Versatile & Chic: Styling Pleated Separates for Everyday & Holidays
Whenever I’m thinking about adding something new to my wardrobe, I like to do a little “styling check”: mixing it with pieces I already own to see how well it plays with the rest of the lineup. A cohesive wardrobe, where most pieces can mix and match effortlessly, makes getting dressed (and packing lighter & smarter) so much simpler. I’m happy to report these pleated separates from Ruti passed the test with flying colors!
Not Just for the Holidays: Versatile Pleated Separates
After I shared this holiday hosting outfit, several of you asked to see how these pleated separates could be styled in other ways. So here are four easy outfits, ranging from cozy casual to relaxed-yet-elegant holiday looks.
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Sweater & Sneakers: Easy Everyday Style
Sweater | Necklace (Similar) | Pants* | Sneakers (Similar, Similar)
Easy elegance with a cashmere fisherman sweater: I’ve had this one from Jenni Kayne for a few years. Yes, it’s a splurge but the quality is excellent and mine’s held up very well. For a more budget-friendly option, check out this one from Quince.
My sizes: Sweater – Small, Pants – Medium.
*use code SUSAN15 for 15% off all full-priced items at Ruti. (Cannot be combined with other promotional offers.)
Denim & a Pleated Top: Elevated Casual
Top | Link Necklace (Similar) |
Charm Necklace | Bracelet* | Belt | Jeans | Shoes*
This pleated top is as easy to style as a tee, but has a more elevated look that can dress up or down. I’d wear this to meet a friend for lunch or casual dinner out.
The straight-leg jeans have a TON of stretch and are so comfortable. Available in several washes.
My sizes: Top – Small, Jeans – 28
*Today only, save 50% off 1 item (code CLASSIC) and 30% off everything else at Talbot’s!
Silk Shirt + Pleated Pants: Warm-Weather Holiday Look
Shirt (Similar) | Necklace* | Pants | Sandals (Similar)
A relaxed-but-elegant holiday outfit for warmer climates with a silk charmeuse shirt and kitten heel sandals. I purchased this Eileen Fisher classic collar silk shirt last year, and it’s back again in several colors.
My sizes: Shirt – Petite S, Pants – Medium
*50% off at J.Crew
Leather Jacket Layers: Polished Day-to-Night
Jacket | Top | Necklace (Similar) |
Belt | Jeans | Boots (Similar)
Here’s a day-to-evening look with my favorite leather jacket. (Similar style in budget-friendly faux leather.)
My boots are a couple of years old; here’s a similar style that’s waterproof!
My sizes: Jacket – 1/Small, Top – Small, Jeans – 28.
I hope this gives you some easy ideas for getting more mileage out of these pleated separates—or similar pieces you may already have in your wardrobe. Versatile foundations really do make getting dressed so much simpler, especially during the busy holiday season. If you have a favorite look from the bunch, or ideas for other ways to style them, I’d love to hear in the comments!
🎁 Looking for gift ideas? Check out some of my top picks here: Gift Guides
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Susan, I love the pleated separates on you. Could you suggest a budget friendly option? I’m an autumn and busty, even if the top isn’t flattering for me, I would still be interested in the pant. BTW, I ordered the Mango jacket from Nordstrom based on your earlier post—it’s great! Going to NYC soon and plan to wear it.
Ruti should thank you for this great post using these pieces. Talk about versatility with just two items! I think it’s about the most useful addition I could think of. Maybe adding the available skirt and you could go wedding outfit to anything else! I’m grabbing for a packable capsule wardrobe for cruise. Just which color…. Thank you Susan!
Love your elevated casual look Susan. It’s very me! We call that Jeans and a Nice Top down here! xx
Thanks very much, Julie!