Plaid Shirts Are Back: 4 Ways To Style Them Now
Okay, we need to stop thinking that just because a piece of clothing isn’t a block colour, it can’t be part of our capsule wardrobe. Prints can be just as easy to style as your bog standard pair of jeans or white tee. You just need a few staple outfits to get you started. I think everyone’s got a plaid shirt stashed away somewhere. And if you can’t find one, check your dad’s wardrobe – that’s where I steal mine from. And if that’s no good, check the high street because there’s plenty around that are affordable and versatile. And the plaid shirt can hardly be called a trend piece – you can add it to a collection of timeless staples, think trench coats and leather jackets. Pieces we can keep coming back to again and again – great for layering, and something that can be worn through the seasons…
Here are 4 easy ways to style a plaid shirt this Autumn/Winter:
1. Layers upon layers
Let’s start simple. The easiest way to integrate a plaid shirt into your wardrobe is to use it as a layering piece. Perfect for any weather too. You can layer your plaid shirt over a turtleneck or t-shirt and favourite pair of jeans for a casual, effortless outfit. Just pop your favourite jacket (preferably leather) over the top and you’re good to go. The key is to have it popping out so we can see all those lovely layers. Oh, and what I love about this formula is that you can adapt it. For those of you that prefer an oversized look, or the girlies that want something a little more snatched, this can suit you all! Just add a pair of smart black boots and you can take this outfit from day to night, too.
2. First over, now under!
Okay… you’ve tried layering it over your outfit. Now let’s try putting it under! A great way to add some dimension to your look. Especially if you’re wearing a baggy shirt and baggy bottoms, why not pop a neutral coloured knit vest over the top. Pair with a nice pair or barrel leg trousers and a boot. Perfection!
3. As a belt
Just because it’s a shirt, doesn’t mean it has to be used as one. This seems to be THE way to style a plaid shirt right now. Think 90s grunge. Iris Law is modelling a bit of a bolder look here with the double prints, but start simple if this seems daunting. Think black top, black satin skirt or trousers, and use the shirt to add a pop of colour. Add your favourite jacket and have the shirt peeking out underneath. Sorted. Once you’ve tried this you won’t look back. Have some fun with it! Try using any shirt, t-shirt, or jumper as a belt and you’ll never look at your clothes in the same way again.
4. With a belt
I love this look. Chunky belts are circling back. Imagine turning up to the work Christmas party in this! Dreamy. Again, simplify this if there’s too much going on here for you. It doesn’t need to be fancy. Pop an oversized shirt over your favourite dress or skirt, button it up and cinch in the waist with a big chunky belt. It will immediately take a mediocre outfit to a high-fashion, statement look. Perfect for any festive shenanigans you might have going on.
So now that you know how to style a plaid shirt for 2025, check out another current trend, the Goth revival. Catch up on it here.
By Molly Hedges