Rad In Plaid

A little bit Scottish, a little bit Vivenne Westwood, a whole lotta street style.
Yes, we are mad for plaid this season. Spring is suggesting you get outside, so pick a skirt that sings, a dress with checks, pants with panache, or a pretty tailored jacket, and let your inner prepster or grunge girl out (equal parts both, perhaps?). Who knows, it’s all in the mix. Traditionally made of wool, today’s plaid comes in a variety of lighter fabrics. Think linens and cottons for eighties preppy, or embrace nostalgic nineties flannel reinvented as a dress. Whatever you choose, we detect a pattern here. And it looks terrific on you.

SKIRTS
The Britney Spears schoolgirl uniform a la Baby One More Time music video is one way to wear it, but a midi and a black turtleneck feels more style teacher than student. Add an ankle boot and a high pony for smart-meets-sexy.

TRY:
Forever 21 Glen Plaid High-Low Skirt ($38)
Zara Check Mini Skirt ($100)
Veronica Beard Kaia Embroidered Checked Cotton Blend Mini Skirt ($295)
DRESSES
For tomboys and glamour gals alike, a plaid dress hits the sweet spot. No additional prints needed, but do try adding bold jewelry for a cool high-low mix.

TRY:
Missguided Blue Skater Plaid Shirt Dress ($43)
Misty Dress Majorelle ($158)
Rosie Assoulin Cutout Checked Voile Midi Dress ($1695)
PANTS/JUMPSUITS
A little retro sixities pant looks lovely with a shrunken t-shirt. Add a ballet flat and attitude. Just think W.W.T.E.R.W. ? (What would Tracee Ellis Ross Wear?), and you’re set.

TRY:
UO Casey Plaid Kick Flare Pant ($39)
Forever 21 Plaid Open-Back Jumpsuit ($58)
Gucci Embroidered Checked Wool Flared Pants ($1300)
JACKETS
Supremely pretty tailored jackets; extra points for a puff sleeve. Add to a wide leg pant for the office or skinny denim for girl’s night out. Go for shoulder pads and make Grace Jones proud.

TRY:
Nasty Gal Just Checking Up Blazer ($70)
Halogen Windowpane Plaid One Button Blazer ($140)
Isabel Marant Etoile Laney Checked Linen Blazer ($525)