A pleated skirt is one of those wardrobe staples that never really goes out of style. It’s polished enough for the office, comfortable to wear throughout the day, and surprisingly versatile. Whether you pair it with a vest, cardigan, blazer, or a simple knit top, it’s easy to create a variety of professional outfits with just one skirt.
Affiliate links are included in this post.
For today’s post, I’m styling Aritzia’s Twirl Skirt four different ways for work. It’s beautifully made, fully lined, and drapes really well without adding too much volume to a petite frame. I do find it runs small, so I recommend sizing up. To note, my skirt is a few years old and appears a little bit darker than the skirt that is currently available.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, I’ve also linked a similar pleated skirt from Amazon that creates a very similar look for less.
4 Work Outfit Ideas for Petites with a Pleated Skirt
My Sizing: I’m 4’10”, and my bust, waist, and hip measurements are 32″, 24″, and 36″. My inseam is 25″ (the measurement from the inside of my leg to my ankle bone). The clothes shown are unaltered and show how they fit me right from the store. I list my sizing beside each item to help you compare when shopping online. When referencing my true size, that is often the smallest option available at a brand or petite xxs/00/24. I wear a size 5 shoe.
Outfit 1: Pleated Skirt with a Vest
For the first outfit, I paired the Twirl Skirt with Aritzia’s Regal Vest in navy and finished the look with low heels.
The Regal Vest runs small, so I sized up to a 0 for a more comfortable fit. I love the proportions of this vest on a petite frame. The slightly cropped length pairs beautifully with the high-waisted skirt and creates a polished, tailored look without needing a blazer.
This is an easy outfit for the office that feels modern while still being timeless.
Skirt XS in dark night navy | Skirt Option | Vest 0 | Shoes | Tote
Outfit 2: Pleated Skirt with a Cardigan
For the second outfit, I tucked in a cardigan in a tonal shade of blue and finished the look with a neck scarf and Sam Edelman flats.
Using different shades of the same color creates a soft, monochromatic look that feels elegant without being overly formal. The tucked-in cardigan defines the waist, while the neck scarf adds a classic finishing touch. You could also leave the cardigan untucked and leave the buttons undone to the waist for definition. To note, the cardigan is sheer, I have layered it over a dark camisole.
Cardigan Petite XXS | Skirt XS in dark night navy | Skirt Option | Scarf | Shoes | Tote
Outfit 3: Pleated Skirt with a Coordinating Blazer
For the third outfit, I paired the skirt with a taupe top and a coordinating blazer.
Neutral separates are always a great investment because they can be mixed and matched throughout your wardrobe. The blazer adds structure, while the soft taupe palette keeps the outfit feeling light and sophisticated for summer.
Blazer Petite 00 | Top XXS in pumice | Skirt XS in dark night navy | Skirt Option | Shoes | Tote
Outfit 4: Pleated Skirt with an Olive Flutter Sleeve Top
For the final outfit, I tucked in a soft olive flutter sleeve top from Abercrombie.
This top is double lined, so it isn’t sheer, and the slim fit makes it perfect for tucking into skirts and trousers. I’m wearing my usual XXS, and it fits true to size. The flutter sleeves add just enough detail while keeping the outfit simple.
Top XXS | Skirt XS in dark night navy | Skirt Option | Shoes | Tote
Final Thoughts
A pleated skirt is a versatile piece you can add to a work wardrobe. Whether you style it with a tailored vest, a lightweight cardigan, a blazer, or a simple knit top, it’s a piece that works across seasons and can easily be dressed up or down depending on your accessories.
For more ideas with a pleated skirt, see how I styled one in this capsule wardrobe.
