Plaid coats and flared jeans: A combo we're loving for fall
How to pair and wear this topper and demin duo right now.
Summer officially extends into September, but my thoughts are fully focused on fall clothes. What needs updating in my closet? What should I invest in? What trends do I want to try? Jackets and jeans are go-to basics that can really showcase your personal style. This season, we're talking plaid overcoats and flared or wide-legged jeans.
Plaid never really goes away, but it made a splashy resurgence on fall/winter runways. Stella McCartney, Balenciaga and Prada showed double-breasted overcoats in muted neutrals (super chic), while crayon colours were seen at Versace and Michael Kors (super cool). And the skinny jean, while still a staple, has taken a backseat to looser, less constricting styles. Not sure? Scroll down for five pairings perfect for that first crisp morning.
This double-breasted, cherry red, plaid overcoat is a runway-to-real life dream – it's affordable and versatile. Made from a wool-blend and lined, this jacket is warm enough to take you through winter with some layering. Pair it with these statement jeans with silver buttons running down the outer leg. They're high-waisted and slim through the thigh with a relaxed flare that isn't too bell-bottom or too boot-cut.
C/Meo Collective Magnets Coat, $366.66, shopbop.com + 1981 Snap-Button Flared Jean, $138, simons.ca
If you're in the market for a neutral plaid, this belted trench in black and white check with a touch of red couldn't be better priced. It's a classic shape that won't go out of style, plus, it comes in extended sizes beyond XL, which is always welcome. Style tip: I love a trench with a popped collar to block wind (but really, to feel like a mysterious film noir heroine). A classic coat calls for classic jeans. Don't let the words bootcut put you off; this isn't a '90s cut, but an updated skinny jean with a flare that starts at the knee. The Curvy line from Gap features a contoured waist to stop gapping at the back, and room in the hips.
Dynamite Belted Plaid Trench Coat, $119.95, dynamiteclothing.com + Gap Mid Rise Perfect Boot Curvy Jeans, $79.95, gapcanada.ca
Moving into lighter territory – both colour and fabric – brings us to this delightful black, marigold and periwinkle plaid. This coat is unlined, so while not for colder temps, it's ideal for transitional weather when you aren't sure if you'll be sweating or shivering. Pair it with rust-coloured wide-leg jeans with raw hems to toughen it up; the shade brings out the orange tones in the coat. These aren't exactly flares, more wide-legged jeans cut straight through the hips with a high waist.
Topshop Check Duster Coat, $134, topshop.com + Zara ZW Premium Marine Straight Jeans, $49.90, zara.com
Who knew how cute a purple plaid trench coat could be? Technically a Mac cut, short for Mackintosh — a raincoat, this one isn't water-resistant, though it is lined. You won't get wet in a light shower, but skip it in a storm. Pair it with dark wash flares for a '70s throwback feel. These mid-rise jeans have a more exaggerated bell shape and are especially flattering for curvy gals.
ASOS Design Mac in Contrast Check, $136.76, asos.com + Articles of Society Faith Flare Jeans, $93.90, shopnordstrom.com
A traditional red, green and gold plaid reminds me of back to school, like those pencils you could clip right into your binder. (Remember those?) The straight cut of this very affordable double-breasted coat goes well with just about anything. For a laidback weekend vibe, pair it with high-waisted, wide-leg crop jeans with undone hems. A mid-tone wash works in every season – don't let the crop keep you from wearing these with tall, chunky-heeled boots come cold weather.
Shein Double Breasted Waterfall Plaid Longline Coat, $49, ca.shein.com + Levis High Water Wide Leg Jeans, $108, levi.com