If You Buy One Thing for Fall, Make Sure It's Plaid
1/8When the weather cools down, there’s one thing we crave even more than candy corn and pumpkin spice lattés—lots and lots of plaid! Although this classic pattern has preppy roots, it’s prominence in the punk and grunge movements have given it a rebellious edge. Nowadays, these versatile checks are a major wardrobe go-to, no matter what your scene is. It’s super versatile, which means it plays well with other prints and can deliver both polished sophistication and street-savvy casual with ease. And whether you’re going for girly sweetness or tomboy cool, chic checks will rev up any outfit in a snap.
From Little Mix’s coordinating threads to Cara Delevingne’s statement skinny jeans, stylish celebs have made it clear that tartan is as trendier than ever this season. Click through to check out their rad takes on plaid.
2/8<a href="http://teenvogue.com/about/julianne-hough/">Julianne Hough's</a> Chic Checks
Beloved by lumberjacks and the style set alike, buffalo plaid is a major fall favorite—it's got a cozy, campfire-ready vibe, and the traditional red and black color combo pairs effortlessly with autumn layers. Top it off with a leather moto jacket for instant tomboy-chic.
3/8<a href="http://teenvogue.com/about/hailee-steinfeld/">Hailee Steinfeld's</a> Unexpected Accent
Hailee rocked the red carpet at Teen Vogue’s Young Hollywood party with one way cool accessory—a flannel shirt tied around her sleek black dress. Sporting shaggy bangs atop long, wavy locks, she put a fresh, fashion-forward spin on grunge.
4/8<a href="http://teenvogue.com/about/alexa-chung/">Alexa Chung's</a> Petite Print
On a smaller scale, this tough-girl staple becomes sweet and sophisticated. Alexa topped her tartan frock with a ladylike bouclé jacket for extra uptown flair.
5/8<a href="http://teenvogue.com/about/liu-wen/">Liu Wen's</a> Tartan Topper
How do you make a summery frock into fall fare in seconds flat? Throw on a button-down, and tie at the waist for an easy layered outfit.
6/8<a href="http://teenvogue.com/about/little-mix/">Little Mix</a> Goes Retro
Hello, ’90s! These stylish ladies rocked cute crop tops and statement-making checks for on-trend ensembles with a throwback vibe.
7/8<a href="http://teenvogue.com/about/cara-delevingne/">Cara Delevingne's</a> Punky Pants
Think plaid bottoms are strictly for school uniforms? Think again! On a pair of skinny jeans or high-waisted trousers, they're totally cool and a little daring, too. Rock 'em with a vintage band tee, or wear with a clean, classic top like Cara's for a more polished take.
8/8<a href="http://teenvogue.com/about/charli-xcx/">Charli XCX</a> Doubles Up
One of the raddest things about plaid is how easily it plays with similar patterns. For major style points, layer tartan with gingham—as long as they share similar color palettes, the look is a cinch to pull off.
