Out of my entire wardrobe, plaid shirts are definitely my favorite. Even if they are not stated as being trendy for a particular season, they always look nice and never go out of style. They come in a rainbow of hues, and are one of the most versatile pieces that you can own. I want to demonstrate how to style a plaid shirt without breaking the bank and with ultimate ease. I will prove to you that you can create an endless array of outfits with one, or a handful of, plaid shirts. I guarantee that you already have these pieces in your closet. Follow me into my walk-in closet for some fashion inspiration.
How to Style a Plaid Shirt
1) Buttoned up or as it comes
Sometimes we get super caught up in how to style a plaid shirt, that we forget it is ok to wear it how it comes from the store. You should always feel free to leave it buttoned up. You can spice up this typical look with a belt and some jewelry.
2) Unbuttoned with a shirt underneath
A plaid shirt with buttons presents a great opportunity to wear it unbuttoned with your favorite shirt underneath. This effortless, layered style definitely makes you seem like a fashion pro, but you know that you are utilizing basic pieces from your own closet.
3) As a tie-front
You can turn any button-down plaid shirt into a tie-front shirt in seconds. All you need to do is unbutton the last few buttons at the bottom. The more that you unbutton, the more material that you have to tie. With this tie-front look you can wear the rest of the shirt buttoned up or unbuttoned, which is your preference.
4) Tied around the waist
A plaid shirt does not need to be worn as an actual shirt to be stylish. Consider tying it around your waist as an accessory to your outfit. This classic option remains timeless.
5) Under a sweater
Have you ever wondered how to style a plaid shirt while staying warm and cozy? Layering it under a sweater is your answer. I recommend opting for a plaid shirt that is on the longer side, so that it hangs out from the bottom of your sweater. Notice how I am pairing a burgundy plaid shirt with a matching burgundy sweater.
6) As a layering piece
Plaid shirts are the ultimate layering weapon in your arsenal. You can wear them with cardigans and kimono’s for a cute, girly flair. This is also a great way to make your plaid shirt wearable for different seasons and temperatures.
7) Under a blazer
I 100% believe that you can bring plaid into your workplace. You can pair your favorite plaid shirt with a blazer for the ultimate lady boss vibes. Notice how a simple blazer elevates a dress-down shirt into something business appropriate in a flash.
8) Tucked into a skirt
When most people envision how to style a plaid shirt, they see a casual ensemble with jeans or leggings. By simply tucking it into a skirt, you can open up a whole new world of dress-up plaid. A cute pair of pumps and a necklace is all you need to complete my rendition below.
9) Over a dress
Another way to dress up your plaid is by wearing it over a dress. While I do have a tutorial on different ways to style your little black dress, here is an 11th option for you. A pro tip- this particular plaid shirt is a bit long and covers up more of the dress than what I like. I combat this by tying the plaid shirt, which makes it instantly shorter!
10) With a vest
I would be remiss in instructing you on how to style a plaid shirt if I did not mention vests! While faux fur is definitely my style, you can work with any type of vest, including denim or something more outerwear inspired. Bear in mind that those lovely plaid sleeves will be visible with this option, so wear a plaid shirt that color corresponds to your vest.
Conclusion
Never again will you scratch your head wondering how to style a plaid shirt. My 10 examples will jumpstart your creative engines into cultivating countless looks for your daily life. All of the looks in my inspirational list include pieces that you most likely have in your closet already. We love a good, thrifty style when we can re-use pieces time and time again! I personally love layering plaid shirts for a complex look without strenuous effort. Until next time, continue to let your true beauty shine.
What is your favorite way to style a plaid shirt?
View More of the Plaid Outfit Series:
| Plaid Pieces for Fall | Plaid Kimono Outfits | Plaid Tunic Outfits |
| Flannel Shirt Outfits for Fall | Preppy School Girl Outfits | Summer Plaid Outfits |
