessary. Black leotards are not limited to ballerinas, and are an easy compliment to skirts and high-waisted pants. Without snow on the ground, leather ballet flats are a go, and with a layered mixed-metal necklace and a bucket bag, this look can be taken from day to night without any extra effort. 

leather jacket by Improvd, black leotard from American Apparel, ballet flats by Chanel, Alexander Wang Diego Bucket Bag, layered chain necklace from Intermix.

SUMMER:

Yay, its summer! No bulky layers allowed! The skirt still works because it is not made of wool.  A strappy camisole tucked into the skirt is fine and well, but a lovely silk blazer (conveniently deprived of sleeves) is a great additional piece without any weight or extra warmth.  A great statement belt always spikes up an outfit (especially jeans with a basic tee) and is always worth it.  Top it off with a sunhat to protect your face and accessorize with a lightweight bag and wooden clogs.

sleeveless silk blazer by Joie, camisole from F21, Gucci belt, wooden clogs from Paris, Rebecca Minkoff Perforated 3-Zip Rocker Bag, F21 sunhat.


I left the best part to the end: the skirt is ultra-inexpensive and from F21! Really research your pleated skirts before investing in one: sometimes you can find a cheap alternative that doesn't look the part. Regardless, you'll get enough wear out of this piece to make anything worth it. Here are some alternatives via shopbop.