7 Ways To Style Plaid This Fall

Plaid is an absolute essential when it comes to updating your fall wardrobe. From shirts to shoes, this print looks amazing on almost any item. As we work our way through fall, winter, and spring, it's time to learn how to style plaid in a way that is both fun and reflects our personal outfit preferences. Now, this doesn't mean conforming to any certain style or attire. It simply means figuring out which way the print works best for you.

Plaid is one of the most surprisingly versatile prints out there, even though it's often associated with only a couple seasons. Whether you're headed to a coffee date or a gallery opening, this print transcends most occasions. Plaid has the power to look dressy or casual. It all depends on styling. One of my favorite tips when it comes to wearing plaid is to keep everything in balance. By having either similar color tones or silhouettes, this print can flow into an outfit rather than clashing against other pieces. Seeing as plaid is such a bold print it has the tendency to overpower an outfit. However, if you wanting to mix and match patterns or textures, then try keeping the colors within the same color family to ultimately create a streamlined look. Looking for some outfit inspiration? Here are a few of my favorite ways to style plaid for fall.

1. Fall Attire

Red Plaid Shirt, $35, blackfive.com; Distressed Denim, $380, montaignemarket.com; Beige Booties, $565, dress-on.it; Balenciaga Bag, $2,125, balenciaga.com; Gold Earrings, $55, gilt.com; Michael Kors Ring, $145, zappos.com; Nars Lipstick, $32, bloomingdales.com; Circle Scarf, $1,585, marissacollection.com

Whether your going apple picking this season or heading out to grab a latte, this outfit is perfect for those who want to feel cozy, yet glamorous.

2. Glamorous Grunge

Plaid Dress, $289, navabi.us; Denim Jacket, $810, brownsfashion.com; Dr. Martens, $130, zappos.com; Fur Bag, $70, riverisland.com; Black Earrings, $3,350, scullyandscully.com; Black Sunglasses, $10, shopzerouv.com; Felt Hat, $41, simplybe.com

Plaid is the perfect pattern to express your inner grunge chic. Take the typical plaid dress up a notch by pairing it with a bulky denim jacket, and textured accessories.

3. Upper East Side

Plaid Top, $248, intermixonline.com; White Blazer, $25, shein.com; Plaid Skirt, $13, romwe.com; Red Pumps, $99, gilt.com; Cartier Bracelet, $13,495, truefacet.com; Tory Burch Purse, $595, nordstrom.com; Pearl Bracelet, $226, pearlparadise.com

Take schoolgirl chic to the boardroom by adding a structured jacket, and trendy heels.

4. Downtown Crossing

Camel Dress, $27, newlook.com; Plaid Coat, $39, shein.com; Tights, $18, modcloth.com; Leather Boots, $535, couture.zappos.com; Black and Gold Earrings, $344, yoox.com; Scarf, $345, liberty.co.uk; Nars Nail Polish, $20, bloomingdales.com

Amp up your everyday fall fashion by pairing your favorite shift dress with a plaid overcoat.

5. Flash Dance

Sequin Shirt, $30, warehouse.co.uk; Topshop Blazer, $87, nordstrom.com; Plaid Shorts, $121, theoutnet.com; Tights, $49, barneys.com; Balenciaga Shoes, $890, brownsfashion.com; Black Clutch, $50, c21stores.com

This outfit is for those who aren't afraid to mix textures and prints. Add a bit of sparkle to your workday outfit by pairing a sequin top with plaid shorts. Make the outfit more office appropriate by adding a chic blazer, and a simple pair of tights.

6. Cozy Days

Tartan Shawl, $13, romwe.com; Beige Sweater, $328, intermixonline.com; Suede Pants, $3,515, mytheresa.com; Ice Blue Pumps, $295, ifchic.com; Celine Bag, $1,805, 1stdibs.com; Gold Cuff, $650, lanecrawford.com

Take comfort to a whole new level with this chic outfit. From wool to suede, you'll love the feel of these beautiful pieces.

7. Out To Brunch

Plaid Shirt, $15, shein.com; Grey Coat, $59, chicwish.com; Faux Leather Jeans, $90, theoutnet.com; Suede Shoes, $340, rebelle.com; Fringe Tote, $917, ahalife.com; Ray Ban Sunglasses, $150, forwardbyelysewalker.com

Brunch has never looked so cool. Pair your favorite plaid shirt with leather leggings, and cool toned accessories to bring together your fashion-forward outfit.

And there you have it — fall fashion for every style, and every occasion. Oh, and many, many more reasons to go shopping.

Images: emily-mcclure/Polyvore