I have a love-hate relationship with plaid. I know exactly when I love plaid, and when I hate it. So when I saw Maddie Aglow in the Bayside courtyard, I knew she had done it right. What is the key, you ask? Layers. Layering pieces over and under plaid and mixing styles can help take away the "I'm a farmer boy!" look.
The easiest way to layer is to start small and pull out certain colors in the plaid for other pieces of your outfit. For example, if your plaid is a mixture of plum and teal with a hint of lavender, start with a lavender tank top underneath. Pair your plum plaid with a lighter wash jean to break up all the dark colors. Then, layer a solid colored cardigan over the plaid, and a jacket or blazer to top it off (depending on what season it decides to be for the day)!
For shoes, I am loving Maddie's riding boots. They are neutral, so the color focus is on the plaid, but still a bold statement and much more fashion forward than a pair of Ugg boots - as comfortable as they may be. I also love to sweeten up the plaid with a pair of cute girly flats, as well.
Lastly, add accessories in the cool color family. If you don't have any, not to worry! Mix and match neutrals, or, if you are feeling extra daring, throw in a contrasting color for fun—the easiest way to do this is through a shoe or a scarf. Here's a fashion challenge for you: pick up (at least) one of the colors from the plaid in a patterned scarf, and rock an outfit with mixed patterns. Just make sure the patterns are simple and the mix looks intentional, so we don't think you got dressed in the dark!
If the plaid garment doesn't come fitted, cinch it with a belt, or wear it loose over leggings. If it still feels a little boyish or drab, do what I always do and over-accessorize! Headbands, scarves, bangles, and a beautifully amazing studded pocketbook like Maddie's will make a drab plaid fab!
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