Even If You Hate Plaid Shirts, These 5 Outfit Ideas Will Change Your Mind

By Swedan MargenSeptember 8, 2025

Plaid is so back. I know—I also didn’t think the dated trend would be returning in the ways that it has this fall. What’s taken me aback is the fact that it’s not just your usual Burberry pops of plaid but rather the focal point of an outfit. Fashion people all across the internet have been wearing the trend in unlikely ways, from plaid trench coats to plaid skirts. Runway collections from Bottega Veneta, ACNE Studios, and even collections from The Row have all included plaid in everyday items.

While plaid is such a classic print, it’s surprisingly become an It-girl favorite rather than a popular anti-trend. It’s still a neutral print at the end of the day, but it can be played with in a myriad of ways, from pattern to color. So whether you’re into more muted tones and monochromatic outfits or like warmer tones and colorful looks, plaid is a trend that is malleable to any aesthetic. Don’t be fooled; it took me a minute to get into the trend, but after seeing a couple of stylish girls pull it off, I knew I could too. If you’re still on the fence and want some convincing to try the plaid trend, keep scrolling to see how to style it and shop the looks I discovered.

The Key Piece: Pleated Plaid Skirt

A woman wearing a brown cardigan, plaid pleated skirt, and red boots

Style Tip: Alyssa Coscarelli opted to keep the color palette warm. If you're hesitant to try plaid, just do the same.

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The simple cardigan of my dreams.

Lands' End

School Uniform Plaid Pleated Skirt Below the Knee

If this doesn't scream collegiate, than what does?

Dr. Martens

1460 Smooth Leather Lace Up Boots

Dr. Martens are my favorite boots for fall.

COACH

Bleecker Natural Grain Leather Shoulder Bag

A sleek brown bag never steered me wrong.

The Key Piece: Plaid Trench Coat

A woman wearing a plaid trench coat, blue jeans, and thong sandals

Style Tip: A trench coat over a pair of loose-fit jeans and sandals is still the perfect outfit combination, even when your coat is plaid.

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A new trench coat has been on my fall wish list.

ZARA

TRF Mid-Rise Baggy Balloon Jeans

Reformation

Jessie Thong Sandals

A rich burgundy pair of sandals? Absolutely!

Helen Kaminski

Matale Raffia Tote

Raffia totes don't have to be just for summer.

The Key Piece: Plaid Midi Skirt

A woman wearing a denim jacket, plaid skirt, and silver shoes

Style Tip: Just keep it simple with a denim jacket, and add a fun pop of color with your shoes.

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ZARA

Z1975 Short Denim Shirt

A simple denim cropped jacket is a must for fall.

Phillip Lim

Plaid Mix Draped Midi Skirt

I've been thinking about this skirt for a minute.

Maison Margiela

Tabi Ballerina Shoes

Telfar always comes through with the perfect fall bags.

The Key Piece: Plaid Button-Down

A woman wearing a plaid shirt, white tank top, tan shorts, and black thong sandals

Style Tip: If the weather permits, throw a plaid shirt over a plain white T-shirt or tank top with a pair of Bermuda shorts and you're good to go.