From its humble beginnings to its constant reference by mega fashion brands, plaid returns to the forefront of fashion as if it never left. The pattern is modernised, the angles softer and the distinct red replaced with softer colors, we explore street style and runway inspiration on how to wear the season’s trending textile.
By Dmitri Ruwan
3.1 Phillip Lim AW15, Backstage
Plaid is derived from the woven textile that is tartan and has been around since the 19th century, yet it is still relevant today thanks to the likes of designers such as Alexander McQueen and Vivienne Westwood who’ve used it as a platform for all things gloriously rebellious, youthful and ultimately chic. A/W15 sees a continued use of plaid on the runways and a multitude of ways to wear it, from its finely constructed work wear look via Adeam’s dresses to hand woven overcoats at Chanel and off the runway, plaid is seen accentuating the elongated bodies of off-duty models such as Kendall Jenner and Jourdan Dunn. While street style gives us a glimpse into how plaid has moved from a pattern associated solely with rock ‘n’ roll to a newfound elegance worn gracefully wrapped around waists, peeking from underneath structured coats or simply tied around the strap of a Fendi baguette.
