Issey Miyake officially launched his Pleats Please line in Spring Summer 1994, a collection of plissé (or pleated) fabrics cut into every which way. 27 years later, the textile feels as fresh as ever. In fact, the lightweight, loose-fitting, wrinkle-proof fabric was used in a handful of Spring Summer 21 collections, most notably in Versace’s sea-centric show in the form of bouncy tube dresses and elaborately printed tops. It also made more minimalist appearances at It brands like Dion Lee and Nanushka. The season showcased many interesting textures, creases, and crafty fabrics, plissé included, in a trend dubbed “Surface Interest” by some of the most noted fashion voices.
This summer, as the temperatures soar up, many of us are looking not to compromise on style or indeed dressing up again (now we are back out and about) while keeping comfortable. And with this in mind, what better time to look to the runway for inspiration and consider an outfit that balances function and fashion with a textile that does this so well – micro pleats! For example, the Leem SS21 plissé dresses perfectly offer elegant options (without the runway price tags!) and provide an almost soft avant-garde feel to a look – and the best part is they don’t sacrifice comfort in the heat. Think luxurious leisurewear to a whole new level! And don’t forget it is summer so the styles are found in lively creative narrations in shades of white, glistening gold, fresh aqua, cobalt blue, jet black paired with pops of vibrant hues such as warm yellow, orange and teal.
