All the ways to wear plaid right now — and not a scarf in sight
Checks reappear every fall as the unofficial back-to-school uniform. Here's the most modern way to wear them
Plaid's reputation precedes it. Preppy, grungy or cabin-cozy, it seems to know its place. But this season changes everything you thought you knew about the tried and true check. It's no longer about artfully tying a tartan scarf around your neck or slipping a checkerboard blazer over your shoulders. How boring! This time around, plaid turned up on the runways in unexpected ways thanks to daring colour combinations, new proportions and exciting pairings.
At Michael Kors, four different patterns played off each other in the same outfit, Dior decorated tulle skirts with thick bars and Calvin Klein paired a buffalo plaid coat with a business suit. No one will mistake you for a schoolgirl in one of Prada's plaid skirt suits shot with highlighter orange.
It takes confidence to wear a plaid suit to a formal occasion. If you're bold enough to try head-to-toe tartan, make sure your shirt and tie are minimal to let the print take centre stage.
Le31 Tartan Jacket, $225 (on sale for $149.95), and Le31 Check Pant, $89, simons.ca
Want to try the season's pleated, schoolgirl skirts? Steer clear of knee-high socks and striped varsity sweaters if your high school days are behind you. Instead, team them with sophisticated silk blouses and slick leather boots.
Patchwork Mini Skirt, $79.90, zara.com
Under-the-radar bag brands like The Volon are finally getting their time in the sun. Known for unusual shapes and cool colour blocking, this boxy top-handle has tons of great details like faux fur, a fun lining and laser-cut leather.
The Volon Plaid Great Box Bag With Faux Fur Trim, $1,614.58, nordstrom.com
There are plaid shirts and then there's this beauty. It's the kind of cozy layering piece that you'll throw over everything. And the smattering of crystals across the shoulders are a dead giveaway that you didn't just get home from a camping trip (in case anyone was wondering).
Checked Jacket Finished With Studs, $675, sandro-paris.com
Even sneakers can't escape the tartan treatment. Waves of plaid turn this black running shoe into something extra special.
Nike Air Max 97 SE Sneaker, $247.34, nordstrom.com
Thanks to Balenciaga, puffer coats have had a major comeback. This season's spin? They come in plaid. Roots' ultra-light version hits shelves in November, just in time for the deep freeze.
Collar Packable Jacket, $178, available in November at Roots stores and roots.com
Bold brushstrokes lend a decidedly downtown edge to a traditional check. A skinny stiletto heel and pointy toe help too.
Sigonia Boot, $120, aldoshoes.com
This blazer was named after the Duchess of Cambridge who famously wore it during her Canadian tour. It won't get you into the palace, but you will be crowned best dressed.
Patch Pocket Duchess Blazer, $695, shopsmythe.ca
These jeans will blow your basic skinnies out of the water. The checked ankle-skimming cuff, plaid back pocket and velvet belt make them a worthy addition to your denim wardrobe.
Isa Arfen Contrast Cuff Jeans, $458.54, shopbop.com
Nothing beats sweater dressing when the mercury drops. The zoomed in print and 3D texture on this turtleneck will make it a fast fave.
Plaid Turtleneck, $34, joefresh.com
Caitlan Moneta (@caitlanmoneta) is a Toronto-based fashion editor, writer and stylist. She's a firm believer that there's nothing a little retail therapy can't fix.