How to Wear Plaid

One of the most important fashion trends for fall is the re-emergence of plaid. Whether it be a simple black and white checked pattern or a bold, brightly colored tartan, plaid will make its mark on fashion this winter. Despite its popularity with designers and celebrities, not everyone feels comfortable wearing boldly patterned prints. To some it seems too “school girlish” while to others it seems too bold. There are ways to adapt the plaid trend to enhance your current wardrobe without being overwhelming. Here are some ideas on how to wear plaid.

Keep it subtle

Plaid clothing can make a bold statement so it’s best to keep the rest of your outfit subtle. Avoid the urge to go plaid crazy by pairing plaid tops with plaid bottoms. Too much plaid can be busy and distracting. Take a close look at your wardrobe and think about how you could add a plaid piece or two to your closet that will pull together what you already own. One of the most versatile purchases would be a fitted plaid blazer or a sleek plaid coat to wear with pants, sweaters, and boots. Think of plaid as a statement piece and keep the rest of your look simple.

Choose a pattern based on your build

Plaid patterns run the gamut from big and bold to small and subtly elegant. Choose your plaid patterns based on your body type and size. A bold, bright plaid may be too overwhelming if you’re short in stature. You may be best suited to a finer, more discrete plaid pattern in classic or neutral colors. In contrast, if you’re tall and slender, you can pull off busier, bolder plaid patterns. Spend some time in your favorite department stores and boutiques trying on a variety of plaids and see what works for you.

Avoid plaid pants

Very few people can successfully pull off the look of plaid pants. Even if you’re 5′10” and supermodel slender, plaid pants can make you look chunky. Plus, no matter what you pair them with, they’re always going to look busy. If you have a burning desire to wear plaid on the bottom, a tartan skirt is a better choice. Team it with dark tights knee high boots for a fresh and fashionable look for winter.

Consider plaid accessories

If you won’t want to indulge too heavily in the plaid trend, you’ll find a variety of plaid accessories for winter that will give you a touch of plaid without overwhelming your frame. Why not wear a pair of low heeled plaid shoes with tights and skirt for a fresh look for winter? Another way to get some plaid to your wardrobe is to carry a plaid handbag or add a plaid belt or headband to an outfit. This is a cost effective way to get the look of plaid while keeping your wardrobe classic.

Plaid can be an interesting way to add impact to your winter wardrobe. Have fun experimenting!