Plaid Skirts Are Back. Here Are 7 Easy Ways To Style Them and Look Cool

There seems to be a renaissance of all types of skirts in the fashion world, from denim to pencil skirts and now plaid skirts. We’ve all seen so many different types of skirts on our screens, from movies to music videos to runways, and it’s clear that the plaid skirt is still very much loved.

Plaid has been around for way longer than most people think. The pattern we now wear as skirts, shirts, and jackets actually started in Scotland centuries ago. Back then, it was part of traditional Scottish clothing called tartan. Each tartan pattern represented a specific clan or family, so your outfit literally showed where you came from.

In the 18th century, after a major Scottish uprising, the British government actually banned tartan for a while because it was seen as a symbol of rebellion. That’s partly why the pattern carries such a strong cultural and emotional meaning today, as it was actually a form of identity.

Fast-forward to the 20th century, and tartan moved from Scotland to global pop culture. Punk fashion in the 70s embraced plaid as a symbol of rebellion with brands like Vivienne Westwood and early rock bands. By the 90s, films like Clueless made plaid skirts iconic in a whole new way, giving them that preppy-meets-cool vibe that still sticks today.

Now, plaid is everywhere, from streetwear, runways, school uniforms, TikTok fits… It has become one of those timeless prints that can look edgy, classy, or nostalgic depending on how you style it. No matter the era, plaid always finds a way back into the spotlight.

I also think the plaid skirt is having a moment in fashion also shows that we’re leaning towards bolder, more expressive styles. 

When I think of plaid skirts, I think of rockstars, rebels, school-girl aesthetics, punk history, and honestly… a bit of “main character” energy. There are so many easy ways to style them. Here’s your friendly, no-stress guide.

This is the cosy-girl look. A plaid skirt with a chunky knit jumper instantly makes you look like you’re on a Pinterest board. Go for neutrals if you want a calm vibe, or pick a colour from the skirt and match your knit to it. Add ankle boots or simple trainers, and you’re good to go.

This combo works especially well in cooler weather as it’s warm, stylish, and doesn’t feel like you tried too hard.

You can’t go wrong with a crisp white shirt. It gives that clean, slightly preppy look that feels smart but not stiff. You can tuck it in for a neater vibe or leave it slightly loose for something more relaxed.

Throw on a pair of loafers or Mary Janes, and you’ll look like you’re heading to a cute brunch or a campus lecture.

If you want to mix prints but still keep things simple, stripes are your best friend. A striped long-sleeve or tee adds a fun twist, and because stripes are basically a neutral print, they don’t clash with the plaid.

It gives French-girl energy but in a laid-back way. Add simple flats, Converse, or any casual shoe you love.

READ ALSO: The Lazy Girl’s Guide to Looking Sexy In A Slip Dress

This combo will make you look like you just stepped out of 90s films like Clueless, Friends, and The Nanny, because this was practically their signature look. A fitted black top with stockings instantly pulls the whole outfit together.

If your skirt has bold colours like red or yellow, the black will tone things down and balance the look. Finish with chunky boots, platform loafers or even ballet flats.

Street-style lovers, this one is for you. A denim jacket adds softness, while a leather jacket gives off full “cool girl” energy. Both work well with plaid because the textures contrast nicely.

It’s also the easiest way to make your outfit look intentional, even if you literally just threw things together.

If you want to make a statement and have your real fashion-girl moment, try matching your plaid skirt with another plaid piece. It doesn’t need to match perfectly. Plaid-on-plaid works best when the colours complement each other, even if the patterns are different sizes.

This is a confident look, so wear it like you mean it.

READ ALSO: Gingham Is Having a Moment: Why This Timeless Print Belongs In Your Wardrobe 

Yes, you read that right, skirt-over-trousers are officially back, and plaid skirts make this trend even better because the print adds dimension. Pair a mini plaid skirt over straight-leg jeans for a Y2K vibe that feels modern.

Add a simple top, trainers or boots, and embrace the playful energy.

The beauty of plaid skirts is that they’re versatile without being boring. They can be soft, edgy, preppy, punk, or girly, depending on how you style them. 

If you’re dressing up for class, a day out, or just posting a cute Instagram picture, there’s always a way to make plaid feel fresh and very you.