Long high-waisted pleated skirt in suiting fabric

A mid-length pleated skirt in fluid suiting fabric, a defined high waist and fullness that moves as you walk.

This skirt takes up the codes of the tailoring wardrobe, in a supple version. The waist is high, set on a waistband with loops, then the fullness releases in box pleats spread all the way round. The result: a clean silhouette above, very mobile below.

The fabric is a fluid, non-stretch suiting fabric, matte, with no shine. It falls straight rather than puffing out: the pleats stay readable standing, open as you walk, and close again when you stop. The length runs from 88 to 90 cm depending on the size, that is mid-calf to ankle according to your height.

The details

• Set-on waistband with belt loops, compatible with a fine belt.
• Box pleats all the way round, from the waist.
• Side openings of the pocket type at the sides.
• Free hem, discreet finish.

How to wear it

With a cropped or tucked-in top, to let the high waist play its part. During the week, with a white shirt and derby shoes. At the weekend, with a fine T-shirt and white trainers. In mid-season, add a trench or a slightly long blazer: the skirt keeps its movement underneath.

The two colourways, black and grey, fit effortlessly into a neutral wardrobe.

Key points

• High waistband with belt loops, which lengthens the leg
• Box pleats all the way round for clear fullness as you walk
• Matte suiting fabric, fluid drape with no puffing
• Side openings of the pocket type at the sides
• A mid-length that works with trainers as well as derbies
• Two neutrals, black and grey, easy to combine

Fabric and care

Composition: Fluid suiting fabric, non-stretch, matte look. The detailed composition is not communicated by the manufacturer: we prefer not to invent it. The fabric is stated to be antistatic, anti-pilling and little prone to creasing.

Care: Machine wash at 30 °C on a delicate programme, inside out, in a net bag to protect the pleats. No tumble dryer: heat relaxes the pleating. Dry hung by the waistband, with the pleats set by hand. Gentle ironing at low temperature, or steam from a distance. No bleach.

Size

Four sizes, flat measurements converted to garment circumference. S: waist 64 cm, hips 86 cm, length 88 cm. M: waist 68 cm, hips 90 cm, length 88 cm. L: waist 72 cm, hips 94 cm, length 89 cm. XL: waist 76 cm, hips 98 cm, length 90 cm. Tolerance of 1 to 3 cm. The fabric does not stretch: go first by your waist measurement, as the hips are amply freed by the fullness of the pleats. If you are between two sizes, take the size up. The length is designed for a height of around 1.65 m to 1.70 m: above that, the skirt rises towards the calf.

Good to know

• Such a full skirt — won't it make my silhouette wider? The fullness starts at the waist, not at the hips, and the fabric is matte and fluid rather than rigid. It falls straight instead of puffing out. The high waist stays defined and narrow, the volume starts below: it is the contrast that structures the silhouette.
• Will the pleats hold over time? The pleating is set on a synthetic suiting fabric, which keeps its shape memory well. The condition is the care: a delicate 30 °C wash in a net bag, dried hanging, no tumble dryer. On those terms, the pleats stay crisp.
• Is it too dressy for every day? The fabric comes from the tailoring wardrobe, but the cut is relaxed and the length stays easy. With a T-shirt and trainers, it is worn day to day. With a shirt and derbies, it goes to the office. It is the same skirt.