How to Wear Plaid: Styling Tips for Every Occasion
Plaid is one of those iconic patterns that has withstood the test of time, from classic tartan to modern checks. While it might remind you of preppy school uniforms or cozy fall flannels, plaid can be styled in fresh, contemporary ways for every occasion. Whether you’re going for casual, professional, or bold, there’s a plaid look for you. Here’s how to wear plaid with confidence and style.
1. Start with the Basics: Plaid Shirts
A plaid shirt is a wardrobe staple, especially for more casual looks. The trick to styling plaid shirts is all in the fit and how you layer them. For a laid-back weekend look, choose an oversized flannel in neutral tones and pair it with skinny jeans or leggings. You can also tie it around your waist for a nod to ‘90s grunge. If you prefer a more tailored fit, tuck a fitted plaid shirt into high-waisted jeans or skirts for a cleaner, polished look. For a chic twist, layer your plaid shirt under a leather jacket or throw it over a simple dress. The mix of textures elevates the classic shirt, giving it a fresh feel.
2. Mix Plaid with Neutrals
If you’re hesitant to dive into full-on plaid outfits, start by pairing plaid pieces with neutrals. A plaid coat or blazer over an all-black or all-white outfit is an easy way to introduce pattern without overwhelming your look. You can also try a plaid scarf with a minimalist sweater and trousers. This way, the plaid acts as the focal point while keeping the rest of your outfit simple and chic.
3. Elevate Your Workwear with Plaid
Plaid isn’t just for casual days. It can also be a great way to add interest to your professional wardrobe. Swap your solid-colored blazers for a plaid one to elevate a work outfit. Look for structured blazers in muted tones like gray, navy, or black to keep things office-appropriate. Pair your plaid blazer with tailored trousers, a white button-down, or a fitted turtleneck for a sophisticated, polished look. You can also wear plaid pencil skirts or tailored pants. Stick to darker, muted plaids to keep the look professional, and balance the pattern with neutral tops. A plaid sheath dress with a simple cardigan or blazer can also work wonders for office wear.
4. Go Bold with Plaid on Plaid
Feeling adventurous? Double up on plaid! The key to pulling off plaid on plaid is choosing pieces in complementary colors and different plaid scales. For instance, pair a large-scale plaid blazer with smaller-checked plaid pants. To avoid overwhelming your outfit, stick to a cohesive color palette, such as shades of gray, navy, or earth tones. This keeps the outfit visually interesting without clashing. For an even bolder look, mix different types of plaid—like a tartan blazer with windowpane pants. Keep accessories simple to let the plaids be the star of the show.
5. Layer Plaid with Denim
Plaid and denim are a match made in fashion heaven. A plaid shirt layered over or under a denim jacket creates an easy, casual look. You can also layer a plaid coat over a pair of high-rise jeans and a simple tee for effortless street style. If you’re aiming for something more polished, go for plaid trousers with a classic denim jacket or chambray shirt. Finish the look with ankle boots for a perfect balance of rugged and refined.
6. Accessorize with Plaid
If you’re not ready to dive into full plaid clothing, accessories are a great way to experiment with the pattern. A plaid scarf can add a pop of color and pattern to any outfit. For a chic fall look, drape a plaid scarf over a camel coat or pair it with a monochrome outfit for a touch of contrast. Plaid bags, hats, and shoes are also a subtle way to incorporate plaid. Try a plaid tote bag or crossbody to add a playful element to a minimalist outfit. A plaid beret or a pair of loafers in a tartan print can take a simple outfit to the next level.
7. Try Plaid in Different Silhouettes
Plaid isn’t limited to shirts or skirts—this season, experiment with different plaid silhouettes like wide-leg pants, jumpsuits, or even dresses. A plaid maxi dress, for example, can be dressed up or down depending on how you style it. Pair it with a leather jacket and boots for a cool, edgy look, or with ballet flats and a cardigan for something more feminine and soft. Plaid wide-leg trousers can also make a bold fashion statement. Keep the top half of your outfit fitted to balance the volume of the pants and avoid overwhelming your frame.
8. Mix Plaid with Other Patterns
Plaid is a versatile pattern that can be paired with others if done right. Try mixing plaid with stripes, florals, or even polka dots. The key is to keep the color palette consistent and balance the size of the patterns. For example, a plaid blazer with a thin-striped turtleneck can work beautifully together if the colors complement each other.
Start small—pair a plaid scarf with a striped top, or mix plaid pants with a subtle floral blouse. Once you get comfortable, you can experiment with bolder combinations, like a plaid suit with a graphic print tee.
Conclusion
Plaid is a timeless pattern that offers endless styling possibilities. From casual flannel shirts to chic plaid blazers and accessories, there are countless ways to wear plaid no matter the occasion. Whether you prefer to go bold with a plaid-on-plaid ensemble or keep it subtle with plaid accessories, this versatile print can be tailored to fit your unique style. So, embrace plaid this season, and get creative with how you incorporate this classic pattern into your wardrobe.