Few patterns are as iconic and recognizable as plaid. Originating from the “Tartan” style of cloth used in ancient Scotland, this print is a well-known fashion staple around the world.[1] When it comes to this versatile pattern, the possibilities are endless—to help narrow down your options, peek through this list for a little outfit inspiration! We've got ideas for casual outfits, formal ensembles, and everything in between.

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Recreate an iconic look with a plaid flannel and jeans.

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  • Question
    What are some faux pas when you're wearing plaid?
    Katie Quinn
    Katie Quinn
    Image Consultant
    Katie Quinn is an Image Consultant, Personal Wardrobe Stylist and the Founder of Q the Stylist, an image consulting service based in New York City helping men and women understand their specific goals, improve their wardrobe, performance, and life. She has over 11 years of image consulting experience and has worked as a stylist for Trunk Club, Modewalk, and Moda Operandi. Her work has been featured in Vogue, InStyle, Martha Stewart Weddings, Sheridan Road, Slate, Newsy, Rue, and Thrillist.
    Katie Quinn
    Image Consultant
    Expert Answer

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    I don't think there's a blanket answer for that—it's really personal. Do choose a plaid that's proportionate to your body—a smaller person needs a smaller plaid, while a larger person can wear a larger plaid.
  • Question
    What kind of pants should I wear with flannel?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    Black or blue jeans work with any flannel. If you're a girl/someone who wears feminine clothing, black leggings are a good option also.
  • Question
    What kind of hat goes best with a plaid button up and chinos?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    A panama or fedora in a neutral color works best. If you have one in a color that matches your plaid, that works too.
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About This Article

Katie Quinn
Co-authored by:
Image Consultant
This article was co-authored by Katie Quinn and by wikiHow staff writer, Janice Tieperman. Katie Quinn is an Image Consultant, Personal Wardrobe Stylist and the Founder of Q the Stylist, an image consulting service based in New York City helping men and women understand their specific goals, improve their wardrobe, performance, and life. She has over 11 years of image consulting experience and has worked as a stylist for Trunk Club, Modewalk, and Moda Operandi. Her work has been featured in Vogue, InStyle, Martha Stewart Weddings, Sheridan Road, Slate, Newsy, Rue, and Thrillist. This article has been viewed 200,058 times.
2 votes - 90%
Co-authors: 10
Updated: October 21, 2021
Views: 200,058
Categories: Color in Fashion
Article SummaryX

If you’re going to wear plaid, be sure to wear only one piece at a time, and avoid crisscrossing lines, which can be overwhelming or "busy" to look at. Next, pair your plaid with solid colors like white, black, or grey, since they go with many different colors and don’t clash with the complicated patterns of plaid. Alternatively, try matching plaid with one color that’s similar to another color in your outfit, such as jeans that are a shade similar to the blue in your plaid shirt. For tips on how to incorporate plaid accessories, like scarves, into your outfit, read on…

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