Dressing for autumn is no small feat. With the warm sunshine punctuating the frosty breeze, depending on whether you’re standing in or out of the shade can feel like you’re working with an entirely different climate. To layer or not to layer is a question I ponder every morning, and it feels like no matter which decision I make, I simply cannot get it right.
Katie Holmes, on the other hand, doesn’t seem to be facing the same problem. Stepping out in New York this weekend, Holmes wore a look that was perfectly primed to tackle the inconsistent weather. Styling a cosy knit with a closed-toe shoe, Holmes’s outfit was off to a practical start. Putting a stylish twist on her casual get-up, she then paired her easy autumn ensemble with the emerging skirt trend that’s got fashion people buzzing this season.
A model wears a pleated skirt on the Miu Miu spring/summer 2025 runway.
Stocked at Prada, Zara and more, the pleated skirt is the elevated silhouette that fashion brands are backing right now. Of course, this isn’t the first time they’ve been on our radar—about 6 or so years ago, the skirt scene was dominated by concertina-style pleated midis. Now, though, the trend has taken a decidedly pretty turn with thick box pleats; the sort that we usually see on collegiate uniforms.
Beyond Holmes and the pavements of New York, this version of the pleated skirt made recurring appearances across spring/summer 2025 runway shows in September and early October. Whilst Prada’s belted pleated skirt was a talking point amongst editors for weeks, the trend also appeared in a big way at its sister brand Miu Miu, as well as Burberry and Bottega Veneta last month. Guaranteed to continue its reign well in to spring next year, it’s no surprise that other brands have picked up on the piece this month.
A model wears a pleated skirt on the Prada spring/summer 2025 runway.
Spotted up and down the high street, as well as throughout designer brands, the chic skirt has been interpreted by a number of retailers this season. Inspired to shop the design that comes back Holmes’ stamp of approval, read on to discover our edit of the best pleated skirts to shop this autumn.
SHOP THE PLEATED SKIRT TREND:
Zara
Box Pleat Skort With Belt
This comes with a detachable belt, so you can style it with or without the accessory.