The World according to Plaid!

For many of us symbolise it all things hipster, where others (like me) can’t get enough of it…Plaid – it is one of the most universal patterns in modern fashion!

Designers adore the cross-hatched pattern and its simultaneously preppy and punk connotations. Today, its popularity is shining through many designers looks, though this pattern has an interesting history. In fact, it was actually banned at one point in time! Let’s take a brief, step back in time to the wonderful world of Plaid…

Plaid made its mark back in the 1500 and the textile started to “trend”. Come the 1700’s, it was banned. For all intents and purposes, it was associated with rebellion. After the defeat of Scottish forces, plaids were banned from Britain for a considerable amount of time.

Move into the 19th century, its popularity was gained in the USA, when Scottish migrants brought parts of their culture with them, including tartan fabric.

The 1800’s saw the birth of the plaid as we know it today. The Buffalo plaid - the classic red and black balanced plaid - attracted lumberjacks.

Plaid shirts became cemented as a workwear staple in the 1920’s. Jump to the 1970’s, it was literally seen everywhere from the shirts to suits, interiors and so much more! Come the 90’s and it became “grunge” style, worn ripped and distressed.

With so many different forms, plaid can and has been worn any way imaginable. Whatever the colour and context, this classic pattern has literally stood the test of time, hence why its versatility works in just about every wardrobe!

Trending today, it’s all about sophisticated plaid. In suiting and shirts as well as coats for winter, we will see many variations and hues, for both men and women. In addition for the ladies, dresses and skirts of course! If you’re not a fan of this icon, but want to inject some trend, then accessorise it with a scarf or hat during the cold months.

So, if you are a fan of plaid as I am, rest-assured that this classic pattern is here to stay and will never go out of style!

Maurizio ;-)