Plaid skirt outfits: 11 different ways to wear the look

What do preppy kids, grunge girlies and stylish Scots have in common? An everlasting love affair with plaid, of course. And now, thanks to Bottega Veneta, we're eager to get in on the action too.

Is plaid in style for 2023?

© Estrop

Plaid is nothing new, in fact, it has been around for centuries. But who could deny the power of creative director Matthieu Blazy's "perverse banality" SS23 runway show which saw Kate Moss clad in a powdery blue lumberjack shirt, looking as though she had spent all day hackings logs and lounging on a veranda? It's a total vibe – not us, that's for sure.

Plaid has also been doing the street style rounds, with many fashion insiders rocking up to shows in pleated versions of all lengths, many with dual-buckle detailing. Rich in history, plaid has a certain dependable cosiness about it, making it the perfect pattern to add into your current wardrobe.

What looks good with a plaid skirt?

Plaid and tartan skirts are hugely versatile, all we suggest is that you swerve dark V-neck jumpers and classic white shirts to avoid getting mistaken for a rebellious truant.

Otherwise, the world is your oyster – we love the sultry hint of a glossy knee or thigh-high boot through a side split, but if sports luxe is more your vibe, it's impossible to go wrong with a colourful retro-inspired trainer.

Which tops to wear with plaid skirts?

This summer, we can't get enough of the cool-girl waistcoat. Style yours with a pleated mini, or consider an oversized knitted vest for maximum preppy vibes. On the other hand, if something more heavy-duty is required – no shame in that – we are all about plush off-the-shoulder knits and blazers featuring plaid in a contrasting colour way.  

Wanting to give your current wardrobe a plaid-themed overhaul? Keep scrolling…

How we chose the pieces 

After combing through the street style galleries, we scoured the internet's top fashion sites, taking into account style, price point and quality, to help you recreate the fashion set-adored plaid look.

Hello! Fashion shares our favourite ways to wear a plaid skirt:

With a playful knit 

© Getty

With a utilitarian bomber

© Getty

For a failsafe entry into plaid, Burberry is your style saviour. Featuring the British label's instantly recognisable heritage check, this piece is crafted from wool and boasts a thick, double buckle waistband. Steeped in nostalgia, it would look amazing styled with an understated white tee and a classic tube-socks-and-loafers combo if you're feeling preppy.

With a bold open collar top 

© Getty

With a matching jacket 

© Getty

With sharp tailoring 

© Getty

With a beautiful, flattering cut, Maje's green and white midaxi skirt has a certain effortless appeal. And yet, if styled up a notch with a sharply tailored blazer and no-nonsense snakeskin boots, it would exude major polish.

With a cable-knit sweater and a belted coin purse 

© Getty

With an asymmetric knit and retro frames 

© Getty

With loungewear and combat boots 

© Getty

With tights and kitten heels 

© Getty

Created from a weighty wool-blend tweed, Alessandra Rich's pale blue mini skirt features inverted pleats and glitzy button detailing. With a low-rise waistband, the style feels suitably 90s, very contemporary Cher Horowitz. Plus, the label even offers a matching jacket for a maximum impact co-ord moment.

With chunky thigh-high boots 

© Getty

With a vintage-style jacket and Mary Janes 

© Getty

Like this story? Sign up to our Hello! Fashion newsletter to get your weekly 'Fashion Fix' delivered straight to your inbox.

HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.