A pleat is a type of fold formed by doubling fabric back upon itself and securing it in place. It is commonly used in clothing and upholstery to gather a wide piece of fabric to a narrower circumference. It is folded excess fabric that creates fullness.👗
Pleats are categorized as pressed, that is, ironed or otherwise heat-set into a sharp crease; or pleats could be unpressed, falling in soft rounded folds. There are many varieties, but the side and box pleats are the most common.
Pleats are used both as a design element and for functionality and ease of movement. Natural fiber fabrics lend themselves better to pleats than their synthetic counterparts. Fabrics such as cotton, wool or silk will hold pleats when pressed.