Gap pleated skirt

Tummy-Smoothing
With flattering lines and delicate details, these reinvented classics are polished for work and comfortable for play.

Stitched-down pleats on this tweed skirt smooth the tummy, then flare out to add volume in the right places.

Gap, $64; Gap.com
Victoria's Secret Ombre skirt

On Trend
A delicate silk skirt illustrates three of this season's big color trends—yellow, gray, and ombré.

Victoria's Secret Catalogue, $78; VictoriasSecret.com
Ann Taylor cobalt blue skirt

Totally Effortless
Lined silk in vivid cobalt blue is half of an effortless party outfit (just add a sequined sweater).

Ann Taylor, $109; AnnTaylor.com
Lauren by Ralph Lauren satin skirt

Lightweight
Icy blue duchess satin goes perfectly with a cashmere twinset.

Lauren by Ralph Lauren, $199; select Macy's stores; 800-622-9748
Robert Rodriguez polka dot skirt

Beyond Basic Black
All the details—the intricate laser-cut floral hem, the built-in belt, the wide pleats—take this wool blend skirt well beyond basic black.

Robert Rodriguez, $341, Saks Fifth Avenue; 877-612-7257
Vera Wang skirt

Playful Polka Dots
Subdued polka dots and a paper bag waist come together in a fashionable A-line skirt.

Vera Wang Lavender Label, $395; 212-628-9898
Floral Teri Jon Sportswear skirt

Florals Are in for Fall
Florals are chic for winter; this one is paired with an animal print.

Teri Jon Sportswear by Rickie Freeman, $440, Nordstrom; 800-695-8000
Metallic Dolce and Gabbana skirt

Holiday Ready
Metallic but not ostentatious, this festive skirt has a sexy exposed zipper and a black ruffle in back.

D&G, $680; 800-979-3038 for stores
Moschino skirt

A Perfect Silhouette
Triple pleats make this rich, green, just-below-the-knee satin skirt cascade beautifully.

Moschino, $1,225; 212-843-8600