Polka dots may have ruled the summer, but for fall you can expect to see a different print taking the helm. And fortunately, something you almost definitely already have in your wardrobe right now. I’m of course talking about the ultimate classic, old-school plaid. It’s the autumnal staple that never really goes out of style but will be literally everywhere in 2025.

From flannel shirts to pleated plaid skirts, the checkered print is considered by plenty of stylists and fashionistas (myself included) to be more of a neutral than a print, akin to stripes or leopard spots. And while there’s nothing wrong with styling plaid much the same ways you did last fall—perhaps a blazer worn with straight-leg jeans with loafers, or a shacket layered over a sweater dress with knee-high boots—there are some more sartorially advanced options to try. Read on for my top five tips for how to wear plaid like a fashion editor in 2025, plus one outfit you’re bound to see popping up on your Instagram, but that I highly advise skipping this season.

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5 Ways to Style Plaid Like a Fashion Editor in 2025