Fashion News

Pleated skirts and court shoes - the perfect match - 23/01/2009

With the first hint of sunshine this spring set to prompt the beginning of another trend for miniskirts, according to In Style, women may wish to take the remains of the winter weeks to step out in a more stylish version.

And girls may want to start hitting the gym now in time to tone up their legs, because the Guardian's Simon Chilvers has noted that 2009 is shaping up to be the year of the skirt.

"Designers and the high street are offering fresh spins on this wardrobe staple. A favourite way of stamping new season connotations on to a skirt at the moment is to add pleats. This can elevate a boring skirt to one that is quietly interesting," he explained.

And the classic skirt shape will be a safe purchase as it is highly versatile - looking great when paired with court shoes for a timeless look, patent platforms to add a little glamour to the office or black sequined shoes to make it the perfect evening outfit.

Pencil skirts with a hem that falls to the knee are the perfect answer for women who do not wish to show too much leg, although petite ladies should keep in mind that a hem that falls to their mid-calf will have the effect of making their legs appear shorter.

When picking up a pleated number, Mr Chilvers explained that there is still a variety of choice available, including horizontal and vertical pleats, or even those that are slashed.

And girls can also pick from a variety of fabrics this season - from silk to tweed - which can also be styled down for a day's shopping by teaming with thick black tights and pretty patent ballerina pumps for a modern edge.

Meanwhile, girls may also find themselves getting nautical before the winter is out, as stripes stay well and truly in vogue.

The Guardian's Imogen Fox has stated that stripes are sure to see a woman through any fashion crisis.

And again, a striped top can prove to be versatile; whether it be worn with skinny jeans of flares for an on-trend daytime look, or tucked into a plated pencil skirt and teamed with classy court shoes for drinks out.