Number one question of the season? What do I wear to all my holiday parties? Number two question of the season? How do I do my makeup? Today I’ll answer number one (it’s an easy one) and over the next week or so, we’ll get to number two!

The answer is: a metallic pleated skirt is absolutely the way to go. It’s extremely versatile and works so well on all women and all body types – from those with classic style, all the way across the spectrum to those with adventurous style.

BODY BENEFIT

One other benefit? It’s forgiving on your body. I don’t know about you but I always put on a little weight during the holidays. It sucks but it’s a reality – there are so many sweets and drinks with added calories that I can’t resist. And with all the traveling and parties and to-dos, I’ve struggled to prioritize exercising and eating well. This skirt hides the extra width I take on in my thighs and lower belly (thanks genetics!), so I maintain my confidence when I wear it.

WAYS TO WEAR IT

• For the classic dresser: Pair a silver, gold or pewter pleat with a crisp white button down shirt or a neutral and form-fitting turtleneck sweater. Tuck it in with a wide belt and pair with pointy-toed pumps. Add statement earrings to make it festive. I love the slit on this one under $50 from Nordstrom and the stretchy waistband on this one under $40 from JC Penny!
• For the woman on a budget: Choose a neutral color, like this black one with a sheen (only $50 from Macy’s) that you can wear with a bright red, deep green or silver top to your holiday parties. Then, pair it with a cardi and shell for work. You’ll get multiple wears out of this piece all year round.
• For the adventurous dresser (me, most of the time): Go all out! I paired my shiny blue pleated midi with a faux fur vest and one of this season’s ‘it’ shoes, the white bootie (love this trend so much).

WHERE TO BUY IT

Given the time of year, you are highly likely to find a great sale on pleated midi skirts, and they are all over the racks at all the stores I like. Try Macy’s, Anthropologie, Target and Nordstrom for starters. My top choices, including the one I’m wearing here that I got on sale at Anthropologie for 40% off two weeks ago are below in clickable picture format!

Skirt: Gemma via Anthropologie // Boots: Vince Camuto via Nordstrom // Vest: Old, Target // Earrings: Baublebar Tassels

And yes you are having déjà vu. I’ve written about how much I love midi skirts many times before, including pleated ones (this season’s pleats are much thinner than prior seasons, though). I just love them beyond words because they keep you covered, ooze femininity and can translate from work to play and casual to fancy so easily – a must for holiday dressing. Such a great wardrobe staple!