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 spring, designers are saying yes.

Vogue’s Favorite Plaid Pieces

Plaids, checks, and madras made appearances at many of our favorite brands. At The Row, the geometric pattern appeared in bold reds and blues. We also saw it at Bottega Veneta, where bright, pastel plaids came in the form of jackets and oversized shirts. And in New York, designer Danielle Kallmeyer smartly paired draped plaids with khaki pants and ballerina flats.

So, we can say it with confidence: plaid is back. And it’s back 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 styling plaid outfits, check out our guide below.

Pair a Plaid Maxi Skirt With School Girl Staples

In the form of a sleek maxi skirt, plaid feels anything but twee, so it’s easy to style with preppy staples like loafers, socks, and a knit polo.

Add Interest With a Plaid Overcoat

Bottega Veneta’s chic take on the typical plaid overcoat feels fresh and current, especially when worn with clean staples, like a perfect white tank, jeans, and thong sandals.

Make it Minimalist

In light, low-contrast shades, and a drape-y silhouette, plaid fits in perfectly with the go-to minimalist combo of a sleek maxi skirt and sandals.

Contrast Plaid and Khaki With Shiny Black Extras

Khaki and plaid are a naturally preppy pairing, but they feel utterly modern when contrasted with a luxe black ballerina and silver buckle belt.

Pair Plaid Pants With Pastels

Acne’s baggy barrel pants offset an oversized pink button down. A barn jacket and white kicks emphasize the boyish silhouette.

Toughen Up a Feminine Plaid Dress

Loewe’s shiny plaid dress feels girly, but less so when it’s anchored by heavy extras like combat boots and a leather bomber. Silver accents add extra edge.

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