As you’ll soon come to find, plaid is one of the best motifs for print mixing (more on that later). When in doubt, Maguire recommends throwing on another plaid piece—or two, or three. “I love mixing multiple plaids,” she tells InStyle. “The key is to keep them within the same color family to ensure the look feels cohesive and balanced. This way, the different patterns complement each other without clashing.”

Like virtually every other print in existence (polka dots, nautical stripes, zebra print, etc.), plaid also pairs incredibly well with leopard spots. Stack the two iconic patterns for a look that feels unexpected and effortlessly cool.

2024 will long be remembered as the year that tweed, once again, became trendy. After a decade-long hiatus, the rich-girl favorite is back in fashion’s crosshairs, with lady jackets and pleated skirts making their overdue return. The weave is virtually seasonless, but according to Maguire, it’s particularly appropriate for spring weather. “The texture and warmth make it a versatile, elegant choice for the season,” she says. “It adds a luxurious vibe, whether as a chic topper or a stylish mini skirt.”

Those looking for a little plaid inspiration need look no further than Burberry’s runways. Their taupe-based Burberry Check is one of fashion’s most recognizable motifs and is always a good point of reference for styling similar pieces. Its neutral colorway makes the print even more versatile than your typical red tartan. 

Plaid and denim are a fall favorite, yes, but don’t underestimate their springtime styling capabilities. Style a checked lady jacket with baggy trousers for a laid-back look or mash-up a plaid blazer with a jean mini skirt. There’s really no wrong way to style them together—that’s the beauty of this timeless combo.  

Even the most minimalist among us can still pull off a loud plaid. Just shop for smaller accessories in the checked print, over pieces with more surface area, like dresses or suits. “Plaid can serve as the statement pattern for your wardrobe, with solids built around it to help balance out the look,” Maguire says.

Playing homage to the pattern’s academic undertones is a great way to integrate it into your wardrobe (a styling trick Taylor Swift has long been a proponent of). Pair it up with other traditional schoolgirl favorites, such as loafers, pleated skirts, and argyle sweaters for a sartorial combination that feels authentic.

Delve into the fashion archives of any pop-punk princess (Olivia Rodrigo, Hayley Williams, Avril Lavigne, etc.) and you’ll quickly learn: that leather and plaid are a fashion combo for the ages. Work a leather belt, bag, and/or boots into your all-plaid look to give the overall aesthetic a glam-rock feel. 

According to Maguire, bright plaid layers are especially useful for in-between-season dressing. “For transitional weather, opt for knits and outerwear,” she says. “You can layer a classic plaid topcoat over your denim.”

If my own personal closet is any indicator (and I’d wager it is) camo print is having a renaissance. I’ve been styling mine with moto jackets and leopard print, but plaid is next on my list of trends to try. 

Though checker print isn’t technically a plaid—unlike gingham, tartan, and buffalo checks—the two are cut from the same cloth (figuratively speaking). With similar grid-style prints, these rocker favorites look just as great worn together, as they do apart.