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We all have items of clothing we fall back to when we’re feeling less than inspired. For some, it’s leggings; for others, it’s their trusty pair of blue jeans. There are those that rely on tops like jerseys or graphic tees, and then there are the ones who simply cannot live without their plaid shirts.
Plaid shirts are amazing in so many different ways. They’re functional and give you that extra warmth when you need it. They’re easy to wear, down to earth, and pair so well with your basics. But like anything else in your wardrobe, your go-to flannel outfit can look tired and overplayed. No matter how lazy you’re feeling, you never want your ensemble to be drab. Let your flannel elevate your outfit, not drag it down.
As creatures of habit, we tend to stick to what we know. When we find that perfect flannel outfit, we’ll wear it almost the exact same way on days we don’t want to put much thought into the clothes on our backs. It’s time that we welcomed some change into our plaid habits.
When it comes to reworking the classics, many have the impression that effort is needed to revamp certain styles. But when did effortless ever mean boring? With a little change here and there, anyone can easily step up their plaid game. You don’t need a personal stylist to show you the ropes.
So what can you do to up your flannel game? Here are a few suggestions:
1. Wear it over an all-black outfit
Not a huge fan of vibrant hue but want to insert a little color into your dark uniform? Add a bit of life to head-to-toe black with an unbuttoned plaid shirt. It makes the getup less intimidating for those who haven’t found their groove with all-black outfits just yet.
2. Tie it around your waist
What was considered kind of dorky on ‘90s school kids is now a style you definitely want to use on your lazy days. Throw it over any outfit to give it a grunge twist, and don’t restrict yourself to wardrobe basics. If you thought that a simple black slip was too sexy to wear outside of the bedroom, think again! Tied flannel with the slip offers that garage band edge that could be enhanced with some moto boots and a biker jacket.
Obviously, slips aren’t the only dresses to experiment with. Play with different silhouettes, although the plaid does look best when wrapped around something sheath.
3. Tuck it into a skater mini
While plaid shirts are the least feminine of textiles and silhouettes, the contrast works surprisingly well with skater minis. Remember to streamline the outfit by matching similar hues the shirt and the skirt.
4. Match it with leather leggings
An evening staple, leather leggings automatically become daytime appropriate with the help of plaid. This pairing will have you looking and feeling cool.
5. Treat it like a cardigan
Got an oversized flannel shirt? Layer it as an open cardigan over some denim shorts and a crop top, if you feel like covering up. Tights would also look great with this outfit.
6. Wear it as an underlayer on cooler days
Plaid shirts are often used as a cardigan and not enough as an inner layer. The pattern is perfect for peeking out underneath plain cardigans or sweaters, so give your flannel a preppy upgrade.
7. Mix it with another print
Mixing and matching prints can be a little scary since some can clash and appear tacky. Plaid, on the other hand, is one of the friendlier patterns that can be matched with pin stripes, polka dots, and even animal print. Leopard print shoes, for example, can be worn with skinny cropped jeans and a tucked in plaid shirt.
8. Tuck it into black slacks
Instantly make your plaid work appropriate with cropped black slacks and plaid with rolled up sleeves. Don’t forget to finish it off with some beautiful black heels, such as stilettos or pumps!
Got some tips of your own to add? Share your plaid styling hacks below in the comments!
