Plaid to Meet You

Plaid has been seen everywhere lately and it is no wonder this classic pattern has made a comeback... or an appearance? I have had mixed feelings about this current trend until now. The holidays have motivated me to find plaid garments that do not remind me of the holiday season and the decorations that follow. Flannel has always been a tricky material, unless it is in a sleeping bag, and plaid has always seemed so festive in a not-so-fashion-friendly way. My recent shopping ventures have definitely opened my eyes to the possibilities that plaid brings to the table. Here are some of my tips for trying out this holiday favorite:

1.) Make sure it fits: Most plaid garments are your typical long-sleeved button-up. The fit with this style of top varies greatly among brands and price points. To make sure you are purchasing what is right for you and your figure, try on different brands and sizes until you come across the one that you feel comfortable in. This top does not have to be form-fitting and can be very fun over-sized (but remember that getting it way too big will look sloppy and definitely not fashion-forward).

2.) Step outside of the box: Since there are so many plaid tops out there, keep an eye out for a different garment. Try some plaid tights or socks, pair them with a great set of riding boots and a short skirt or dress! Or if you are not so keen on showing off your legs this season, search for a versatile scarf. Scarves are so hot and have proven their popularity throughout the past few seasons. Maybe you are in the mood for a headband. Whatever you choose to wear, make sure you do so with confidence and have fun!

3.) Dress it up: Dresses are perfect any time of year but a plaid dress can be just as tricky as a plaid flannel shirt. I have nightmares of Charlotte from Sex and the City during the Spring Fling for her first husband's Scottish heritage. Do not repeat her mistake (head-to-toe red, Christmas-y plaid). The best way to work a plaid dress into your wardrobe is to keep it short and simple. By sticking with a shorter length you can distract attention away from the somewhat overwhelming design. By wearing a blazer over a plaid dress, you can break up the pattern in a very trendy way.

4.) Make it budget-friendly: Make me proud and put your frugalista knowledge to the test. Urban Outfitters always has great sale items and they have plenty of options to choose from. Gap has stocked up on their plaid favorites for the holidays and you can save 10% on your purchase every Tuesday if you have a Gap (or Old Navy, Banana Republic) credit card. Nordstrom is perfect because they have so many different vendors which means too many choices! But be careful because some of their plaid garments can get a little bit pricey.

As always, keep an open mind about the current trend. There are tons of ways to work with your budget while staying up-to-date with this straight-from-the-sleeping bag trend.

*Image: https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzLHe4kJLk2mvXJvtnSGB_s7mH2umawD7SfeXz6dZvSf1nqiTMCRf27vXeYD18SG5821BGYR8RCqdCCnX6ei0w_IrnVaIX10FVxhbF1gOQnf-mGkYCgamHI9gEl6rneoiiVG4Fl2Ose8Q/s400/2008-fall-fashion-10.jpg