Timeless Tartan

On the 2024 fall fashion runways, almost everyone was pretty in plaid for cold-weather wear. 

Designer Chloé favored the full-length wool coat in neutral-shaded tartan with a turtleneck collar. Anna Sui put a vintage ’70s twist on the preppy plaid skirt and vest set, paired with fun patterned accents. Antonio Marras showcased a picnic-style black and white plaid full-length dress with a matching heel. Christian Dior kept it preppy and chic with wool plaid sets and jackets. Michael Kors was all business with a blazer and pencil skirt plaid set. 

But what of it translates to everyday wear and styling? No matter your fashion genre, local fashion expert Michelle Torregrosa said tartan classics work for everyone. 

“It goes across every single type of style,” said Torregrosa, owner of Divas & Devils House of Style. “It’s just a staple that has always been there, but I feel like it’s an elevated staple.”

Photo by Alicia Osborne

While Torregrosa attests that plaid is timeless, she said people often shy away from it as everyday wear. Plaid, she said, can act as your neutral, pairing with solids or adding a pop of color with accessories. 

Photo by Alicia Osborne

Torregrosa turns to actor Drew Barrymore for her favorite plaid style. Reminiscent of the talk show host’s go-to fit for her couch chats, this look calls for a plaid trouser paired with a sleek button-up blouse, either neutral with small design accents like florals on the cuff or with a full print for fun, funky vibes, and accessorized with a silky bow or floral accent at the neck. A matching plaid vest to button up over the blouse can pull the look together. 

But when it comes to staples, the blazer wins the timeless tartan title. 

Just make sure you keep in mind the rule of balance. An oversized plaid blazer paired with a fitted long-sleeve shirt can go with a loose trouser. Or a more fitted blazer can be paired with a loose blouse or baggy band tee tucked into fitted skinny or straight-leg jeans. 

“Everything with me, in my store, is about that balance,” she said. 

To take plaid to punk heights, pair the oversized plaid blazer with fishnet stockings, a jean skirt or shorts, Doc Marten-style boots and a fitted tee. A plaid flannel can work for a punk style or even tame a dressy look from cocktail to casual. 

Photo by Alicia Osborne

“Everyone needs a flannel,” Torregrosa said. “I have, like, five of them in my closet.”

When styling a feminine look with menswear styles like vintage plaid jackets, blazers and flannels, Torregrosa recommends creating balance by adding hints of “ultra-feminine” with accents like a lace blouse or tank, a bow or flower at the neck, heels or other accessories. 

Photo by Alicia Osborne

She also recommends buying vintage blazers to find quality pieces that can last you for decades more to come. But don’t let the inevitable shoulder pad steer you away. Often, shoulder pads are easy to remove and can be sewn back in later, if desired. And, Torregrosa said, the ’80s broad-shoulder look can work for a bold, edgy style.

“It just gives that more structured look, and some people don’t like that,” she said. “I’ll try almost anything with fashion. But sometimes, I cut them out. Sometimes, I love them and keep them.”

As for the plaid trench coat, Torregrosa said, never buckle up. The belt should stay untied with the coat worn open or even draped over the shoulders. A pro tip: Torregrosa suggested tying the loose belt in a knot on one side so it doesn’t slip through the loops. 

“So you can see your entire outfit,” she explained. “It’s an accessory.”

Pair a lacy tank or blouse underneath to add that feminine hint. You can also layer with cardigans, sweaters and tops in different plaids, prints, styles or colors. 

When it comes to matching sets — vest and skirt, vest and pant, jacket and pant, coat and skirt, etc. — the look is definitely not runway exclusive. 

“I’m someone who loves a matching set,” she said, but noted that some may feel hesitant. 

The trick is all in styling versus wearing. Accessories are your best friend. But also, confidence is key. 

“I think it’s owning it,” Torregrosa said. “Just owning it, feeling good in it and not questioning it.”

Break out that timeless tartan blazer, and don’t wait to rock that perfect plaid set you can never seem to find the right occasion for. 

“Every day is an occasion,” she said. “You’re alive, you bought this, you love it and you feel good in it.” 

So, wear it!