accordion pleat

noun

1. one of a series of narrow, evenly spaced parallel pleats with alternating raised and recessed folds set into cloth or other material, usually by a commercial pleating machine.

Word History and Origins

Origin of accordion pleat¹

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

Draped from delicate fabrics, the new iterations on the accordion pleat can create delicate, feminine silhouettes or strong standout looks.

From Los Angeles Times

As usual, she applied irony to overly sweet gestures like flowers, lacy tops, and mother-of-the-bride coats over accordion pleat silk skirts.

From New York Times