10 Chic-as-Hell Ways to Wear Plaid This Fall
Of all the prints synonymous with autumn, we'd go out on a limb and say plaid does the heavy lifting. It's timeless, versatile, and available in a myriad of flattering color palettes, like deep blues and greens. Last fall, you likely participated in the check blazer trend that took the style set by storm (and probably will this season, too, if we're being honest), but in the spirit of branching out, we decided to take to the internet for some outfit research on fresh ways to incorporate plaid into our wardrobes.
What we found was a truly inspiring assortment of looks that range from everyday classics to more adventurous riffs on the autumnal pattern. Whether you're in the mood for ways to style your check trousers for work or need a novel approach to layering multiple plaid pieces together, we've culled a little something for everyone. Scroll down for 10 unique ensembles from favorites like Pernille Teisbaek, Jayne Min, and more, and if you need to stock up on your plaids, shop our picks to get their looks.
1. Plaid on Plaid
Take a cue from Pernille Teisbaek and pair a blazer and a button-down shirt in similarly toned plaid patterns. Balance the duo with denim or leather pants.
Available in size XS to XL.
Available in size XXS to XL.
2. Prairie Dress
We're excited to test-drive this dress trend all throughout autumn, so why not make it a plaid one? Toughen things up with some minimal jewelry and sneakers.
Available in size XS to L.
3. Boxy Trousers
Consider ditching your solid slacks for a while and rotating a pair of plaid pants into your closet.
Available in size 0 to 10.
4. Flannel
Nothing beats a flannel top and blue jeans. Dress yours up a bit with white booties and statement earrings.
Available in size XS to L.
5. Pop of Color
Though checks are typically swathed in neutral tones, we do love grabbing a piece in a brighter hue. If you need a pop of color to add to an outfit, we think you should make it a plaid one this season.
6. Statement Suit
You'll never regret investing in a well-fitted suit—especially if it's in a seasonal pattern like plaid. Style with a lived-in tee and heels for an unexpected night-out look.
Blazer and matching Pants ($70) available in size XS to XL.
7. Classic Blazer
Sometimes you just need a reliably polished outfit within arm's reach, which is why we're suggesting this look. Style a plaid blazer with a sweater, jeans, and ankle boots for a consistently perfect ensemble.
Available in sizes XS to L.
8. Pencil Skirt
Spruce up your office essentials for autumn with the addition of a plaid pencil skirt.
Available in size S to L.
9. Bold Blouse
Step up your after-hours wardrobe with a plaid blouse in an eye-catching silhouette.
Available in size 2 to 10.
10. Mixed Prints
One of our favorite layering tricks is mixed prints; try plaid with stripes and animal prints this time around.
Available in size XXS to L.
Available in size XS to M.
Next up, find out which easy fall outfit is already everywhere.
Nicole Kliest is a freelance writer and editor based in New York City who focuses on fashion, travel, food, wine, and pretty much anything else that's amusing to write about. After graduating from Pepperdine University with a bachelor's in journalism and creative writing, she started her career back in 2010 as Who What Wear's photo editor and throughout the last decade has contributed to publications including Fashionista, Harper's Bazaar, Elle, The Zoe Report, PopSugar, Fodor's Travel, and several others. She also copywrites and has worked with clients such as Frame, Sea, 3x1, Intelligentsia, and others to develop brand voices through storytelling and creative marketing. She's very passionate about the ways we can improve our sustainability efforts in the fashion industry as well as cultivating content that's diverse and inclusive of all people. When she's not checking out the latest restaurant opening in her West Village neighborhood or riding her bicycle along the West Side Highway, she can be found scheming her next trip somewhere around the world. (Up next is Vienna.)
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