The popularity of plaid in the fashion landscape has spanned many decades. The traditional pattern was originally known and manufactured as tartan, and used to identify and distinguish clans. Tartan was also worn in battle and used by Scottish rebels in the 17th century as a sort of unifier against the rule of the empire. The storied history of plaid has certainly only added to the popularity of the motif. In the ‘70s, plaid was used on ruffled, high collar shirts. In the ‘80s and Clueless era ‘90s it was all about preppy plaid – miniskirts and dresses that closely resembled the outfits worn by private school girls. Of course, the ‘90s were also a big decade for plaid with the grunge movement in both the fashion and music industry. A baggy plaid shirt, ripped up jeans and beat up old tee was a uniform for many – and arguably, still is today.

These days, plaid is weaving its way back into fashion in unexpected ways. Plaid maxi skirts have been a big trend of late, often designed in a way to pay homage to traditional kilts. Everything from pants, to denim, to crop tops are getting decked out with plaid – and the good news is, this is one trend that will probably never go out of style.

1. Free People Cameron Plaid Maxi Skirt, $148
2. Nasty Gal Plaid Drape Jacket, $129
3. For Love and Lemons Billy Sweater, $125
4. Topshop Sleeveless Stud Check Shirt, $45
5. Michael Kors Leather Bodice Dress, $1,398, available at Neiman Marcus
6. Vivienne Westwood Anglomania Dress, $938, available at FarFetch

By: Zoe Alexandra Torell, Toronto

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