Skip to main content

The history of pleats and couture

by Julie Goodwin, / Sunday October 28th 2018


Caroline structured gown with pleats

 

Pleats have a long history in fashion. The Egyptians wore pleats as a symbol of luxury, the Elizabethans wore pleats as a symbol of opulence, and now, a pleated Issey Miyake piece is a coveted treasure.

I love pleats, and I love the way they sit on the female form. Pleats are flattering, they skim curves, and they’re incredibly versatile. Pleats can turn a day dress into a stunning gown, they can transform a regular sleeve into a statement detail, and they can sharpen up an entire outfit.

As common as pleats may be in fashion right now, the art of pleating is not, and that’s why I wanted to work with one of Australia’s last pleating manufacturers on my 2018 MUSE collection.

 

Grace dress with pleats - Julie Goodwin Couture Melbourne couturier

 

Pleating is a slow and considered process, and when it’s done correctly by an experienced, passionate pleater, the results are nothing short of stunning. Pleats bought my ‘Grace Dress’ to life, balancing a structured button-up bodice with a fluid yet full-bodied linear skirt.

Besides creating perfect pleats, Specialty Pleaters is also a locally run business, supporting Melbourne’s independent designers and creators, and as one of them, I love my local industry.

The ‘Grace Dress’ can be made in a range of colours too, so if you’re looking for the perfect event dress, bridesmaid dress or formal dress, this is one piece worth investing in.

 

Grace dress with pleats - Julie Goodwin Couture Melbourne couturier


The beauty of bespoke: why investing in quality fashion is smart dressing


Erin Modaro interviews Julie Goodwin


A Julie Goodwin Couture shoot to define my everyday muses


I don’t do alterations, but they are central to my philosophy, and here’s a pile I did last week.


Julie Goodwin Couture features in ‘Sustainable Fashion Melbourne’


Jane Vandermeer and the art of holistic soulful styling