Ladies and gentlemen sit down differently. Unfortunately, so many women have been brought up only wearing trousers, pants, jeans and have never worn a skirt or dress. So effectively are in the same position as men are.

In general, men tend to bend at the waist; aim their bum at the spot and then lower them selves straight down. That is why the pleats would bunch up - they are hanging strait down and have nowhere to go. Even sweeping the pleats might not be 100% effective.

On the other hand, a lady bends at the knees, straightens her skirt and slides into the same spot. The difference being that from the first moment she starts to sit, her pleats are held flat and in position. No bunching.