Although plaid pants made an appearance on the runways this year, not every guy is ready to make such a bold fashion statement. Some men like the look of plaid but prefer it in bite-sized chunks to add a bit of lumberjack masculinity rather than commit to a trend that may be obscure next year.
If you’re looking for ways to add plaid to your wardrobe without looking like a circus clown, consider these tips.
- Try a variety of pieces. A flannel coat for winter, a checked shirt for spring or a heavy flannel shirt for fall can all become staple pieces in your wardrobe for years to come.
- Don’t button the top button. You’ll end up looking like you’re in a gang or trying to pull off a hipster tribute.
- Try different weights. Not all plaids are created equal, allowing you to wear a lighter, smaller checkers even in the heat of summer. Match the heft and durability of your fabrics so you don’t come across as imbalanced.
- Choose colors that are appropriate for the season. Creams, browns and rust are good for fall, while gray, red and dark green are perfect for winter. Summer and spring will likely require you to stick with whites, pastels and small checkers in blue or tan.
- Match your tailoring. If you have tailored dress pants, don’t waste them by juxtaposing them against a loose-fitting flannel.
- Don’t confuse casual with ratty. A loose-fitting plaid shirt over a plain white t-shirt is fine for casual Friday, but don’t wear anything with holes or missing buttons just because you’re attached to the memories of the shirt.
- Don’t tie your flannel around your waist. That’s a grunge look and you’re a grown man. If you think you’re going to get hot later, wear a nice t-shirt under your flannel.
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