In the pantheon of fashionable patterns, one would be forgiven for overlooking plaid. The print, which has long been considered a classic, has a range of connotations. Plaid can be preppy, when seen in suiting, or for the lumberjack in a flannel shirt. Plaid recalls heritage in the form of a Scottish kilt. But can plaid outfits be stylish and chic? This fall and winter, designers are saying yes.

Plaids, checks, and madras made appearances at many of our favorite brands. The Row ignited a plaid renaissance last season for SS25; Miu Miu introduced colorful plaid wool skirts this fall, and New York City-based designer Daniella Kallmeyer wrapped plaid shirting around black trousers for a subtle pattern pop; her spring collection re-envisioned the print in diaphanous form as a sheer maxi halter dress.

So, we can say it with confidence: plaid is back. And it’s everywhere in stores, as well, in a range of new shapes, like maxi skirts and soft dresses, that extend beyond the typical tropes. But how to wear it? Incorporating plaid into your wardrobe, while avoiding the aforementioned associations, just takes a bit of extra styling. For all of our tips and tricks for styling plaid outfits, check out our guide below.

Add Interest With a Plaid Trench Coat

Gap’s chic take on the plaid trench feels fresh and timeless, especially when worn with clean staples, like a perfect white long sleeve top, jeans, and pointed kitten heel.

Make it Minimalist

Pair a Maria McManus plaid shirt with a sleek maxi skirt and satin slides. For extra cool temperatures, slip a fitted black turtleneck underneath and top off with a flight jacket.

Go Tonal White Trousers With Brown Suede Extras

White trousers and a checked flannel shirt in similar light shades make for a sleek pairing, but they feel especially modern when contrasted with brown suede Mary Janes and a tote bag. Top off with a floral brown brooch.

Romanticize Plaid Pants With Pastels

TWP’s wide-leg trousers offset an oversized pink button-down. A car coat and white kicks emphasize the boyish silhouette.

Pair a Plaid Maxi Skirt With School Girl Staples

Plaid feels anything but twee in a sleek maxi skirt styled with preppy staples like loafers and socks and a turtleneck sweater.

Toughen Up a Feminine Midi With a Leather Jacket

Ami’s plaid dress feels ladylike, but less so when heavy extras like moto boots and a leather bomber ground it.