When it comes to wearing plaid, a few things might come to mind. A bagpipe blowing, kilt wearing Scotsman. A log-chopping, flapjack eating Lumberjack. A cattle-herding, horse riding Cowboy. A Doc Marten wearing, grunge loving Seattle-ite. Although plaid is always in style for outdoorsmen and those who wear kilts, it is the influence of the 1990s grunge era that has brought plaid back as fashionable gear. The current trend of plaid, however, is not just worn as plaid flannels shirts as was popular in the 90s. Today, designers are mad about plaid and incorporating this popular pattern in a variety of clothing items and accessories.
Plaid is made in a variety of colors with horizontal and vertical lines criss-crossing each other. Its origin is traced back to Scotland, when each Clan or family name had its very own distinguishing color and design of plaid called a tartan. Modern designers however get creative with alternating various colors and design for fashion-sake only. Plaid is a versatile pattern, ranging from conservative to bold. The following are ideas on how to incorporate plaid into your wardrobe, including the much loved traditional button-up flannel shirt.
Plaid on Bottom
Pants – Plaid patterns are typically more conservative on pants, using lighter colors and lines. Business casual slacks demonstrate how plaid is used more conservatively with lines that are closer together, and often times in a lighter color. Often pattern lines of grays and blues work well on a slack. There are instances, however, where you can make a more bold statement wearing plaid. Golf pants can be obnoxious but gets you plenty of notice on the rolling hills of green. Also, winter-sport pants, particularly snowboarding pants, certainly put the “rad” in plaid. Make a colorful splash of plaid against the all-white backdrop.
Shorts – Reminiscent of beach attire such as surfing or sunbathing in St. Tropez, plaid patterned shorts are always a popular choice. A plaid pattern in shorts captures the feeling of being in the tropics with more simple classic lines. Keep the cut relaxed to embody the relaxed environment. You can be fashionably beach-ready with the endless options of plaid shorts and surfers certainly can be spotted with more exaggerated patterns and colors. For a more street-wear look that can be found on skate-boarders, go for shorts that have a straight leg cut with a more traditional plaid pattern.
Plaid on Top
Jackets – A plaid patterned jacket makes for the perfect polished but casual look. You’ll be ready for a night out after work or for being a weekend warrior with a great plaid jacket. It pairs well with casual slacks or a great pair of denim jeans, as well as with dressier shoes or sneakers. For a more polished look, you can find a blazer cut that has a plaid pattern, and by layering a thin hoodie underneath will give it the edge associated with plaid. Casual light jackets or hoodies alone can be worn with a plaid pattern for a street-ready look that is both cool and in trend.
Shirts – A plaid shirt does not have to be limited to a flannel button-up style. Plaid shirts are so versatile that they can be paired with shorts, khakis, business casual slacks and denim jeans. Whether you are seeking to sport a sunny seasonal look with a short-sleeved version, or a tailored long sleeved version appropriate for business, a plaid shirt is a trend you can wear year round. For a classic, all-American look, choose a variety of short-sleeved plaid poplin shirt in a soft color and pattern. When going for a more classic long-sleeved plaid shirt, choose one that has a modern fitted cut. Roll up the sleeves for an added polished touch.
Plaid as an Accessory
Shoes – Plaid is not reserved solely for clothing. The pattern looks great on your feet! It adds a touch of panache to a conservative look and adds a fun edge to casual wear. Sneakers are a great place to play up the plaid pattern. You can choose a classic sneaker with a conservative plaid pattern. Plenty of street-wear sneakers have a great plaid pattern on them for an edgier look. A slip-on style offers an easy beach look to plaid. Even flip-flops are featured with a plaid pattern on the straps.
Hats – From head to toe, there are plenty of ways to work in plaid, including a great hat. Ball caps are perfect for running errands on weekends or heading out to a sports bar at night. Even though a ball cap is casual, it is still a great opportunity to incorporate style and get rid of your worn out, sweat-stained hats you may currently have in your closet. A newsboy or driver’s hat is a great way to dress up your wardrobe, looking great with a business casual look or even with a button-up shirt and denim jeans. Newsboys can be found with a traditional plaid or a patchwork plaid pattern.
Source:http://mensfashion.about.com/
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