Take a look around, in just about every city, store, school, or public place you will see it. There is something about plaid this year. It feels different, looks different and I can’t seem to get enough of it! Sure, it’s the time of year where we Southerners shake the warm weather and finally feel like it may be cold enough to step out in anything but a tank top. I’m definitely guilty of checking the weather to see if just maybe I can throw on a flannel or chambray and not sweat too bad.
Years ago (ahem), flannels were so grunge. I proudly wore them over everything. Men’s size, of course, and way too big. Horrible colors–I know this. But it was so Pearl Jam and it didn’t matter. Fast forward a few years and now we’ve finally figured it out. We can wear a flannel shirt and style it well! I think that’s it! There has been a shift in fashion of an age-old pattern of colors in squares. Plaid can be cool, comfortable and chic, and worn for just about any occasion.
Those grunge days scared me away from plaid for years–always wanting to go back. I wanted to figure out how to wear it well and feel girly and not feel like I’m in my pajamas. Two things changed my thinking recently: fabric and fit. The Fabric choices we have now are endless. So many weights, textures, and looks can make the plaid look just right on you and feminine. And most importantly the fit. Oh how I love a good fit! Check out these plaid pieces I found! The really great blue plaid jacket is from Target! Notice the tunic style instead of a full button down? Make sure when trying on that it hits you in all the right places (shoulders, waist, hip). If not, leave that wannabe cowgirl in the dressing room! Here is some simple plaid advice to follow:
Start With Color
Go with your safe colors–you know; the colors you always gravitate towards? Okay, pick those.
STYLE Your Plaid
This is SO important. Don’t just ‘add flannel’ to your outfit…style that baby up! Don’t leave the house without the sleeves rolled, a bold pair of earrings like these and a great pair of booties to pull it all together.
Get On Trend
Alright, you’re ready to step out in plaid with no intentions of chopping wood or attending a pajama party…
What to do? Add coordinating metallic. Some shine, bling, or pop! Ease into it with jewelry, then try some great metallic heels or texture contrast. Instant change, right?! Now, it’s the Holidays, so you could even go for sequins if you dare! Tone everything else down if you choose to accept this challenge, but have fun with it. You are going for confident, not confusing!
CHECK It
The plaid patterns are endless. Try on a few and see what size check or pattern compliments your shape. Beware: some will not! Dial in a lifeline if you must. Take that selfie in the dressing room and get some help from a friend. Large patterns can swallow a small figure, and small patterns can look out of proportion on a full figure. Consider starting with a scarf and a solid fitted shirt. Look for the best fit and it will most likely make you the proud owner of a perfectly stylish (and updated) plaid pattern in your closet.
About the Author
Growing up in Florida, Lisa had an eye on the fashion world from an early age. She attended Florida State University’s Fashion Design and Merchandising Program and continued to work in fashion retail, buying, and advertising. In 2003, she married her husband, Chris, and they moved to the coast. They now have three children that keep them on their toes. When she’s not writing or homeschooling, she’s doing one of her most favorite things; being active with her family. She loves yoga and quiet time (which is rare!), a Bold Bean latte, and hacking recipes to make healthier versions. Her absolute favorite thing to write about is following trends and tapping into your own style on a budget.
