A disposable wearable absorbent article comprises a chassis having an absorbent core and first and second side panels extending transversally outwards towards respective outer edges. Each of the first and second side panels comprises a mechanical fastening material affixed to an outer end portion of the panel whereby, in use, the first and second side panels can extend around a user's waist to couple the first and second side panels to the chassis. Each of the side panels is gathered in a longitudinal direction to form at least one pleat extending in the transverse direction, and comprises a binding material affixed to respective side panels to maintain each of the first and second side panels in a gathered configuration. A method for forming disposable wearable absorbent articles is also disclosed.