A Guide to Wearing Plaid Like a Pro
When it comes to wearing plaid, it's important to keep a few styling tips in mind. This casual yet fun pattern can be dressed up or down to your liking. With these plaid styling tips, you'll be rocking one of the most versatile patterns in clothing. Here's how to properly style plaid for any occasion.
Color Match
The most important thing to know when wearing plaid is how to use other clothing pieces to complement the plaid's complex color lineup. Use complementary or matching colors with plaid flannel shirts to create a put-together look. Aim to match with corduroy leggings or even jeans with elements of the colors in your plaid top. It helps to choose plaid that has some overlap, so you can double up on basic tees and tanks to match multiple plaid patterns.
Wear It Open
Plaid shirts look casual and fun if they aren't buttoned up. This look creates a layered effect that's casual yet stylish. Think beyond the simple white tee and aim to match or complement plaid.
For example, if there are a lot of blues in your plaid shirt, wear it open with a burnt-orange shirt underneath. The burnt orange makes the blues in the plaid pop but doesn't make you look too matched. Aim to layer up plaid with complementary colors, or select a tertiary color found in the plaid. This helps bring out the plaid pattern without creating too much clash.
Don't like to wear shirts open? Keep just a few unbuttoned. Let the layer underneath shine through without having to wear a completely open shirt.
Pair With the Basics
Plaid patterns are complex, which draws the eye to them. Don't overdo other patterns while wearing plaid. Instead, opt for basic items to match. For example, if you want to wear a plaid mid-length skirt for the office, complement the look with a silky, plain blouse on top. This lets the plaid act as the highlight of the outfit, while the other elements enhance the plaid pattern instead of clashing with it.
Accessorize
Accessorizing with plaid can be a bit tough. But fear not, there are a few easy ways to achieve this. Use bold, chunky colors to go with plaid. You want to avoid wearing items like scarves with plaid shirts that have a lot of design and pattern because that will clash with plaid. Pair plaid slacks with a basic women's sweater and an understated scarf. Use long necklaces to draw the eye down to highlight your fabulous plaid look.
Formal Plaid
Plaid isn't just about creating a laid-back look. It turns out that this print is perfect for business casual, too. Plaid jumper dresses and skorts are a great way to add plaid to more formal attire. You can even get a plaid suit or sports jacket. For sports jackets, think simple underneath and on the bottom. You'll highlight the structured look of the sports jacket without overwhelming the eye.
Pop That Plaid
Instead of going full-out with a plaid jacket or skirt, use plaid as an accent piece. Plaid handbags, scarves, and booties are a great way to glam up your accessories. Plaid booties are in right now. Those cute, ankle-length boots look incredible with a simple pair of black skinny jeans. You can also wear a plaid scarf with a basic sweater to create an eye-catching look that's ready for snuggle season. Plaid purses are a great addition to any wardrobe since you can mix and match for any occasion.
Subtle Plaid
Another way to stylishly integrate plaid into your wardrobe is to go for a vintage or worn feel. Snag a plaid skirt that uses similar colors or thin lines. This brings a dynamic plaid look without feeling overdone or too loud. The result is a subtle texture that beats out a monochrome skirt. The subtle plaid look also makes a great suit pattern that isn't too overwhelming on the eyes.
Overall, there are many options when it comes to wearing plaid. This classic fabric pattern has been in style for nearly a decade, and over the years it has evolved to suit any occasion. Wear your plaid in fun ways this season by styling your wardrobe to match your personal taste.