History and High Heels: Perfectly Plaid

One of my favorite patterns of the fall and winter seasons is plaid. While plaid may have been reclaimed from the hipsters in recent times, the history of this weave is long and quite interesting.

Tartan is the original name of plaid (as we in the United States know it) and is a mix of multi-colored woven wool patterned into overlapping bands. Its origins lie with the Celtic pagan societies of Central Europe from 400 to 100 BC. Early forms of plaids were used in pre-Roman times, but this fell out of popularity until the mid to late-sixteenth century in Scotland. The patterns of each of these tartans were representative of each area and sometimes of specific clans in this country. These tartans became so iconic of Scottish upper-class society during the Jacobite revolts that in 1746 the English government forbade the wearing of plaid except for Highland regiments of the British Army. (This act was later repealed in 1782.) The popularity of tartans greatly increased throughout the whole British Isles after the royal visit of King George IV to Edinburgh in 1822. Scottish society quickly became fashionable as romanticized stories were published about their culture and tartan cloth soon was incorporated in ladies and men's dresswear.

Today, plaid has found new-found popularity with it's incorporation into fall fashion lines from J.Crew, Madewell, and Urban Outfitters. They have helped to make the mountain man look chic with some modern updates. I like to offset the inherent manliness of a plaid shirt with girlier pieces, such as a tulle skirt, sequined sweater, or statement necklaces. They help to balance out the whole outfit. Also, if you find a plaid shirt that is thin enough, try piling it on with other shirts, cardigans, or sweaters. This will help keep you warm this winter, while making you look super fashion forward! One more tip, try pairing this wonderful print with other prints, such as leopard print or polka dots. Don't let the outfit become overwhelmed, but a little hint of contrast can be super fun!