A fall and winter staple, flannel is just one of those things no wardrobe should be without — kind of like a lived-in pair of boyfriend jeans, a perfectly tailored blazer and trusty tote bag. But let’s be real for a second — a standard button-down shirt isn’t going to win you any CFDA Fashion Awards, at least not styled alongside everyday denim and all-weather boots (though we have to admit, the combo works). To achieve sartorial glory while rockin’ a little plaid, you need to think outside the box, girl. We’re talking patent leather, embroidered booties and sleek modern jewelry — RN essentials that are guaranteed to usher your ensemble into It girl-approved territory. Below, we’ve pulled together four Insta-worthy ensembles that put plaid first. Consider this the style lesson you didn’t know you needed (you can thank us later).
A suede mini skirt and botanical booties? We’re so there. Get rugged flannel runway-ready with a button-front mini and streamlined statement accessories, like studded geometric hoops and embroidered boots. For extra oomph, invest in a felt fedora and an ankle-grazing coat that brings the drama like none other.
Madewell Flannel Zip-Front Popover Shirt in McKinney Plaid ($80) + Mango Suede Skirt ($80), Zara Embroidered Detail Ankle Boots ($119), Jessie Harris Track Ball Knocker Earring ($308)
HOW TO ROCK A plaid JUMPSUIT
Enter the ah-mazing plaid jumpsuit you never knew you needed. Beyond fulfilling all of your one-and-done dressing dreams, it’s a welcome alternative to your tired button-down-and-denim routine. Spice things up for after-work drinks or a casual dinner date with bae by adding suede lace-up pumps and a quicksilver cocktail ring to the mix. For those warmer winter nights (or whenever you need a break from your go-to blazer), layer on a field jacket and oversized scarf, then let the good vibes flow.
Madewell Indigo Plaid Jumpsuit ($138) + Sam Edelman Helaine Lace Up Pumps ($130), Pamela Love Beaumont Ring in Sterling Silver ($150), J.Crew Downtown Field Jacket ($148), Zara College Style Scarf ($26)
HOW TO ROCK A plaid blazer
Your nine-to-five shouldn’t be where your style sensibilities go to die. Add snoozy separates to your fashion blacklist — you won’t be held down by dress codes anymore! Amp up your on-the-job style factor 10 notches by tucking a striped collarless shirt into patent pants, then top off with a check blazer FTW. Own your ensemble like the girlboss you are by rounding out the look with high-shine silver ankle boots and glam ear jackets that will take you from the boardroom to the bar in a snap.
Topshop Check Blazer ($125) + & Other Stories Striped Cotton Shirt ($85), H&M Patent Pants ($60), Zara Laminated Mid Heel Ankle Boots ($70), Marchesa Ear Jackets ($55)
HOW TO ROCK FLANNEL GLOVES
Frozen digits are so not chic, which is why this fabulous pair of flannel gloves is key. Give them the glam treatment for an upcoming GNO or holiday shindig, popping them on with a metallic midi dress, faux fur coat and shimmery box clutch that slays. Weave in playful pops of color with platform kicks and a perfectly painted pout, then proceed to make jaws drop.
Zara Soft Contrast Fabric Gloves ($23) + COS Long Metallic Coated Dress ($175), Mango Faux Fur Coat ($150), Milly Slay Box Clutch ($295), NARS Audacious Lipstick ($32)
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