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Trend Envy: Plaid-ittude

Everyone's favorite pattern gets sexy

By Yelena Moroz
Published: Mar 24, 2008

 

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Plaid invokes a lot of stereotypes. Wear a pleated plaid skirt and you’ve got a whole school girl theme going on; pair with jeans, and you might look reminiscent of a lumberjack; and if you rock plaid pants or a checkered baby-doll dress, you run the risk of looking like a grunge-era refugee.

But plaid can also be part of a classic, sophisticated wardrobe—if you fill your closet with staple pieces like blazers, just-above-the-knee skirts (no mini’s unless you’re the same age as Avril Lavigne) and timeless accessories like a Burberry bag. The trick lies in understanding the pattern and the garment’s fit. No one wants to aim for a cute librarian look and end up with Sean Connery’s kilt. 

The first rule is to size yourself up. If you’re a buxom gal, avoid large patterns. Even if that Marc by Marc Jacobs trench coat looks chic on the model, it might make you look blocky. Instead, opt for Tuleh inspired coats with a tighter pattern and a defined waist. Be especially scrutinous when buying plaid pants; you don’t want two huge squares highlighting your assets.


Mid-sized patterns work best, as Gucci and Pollini show this season. Whether you’re sporting a top or a dress, the pattern makes an otherwise basic piece pop. Dress it up with satiny fabric to give it extra dimension. Pastel prints works well for spring, just make sure not to clash with the tablecloth at a picnic.

 

Still unsure how to work it? Try on these multi-colored J.Crew flats—we guarantee they will match something in your closet. Whether you go all out or just accessorize, plaid will surely put you in check with fashion.  Pun intended.

 

 

 

Surviving New York City rent when sample sales happen every weekend has Yelena Moroz in a bind. But, hey, who said keeping up with fashion is easy?

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Submitted by sunny501 | Posted 53 days 7 hours |

So happy you didn't recommend plaid leggings... I couldn't bear it. http://jezebel.com/gossip/snap-judgment/lindsay-lohan-is-also-mad-for-plaid-really-mad-320975.php

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