How to Wear Plaid Past the Holiday Season

Image via Complex Original

If you pick the right style, plaid pants can be totally badass. We aren’t talking about those outrageous trousers that golfers wear, but rather, essential punk-rock gear. Think slim and cropped like the ones Supreme and Comme des Garçons dropped. You can opt for bold reds and blues, or stick to a subtle pattern for a more classic look.

Patchwork is a fresh way to incorporate plaid. This season, several designers have worked with this type of mismatched paneling in a way that doesn’t make you look like a walking quilt. Whether it’s contrasting plaids on top of each other, or plaid incorporated with other patterns, the alternating materials come together in a dope and unique way. 

The plaid button-up is a timeless look. There is no reason it should be relegated to middle school dances and holiday work parties. The options for the shirts are pretty endless. From Burberry’s classic prints to Off-White’s streetwear options, there’s no reason why you can’t find one to add to your rotation. Not to mention, plaid flannels are especially clutch for this time of year given their warmth potential.

When it’s freezing cold outside, your coat makes your outfit. So you should opt for something that makes a statement. Plaid outerwear will easily take any look to the next level. Brands like Undercover take a rock 'n' roll approach with long silhouettes and raw edges, while others like 3.1 Philip Lim offer cropped bomber styles. Either way, you’ll look way more fire than the dude in the navy peacoat. 

If you are a fan of Don Draper, then you already know that plaid suits can be super fresh. But, thankfully the look has come a long way since the ’60s. Designers like Thom Browne have mastered the art of a perfectly tailored plaid suit for a new generation. You can even mix in other patterns with the matching set—just don’t get too carried away. 

From scarves to hats to socks, there are tons of ways you can set off your fit with plaid. Stick to neutral tones and you won’t look like you’re one of Santa’s little helpers. 

The idea of plaid shoes can be a little scary, but it can be done. Brands like Red Wing and Timberland have offered styles that incorporate the pattern into their traditional leather styles. Also, athletic brands like New Balance and Nike have released plaid covered sneakers. 

Recently, NIKEiD teamed up with Pendleton, a brand known for its iconic plaid, so you can customize eight iconic silhouettes with the checked pattern.

Just like plaid accessories, a plaid bag can set off any outfit. Marc Jacobs even made those $2 nylon plaid shoppers look high-fashion on the runway once. But, you should stay clear of those, and instead opt for a bag like the Saint Laurent hunting backpack with black and red plaid that is absolute fire. If you are more into weekenders or duffels, you can easily find those covered in the pattern, too.