Trend Tuesday- Stylist Tips to Wear a Pleated Skirt Like Emmy Rossum, her midi is by Sonia Rykiel

I’ll Have What She’s Having: Vintage Italian actress style that’s smart and sexy

Work it like Gina Lollabrigida on Rome’s via Vento, back in the 50s!

What is not to love about this capricious and classic look; particularly when the pleats are sexy and do not evoke Marion the Librarian.

Shop: Sonia Rykiel at Shopbop

Flirty, romantic and ultra-feminine, pleated a-line knee-length skirts are guaranteed to elicit an ode to old-school starlet style glamour, but that’s not exactly what this season’s top Spring 2012 is about, per se.

Take a look at actress Emmy Rossum’s play on the trend in a bordeaux Sonia Rykiel skirt while out and about on the streets channeling an easy grace in a modern, streetstyle friendly outfit to boot.

Switch out to these cute ghillie lace-up flats for a easy summer day look- Gentle Souls Break My Heart Flats Sandals at Piperlime

>>More: Celebrity Style

Take note on these tips to wear pleats in style:

• If you have a bit of a belly, opt for pleats that start below your hipbone to create the illusion of a flatter stomach
• There’s a natural breeziness to a full-pleated skirt (think Marilyn Monroe) so opt for knee-length styles that look alluring rather than vulgar when the wind hits
• Add a bit of interest to your footwear, like Emmy’s lacing, to keep the look flirty

Besides the matchy bag (leave it at home girls!), Rossum made a smart move by pairing her skirt with lace-up ghillie ankle wrap  ballet inspired shoes and a tie-neck blouse that highlighted her skirts high-waist. Try the flat option, pictured right, for a more casual feel.

Here, her reality minded adds-on’s make for a do as they remain neutral enough to ground her trend piece with a more urbane ease while forgoing an overtly retro vibe. Take a cue from the star and pair your pleated skirts with luxe, grown-up classics that have an elegant appeal to them.– Naveed Hussain

SHOP some of these flirty midi & knee-length pleated skirts:

Photo: Sonia Rykiel