Plaid always finds its way back, let that be known. Every couple of seasons it returns stronger, making us look at Fall runways and trend forecasts, wondering if checks are back on the list again. Spoiler, they almost always are. Cold weather just loves those squares. Here’s a quick background check and how to finally make your closet admit that checked print is cool.
Plaid equals Scotland in most people’s minds, but the pattern’s way older than kilts and bagpipes. Bronze Age Europe? Checks. Alpine digs? Checks. Celtic and African tribes? Also checks. No fashion, just weavers trying to make cloth durable. But yes, Scotland is where plaid finally got its storyline. Clans had their own tartans, literal patterned IDs. Wear the wrong one and it wasn’t a style mistake, it was one of identity, loyalty, politics and territory. What started with lines became a cultural system everywhere. And that system went from aristocracy, basically Royal’s second skin, to street statement thanks to Vivienne Westwood and punk culture, and somehow ended up being a preppy favorite too. Checks really have commitment issues, what a journey. And yet here we are centuries later, treating them like a whole new aesthetic.
Today plaid lives everywhere, oversized structured coats, pleated Chopova Lowena-like skirts, knee-high stiletto boots, they come in every possible way. Finally, well deserved. And oh boy, what a killer outfit they make when worn right. Mix and match is almost always the way to go for a statement in checks. My simplest tip is, dig out that old plaid from high-school glory days, spot the main colors of the pattern, and echo them in a second piece. If you’re feeling daring, go on and add more pieces. Starting off small with streetwear? A simple checkered scarf under a plaid cap will do. Want to go bigger? Think maxi skirt, perhaps asymmetric over a pair of pants, padded blazer, structured coat, heeled boots and a tie. Keep a breathing space, a crisp white shirt underneath, bag and sunglasses. Moral of the day, there’s countless plaid out there, don’t just wear it, mix it and layer it. Full effect is always bolder.
From utility to identity, status to revolution, runways to streets, plaid has truly earned its stripes. Punks, weavers, royals, checks have seen it all, so however you choose to embrace them, now is your moment. They aren’t subtle though, so why should you be? Make those squares proud.
