Plaid Returns Each Fall, Yet These 5 Outfits Give It a Completely New Look.

      You know those memes depicting the fall girl in her riding boots and cable-knit sweater, holding a pumpkin spice latte? That's totally me. I'm obsessed with fall and its fashion, especially classic colors like brown, burgundy, and—naturally—plaid. These playful checked designs reappear every autumn and winter, and there's a good reason they're so loved. However, that doesn't mean fashion enthusiasts can't discover innovative ways to style plaid that feel fresh and relevant—and trust me, they certainly do. This season, I'm drawing inspiration from some stylish girls on how to look fabulous in a plaid jacket, plaid skirt, plaid dress, and (of course) a plaid button-down. Let me guide you through it.

      The key is to opt for light-colored plaid: it's unexpected and adds depth to the browns, dark blues, and grays of the rest of the outfit. Moreover, the contrasting trim is absolutely stunning and ties in with the bucket bag, giving the entire look a cohesive feel.

      Heaven Mayhem

      Esme Sunglasses

      RAILS

      Alps Cashmere Silk Scarf

      Banana Republic Factory

      Plaid Boucle Cropped Jacket

      Matisse

      Vancouver Bucket Bag

      J.Crew

      Nipped Straight Jeans

      Mansur Gavriel

      Ruched Loafers

      I regret to inform you that this particular skirt from Miu Miu is sold out everywhere, but I've found a similarly vibrant style that's also significantly more affordable. Additionally, while the exact coat is only up for grabs in Norway, Atorie has a very comparable style available for you.

      Madewell

      Demi Skinny Medium Hoop Earrings

      Free People

      Nova Long Sleeve T-Shirt

      Phoebe Dynevor and Emma Watson are both fans of plaid dresses this year, making it clear that it's a truly stylish choice. I adore the subtle yet universally chic color combination here.

      Madewell

      Single-Breasted Topcoat in Suede

      Jenny Bird

      Medium Staple Hoops

      Jenny Bird

      Monogram Necklace

      Urban Outfitters

      UO Kaelli Plaid Square Neck Cami Mini Dress

      & Other Stories

      Teardrop Wrap Ring

      Quince

      Italian Leather Pouch Crossbody Clutch in Cream

      Calzedonia

      Soft Comfort 30 Denier Microfiber Tights

      Falke

      Active Breeze Roll Top Socks

      Thursday Boots

      Penny Shoes

      I wouldn't fault you for associating plaid shirts with Pinterest style from around 2014, but I'm also quite pleased to show you that a simple yet good plaid shirt paired with jeans remains a fantastic outfit in 2025 and 2026.

      Pela Case

      Honey iPhone 16 Pro Case

      Chanel

      Black Ceramic Diamond Ultra Wide Band Ring

      H&M

      Jacquard-Knit Sweater

      Our Legacy

      Dime Shirt Idaho Flannel Check

      Acne Studios

      Misubi Mini Shoulder Bag

      Re/done

      90s High-Rise Rigid Straight Jeans

      Free People

      Ruffle Sock Pack

      Shopbop

      Favorite Daughter Lola Croc Loafers

      Reflecting on this outfit, it’s not overly groundbreaking—it’s profoundly classic. It serves as a reminder that you should never hesitate to embrace timeless silhouettes and color combinations when it comes to your fall wardrobe.

      Velasca

      Selvole Turtleneck Sweater

      By Adina Eden

      Chunky Chain Link Toggle Bracelet

      Radley

      The Belsize Small Flapover Shoulder Bag

      Eileen Fisher

      Stretch Wool Crepe Wide-Leg Trousers

      Calzedonia

      Short Socks With Trimmed Cuffs

      Velasca

      Maester Penny Loafers