The pleated on the waist is really nice. Just a nice simple classic black dress. Cant' have enough of them. This unassuming dress by Babette is a modern take on the basic short sleeve tee-dress. What's modern about it? - the fabric for one, the a-line shape, and the drawstring hemline, to be adjusted to your preference. Another surprise: the short elastic insert at the back hem that creates pleats above and below it. Very nice!