What is Plissé Fabric? Plissé Dresses, Tops Sets We Love

Plissé fabric is often used to make dresses, jumpsuits and skirts – but what exactly is it? I heard a friend talking about the fabric a few years ago, and despite working in fashion, I didn’t know what she meant! Embarrassing, I know. But once I did some research, I realised exactly what the pretty fabric is – and in fact, it’s one of my favourites for holidays. Plissé has a crinkled appearance, which makes it perfect for packing as you don’t need to iron or steam it when you unpack it at your final destination. As someone who passionately hates ironing, this is music to my ears.

As with pretty much all fashion, whether it’s trends or techniques, Plissé has an interesting history. The pleated fabric originates from Ancient Egypt, when it was worn by the royals as a sign of wealth and power. As with pretty much everything, it was soon adopted by the West and British royals such as Queen Elizabeth were known to wear it.

For those that don’t know what plissé looks like or what it’s used for, read on. You’ll recognise it in no time. Below, you’ll also find ways to care for plissé, the difference between the fabric and seersucker, and what it’s used for, as well as a number of plissé pieces you can peruse and shop if you wish!

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Contents hide

1 What is plissé?

2 What kind of fabric is plissé?

3 What is the difference between seersucker and plissé?

4 What is plissé fabric used for?

5 How to care for Plissé

What is plissé?

Plissé is a cotton fabric that has been chemically treated to give it a puckered or crinkled appearance. It’s often woven with a striped pattern and can look similar to seersucker, so it’s easy to get the two confused. The puckers or crinkles you see are created through chemical treatment or a heat-setting process, which shrinks part of the fabric. The name Plissé derives from the French word for fold, which makes sense given its appearance. Plissé looks luxurious, so it’s often used to make beautiful skirts, dresses, tops and trousers that look expensive despite being pretty affordable.

What kind of fabric is plissé?

Plissé is a cotton fabric, but sometimes it can be made from other materials like cotton mixes, acetate and rayon.

What is the difference between seersucker and plissé?

Like plissé, seersucker is a puckered, cotton fabric. It’s often striped or chequered. It can look similar to Plissé, particularly when it’s woven with a striped pattern, but seeksucker’s texture comes from how the fabric has been woven, while Plissé’s is through its finish or how it’s been treated. When ironed, Plissé may be damaged but seersucker withstands the heat and is more complex.

What is plissé fabric used for?

Plissé is often used for lightweight clothing, such as dresses, skirts, blouses, jumpsuits and underwear. I’ve seen the fabric popping up more and more in co-ord sets too, which is a super wearable trend. As mentioned, plissé pieces like co-ord sets, dresses and tops are also ideal for transporting, so if you’re heading to a wedding or on holiday and need an outfit that doesn’t require ironing, I couldn’t recommend it more. It allows you to look put together without minimal effort, which is how I like it!

How to care for Plissé

Avoid using too much heat on Plissé, and if you do need to iron out some creases, make sure you use a steamer. An iron will damage the fabric, so this should be avoided. The same goes for washing; always, always wash Plissé on a cold wash and hand wash it if possible. This will prolong the life of your Plissé pieces, which is what we want! Do not, and I repeat DO NOT put it in the tumble dryer.

Plissé Picks

Looking to add some Plissé to your outfit rotation? It’s one of the easiest fabrics to wear. It flows beautifully, is easy to maintain and looks elegant. Below, you’ll find my personal favourite Plissé pieces to peruse.

Dresses

Samsøe Samsøe Alinea Plissé-Satin Dress, now £140, Coggles – buy now

This beautiful Samsøe Samsøe dress is in the Coggles sale now, with 30% off. The Scandi brand offers gorgeous clothes, and this is clearly no exception. The striking colour is a statement, but the loose fit looks elegant.

Plissé Midi Slip Dress, £85, COS – buy now

For a cheaper alternative that’s no less stylish, head to COS. This slip dress is a nod to the 90s, while the plissé makes it more modern and stylish.

Y.A.S plisse textured maxi dress with v neck in bright pink, £60, ASOS – buy now

Y.A.S has an even brighter option, with long sleeves and a V neck. I adore this dress. Wear it with heels for a dinner or night out, or ballet flats if you’re feeling more casual.

Tops

Le haut maille plissé, £275, Jacquemus – buy now

Want to dip your toe into the trend? A top is a great place to start. This stunning strappy top from Jacquemus is an investment, but one worth making.

Jersey Plisse Slash Neck Top, £35, Autograph at M&S – buy now

If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative, head to M&S, where you’ll find this simple black Plissé top. Autograph offers matching trousers, so if you want to complete the whole look, you can!

Elodie Tie Front Beach Shirt, £59, Hush – buy now

I love a loose fit, so this tie front style from Hush is my favourite. Picture yourself wearing this on a cool summer evening on holiday, or on a nice weekend adventure.

Sets

Bethany Top, £168, Rails – buy now

Rowan Pant, £198, Rails – buy now

Aside from dresses, Plissé co-ords are the easiest way to get in on the trend. I’m absolutely in LOVE with this set from Rails, which feature Ganni-inspired ties on the top, and the colour is to die for.

Beige Plisse Waistcoat, £28, River Island – buy now

Beige Plisse Wide Leg Trousers, £30, River Island – buy now

I’m surprised at how perfect River Island have got it with this set and it’s not a bad price too. This is definitely a summer piece, so team it with cute flat sandals and a basket bag for an easy warm weather look.