Fashion & Firearms: Pleated Skirt Styled 3 Ways

Pleated Skirt Styled 3 Ways for Concealed Carry

There’s always a temptation to pull out darker colors during winter and if I don’t make an effort, I may never wear the lighter colors that I truly love. So I was thrilled to find this cream pleated skirt from Ann Taylor! Up until recently, it hasn’t been terribly cold in Ohio, so I styled it with my favorite pointed stiletto pumps and ballet flats. However, as the temperatures drop, my tall boots will be more appropriate.

Fit: When the skirt arrived, I was originally disappointed that it was loose around the waist. I almost exchanged it for another size until I realized it made room for my Croosbreed Modular Bellyband! (More on that below).

After receiving a new item in my wardrobe, I like to see how many different ways I can style it. Doing some creative work upfront, helps me get ready quicker when I’m about to run out the door. So, here are three ways to style a white pleated skirt for concealed carry.

Style 1: Professional Attire

This is my favorite combination! I’m carrying my Sig P365 in the Dene Adams Thigh holster shorts, with the bodysuit tucked into the shorts. The combination of the two compressive pieces smooths out my figure and overall just makes me feel secure.

When I conceal carry in thigh holster shorts, I like to use a concealed carry purse as a back-up holster. This ensures I have somewhere to temporarily secure my gun when I need to disarm for any reason - public restrooms, dressing rooms, post office, etc. This black leather concealed carry purse is my new collaboration with Cameleon Handbags! You can check it out HERE.

The blazer is from Calvin Klein and I love the Chanel vibe it gives with a belt around the small part of my waist. Believe it or not, this is meant to be a cropped jacket, but when you have a short torso you can style it like this. These are my favorite heels from INC International Concepts, but a pair of black suede booties would winterize the look.

Style 2: Elevated Casual

I love this monochromatic look, broken up by rich brown accessories. I might like the combination better with a thicker belt and taller riding boots, but haven’t found the right ones for my wardrobe.

Yes, I’m calling it elevated casual, but this ensemble is also great for the office. Once again, I’m carrying in the Dene Adams Thigh Holster shorts and using my Tan “Natalie” concealed carry purse as a backup holster. I’m a huge fan of this thigh holster because it presses the firearm to the inside of my leg and I never have to worry about printing. There’s also a hard piece of plastic inside to protect from accidental discharge.

Style 3: Casual Chic

This look is probably more for spring, but it makes me feel flirty and fun so I couldn’t help myself! I’m using the Crossbreed Modular Bellyband which is easier to draw from than the thigh holster because it places the firearm near my hands and leaves the entire grip uncovered. The holster portion is backed by Velcro and can be used elsewhere such as a concealed carry purse or jacket!

With concealed carry, there’s often the question of, “Should I size up?” Generally, it depends on how much your clothes stretch. For a tailored skirt like this, I found sizing up to be helpful.

A slightly cropped sweater is advisable, so you don’t have to tuck it in, adding more bulk around your gun.

“Chime-In!”

So there go, three ways style a pleated skirt for concealed carry!

Which pieces do you already have in your wardrobe to create your own take on this look?

If you enjoyed this post, please comment below and subscribe to receive the Elegant & Armed Newsletter!