While magazines and store windows are full of the latest trends for fall and winter, one trend seems to be more popular than the rest. From Urban Outfitters to Dolce and Gabbana, plaid - also referred to as tartan or bull-check - is in for men and women. But, this isn't the grungy flannel Kurt Cobain and the MTV generation of the '90s wore or the crisp Christmas plaid of your childhood. Instead, those who wear this plaid are what you might call "polished woodsmen."
While the pattern is the same, it's available in a variety of styles. From a smaller classical version to the super trendy bull-check, there's plenty of plaid for everyone. Color has also played a large part in the revival of plaid. Bold neon and complimentary colors have taken a more adventurous turn with this print. At the other end of the spectrum, is the "barely there" plaid of Dolce and Gabbana's Glen plaid straight skirt. This subtle design is a more elegant version of the old standard.
For women, this rustic trend takes the form of playful tunics, traditional button downs, casual jackets and vibrant scarves. While the print has more of a masculine history, designers have altered the silhouette so it can be worn in a number of ways. The tunic and shirtdress are two of our favorite pieces because they can be worn casually with leggings but still make a put together look. A tailored plaid top or dress accented with a frill along the buttons is the utmost of femininity. Marc by Marc Jacobs offers a silk plaid top with pleating at the sleeves that is soft and ladylike. And while plaid is trendy now, the pattern has such a classic touch that the items you buy won't be out of style next season.
Though plaid has been refitted in a flirty way for women, men also have a few new options from preppy plaid bow ties and scarves to tailored button downs and outerwear with fun plaid linings. The wool tartan ties by J.Crew are a great addition to every guy's fall and winter wardrobe. They come in a range of colors too. J. Crew also takes the flannel shirt and refines it a bit for a cleaner look for men. Guys shouldn't shy away from brighter plaids either. This quirky version can liven up your outfit without being too outrageous.
There are a few things you need to remember when you sift through your favorite plaid pieces this season:
1 The size of your plaid is very important. The general rule is that the larger your silhouette, the larger your print should be. If you wear a smaller print it will make you seem larger than you are. This works the other way as well - smaller frames can get swamped in larger prints.
2 While neon colors are extremely trendy, they are not right for everyone. Bright shades are difficult to pull off with certain skin tones. To avoid washing out your skin tone or clashing with your undertones, try on your vibrant plaid pieces before you buy them.
3 Also, while it may be fun to buy into extremely trendy items, buy a few classic plaid pieces that will last through a few seasons.
Plaid may be at the center of this outdoorsy trend, but this rural style is also exhibited in a range of accessories. From the ever popular moccasins and boots produced by Minnetonka to the reemergence of the earthy headbands worn over the forehead, it's easy to sprinkle a little bit of this trend into your everyday wardrobe. Like any good thing, plaid is easily overdone, so pick your pieces carefully.
With such a variety to choose from, it's almost impossible to ignore this gorgeously revamped standard.
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