Skirt fold (5)
I believe the answer is:
'skirt fold' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for pleat that I've seen before include "Fold in material" , "Double fold in a garment" , "Fold in clothing" , "Fold pressed or stitched into cloth" , "Flat fold of cloth" .)