This past Saturday was my hubbie and my wedding monthversary and we thought it would be a fun to have a fun-packed budget-friendly date. We had free tickets from collecting Scene Points. So first, we headed to SilverCity Riverport Cinemas to watch the much anticipated Guardian of the Galaxy Vol. 2 . We loved the first one and couldn't wait to watch the second one! It was very enjoyable as it was humor, drama, and action all in one! Just like the first one, the soundtrack was pretty awesome. Not going to spoil it for those who'd like to see it but it is definitely a must-see. Then, we had a nice relaxing afternoon on Sunday at the Fairmont Airport Vancouver enjoying their signature afternoon tea. Thanks to Groupon Vancouver, it was at a much discounted price. Don't you just love free and discounted stuff? This afternoon tea never disappoints! I've been there a few times now. The menu is a little different every time and it's always soooo good. I can go there every day. We had a table by the window and a gorgeous view of the airport ramp with beautiful blue skies and sunshine as the background. Although the runway was a bit far, we were able to see planes taking off and landing right from our seats. It was the perfect day for plane glazing while sipping quality tea and house-made sandwiches and pastries. It makes me want to go back there just thinking about it!

The hubbie wants to dress casual and comfortably for the day. Grr... I was half-waiting to dress up for a date! Although I went with the flow, I wasn't going to let go of dolling up easily! I decided to dress down a pleated midi velvet skirt. I styled it with a cute cropped graphic tee and a denim vest. The casual top and vest balanced out the dressiness of the pleated skirt making it an easy and effortless yet stylish outfit for the day.

From skinny knife pleats to wide paneled pleats, many find it intimidating to wear pleated skirts as they are often considered "high-fashion", mature, maybe even old-fashion. They used to only live among the preppy school girls. Please read on to see my opinion how to find a pleated skirt that suits you best!

1. Highlight the waist

I believe the key to streamline a pleated skirt is to show off your waist. Pair your pleats with a cropped top or have it tucked in. This will allow you to achieve the most slimming look. Loose long tops can make you look baggy and shapeless.

2. Pick the flattering pleat

The folds of knife pleats are all pressed to one direction. This style minimizes the volume of the skirt. Best suited for those with larger hips and bums.

Big belly? Post-baby belly? *ahem* Try stitched down pleats. The stitched part of the skirt lay flat against your tummy and minimize the volume in that area and then flares on the bottom.

Accordion pleats are great to show off your hourglass-shaped body with fuller volume.

3. The texture

Nowadays, pleated skirts can be made in all sorts of textiles to create very different looks.

Soft, flowy, silky fabrics are light and airy and won't add bulk to your hips. They are very feminine and great for Spring and Summer.

For an edgy rock look, go for leather, metallic or silky shiny fabrics! They are eye-catching and fashion-forward. You will be the center of the attention with these chic babies! 

Do you pleated skirts? How do you style them? Let me know in the comments below! Till next time!

Pleated skirt: Zara - Similar here

Top: AliExpress - ABC2015 - Here

Vest: Urban Planet - Similar here

Shoes: Valentino - Here

Bag: Jessica Simpson - Similar here and here

Sunglasses: Armani Exchange - Similar here

Bangle: Pandora - Here