Just like classic denim has been re-invented through history and come to represent different eras, checks, plaids or ginghams are given a pretty much similar classic status. It always has a vintage appeal but a modern cut or color or layering transforms the piece each season.
It is a unisex pattern and has a special place in every wardrobe be it in the form of a plaid coat, shirt or pants.
How wear checks & plaids, for women
Recently designers have been using this fall pattern into spring too and it has become wearable all year around. From wearing it with separates or full dresses and adding the right accessories– Read our guide to wear this classic in the most fashion appropriate way.
If you are bold enough, wear head to toe checks, combining two colors. You can even contrast the sizes of checks and plaids in your separates. If not take a more everyday approach like below.
One Plaid at a time
Wearing this classic for the first time? Tread slow and explore the possibilities. Buy an investment piece which can be paired up with your existing wardrobe.
A plaid skirt
- A plaid skirt in the 70s was more like a high school version which flares up and finishes above the knee and which was actually a short pleated to appear as skirt. A modern version is fitted mini or a high-waist pencil skirt.
- If you choose cotton plaids pair them up for summer with a white tank top, if yours is a fitted mini. In case it is a high waist pencil skirt tuck in a tank top or even a crisp shirt.
- If you choose a winter fabric you can wear tights underneath and a pair of boots.
- Another good silhouette is the skater skirt. It looks good paired with kitten heels and a boat neck knitted sweater. You can play up the design details of the top just remember to take a solid neutral color.
Plaid Shorts / Hot Pants
- A pair of vintage plaid hot pants are casual yet chic. Wear them to college or to a café and channel a laid-back attitude.
- For fall when the chill in the air just starts, pair it up with long sleeve tee or light weight cashmere and a beret or a fitted cap.
- Finish the look with a pair of bright sneakers and ankle length socks.
Checkered tunic
- A checkered in tunic in a pink or blue with a full sleeve styling is a quick way to get dressed.
- Roll up the sleeves; if they have a tab already then it looks even better. Pair up with leggings finishing off at the calves.
- Accessorize with a thick waist belt matching your leggings and wear a pair of flat ballerinas. You can tie your hair in a bun or leave them open naturally wavy or curly.
Chic Checkered Ensembles
Checkered shirt dress
- Shirt dresses are forever chic. Most fashionistas wear them in solid colors. But why conform? Wear one in a classic blue checks
- Choose to brighten up with accessories – a pair of tangerine heels and a matching thick acetate bangle.
- Don’t think of matching the bag though, as too much co-ordination can kill the look. Choose a complimenting bright color instead like bright pink.
- Tie your hair up in bun, sweep your bangs to one side and show off a long neck.
Gingham Romper
- Fashion’s love affair with gingham started with the famous Brigitte Bardot who wore a checkered pink dress, designed by Jacques Esterel, at her wedding.
- If you desire a cute and playful look then a gingham romper should be your choice.
- Wear one to a brunch with hair straight and a classic pair of black pumps. And while you are on it maybe bake a cupcake or two for your BFFs too eh?
Checkered Dresses
- Speaking of checkered garments, a neatly cut dress is all that could take to bring out a lady in you who is chic enough for checks.
- You can choose a dress with a nipping seam at the waist and some overlap details too. A boat neck or one with a band collar and V neckline can look amazing. The key is for the dress to look tailored. Pair up with classic black peep toes, a wrist watch and a gingham hairband too, just to prove the point!
- Another option is a slip dress, but well tailored. You could try one in classic black and white gingham or experiment illusion graphic like we have in the picture. It sure adds edginess and all you need to do afterwards is paint your nails in a contrast color like red or pink and tame your tresses to appear neat and presentable. This style is specially recommended to focus on your gorgeous collarbones.
Checks and plaids the country way
- Since checks and plaids have Scottish and historic roots, why not do a modern day vintage silhouette?
- Try a maxi with a tie neckline, slightly puffed sleeves and a frilled panel at bottom. These little details and the color combination of red with black and blue stripes all shout vintage. To complete curl up your hair and don’t leave without your hat. The look is great when heading out to a picninc.
- Try a more modern version with a black and white color combination and a shorter dress length. Details like a smocked waist a, a collar with a placket all the way to the hem, a gathered bottom panel and puffy half sleeves all add to the charm of your look. Complete with a pair of classic black pumps and a matching shoulder bag. Add color to the look with tangerine lips and don’t forget to straighten your tresses.
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