Somewhere between a plaid cardigan, a white collar and a pleated skirt, an outfit can start to look like it has a dress code. Which is a shame, because a dark plaid knit is one of the few things you can put on with the black jeans you wore yesterday and feel like you got dressed for an entirely different day.
The cardigan that sold me on the idea is Good American’s forest plaid. The checks do plenty on their own, especially next to black denim or a silk skirt that catches the light. The short, button-front shape also means it can do the job of a top one day and a little jacket the next. Here are four plaid sweater outfits worth trying before you talk yourself into buying another sweater.
Planning your fall wardrobe? Don’t miss the Fall Wardrobe Checklist it’s the go-to list for layering like a pro without overthinking your outfits. Grab the checklist here.
1. With black barrel jeans for a Saturday that turns into dinner
Wear the cardigan buttoned as a top with black barrel jeans and pointed ankle boots. I like how the curve in the jeans changes the whole mood of the plaid. There’s a bit of shape to the outfit even if everything below the sweater is black. If you end up staying out, a chain shoulder bag gives you somewhere to put your keys without bringing the big tote to the table.
Good American
the jacquard cardigan
$188.00
BAYEAS
Katia Barrel-Leg Jeans
$88
Walmart
Faux Croc Chain Shoulder Bag
$32
2. With a silk skirt for Friendsgiving
A black silk midi and a chunky-looking knit belong together at a dinner where everyone says ‘come casual’ and somebody inevitably shows up in heels. Wear the cardigan closed, add tall black boots and keep the jewelry to whatever you wear every day. The shine on the skirt does enough. For a dinner that’s a little more dressed up, see our Thanksgiving outfit ideas.
Amazon
Plaid Jackets Cardigan
$49.99
Quince
100% Washable Silk Skirt
$69.90
Walmart
Faux Croc Flat Tall Boots
$55
3. With black trousers for an office day
The forest plaid is a good stand-in for a blazer on a day when you still want to look sharp. Leave the cardigan open over a black tank and wear it with black trousers and a slim loafer. Keeping the top and trousers the same color gives the checks a clean backdrop. If the office is cold enough to keep the cardigan buttoned all day, a small hoop is all the neckline needs.
Barbour
Harleigh Argyle Cardigan
$170.00
Everlane
The Everywhere Pant
$88
4. Over a black slip dress when the restaurant is freezing
Put the cardigan over the black slip dress you usually reserve for warm weather. Close one button at the middle so you can still see the neckline of the dress, then wear it with tall boots. A short plaid cardigan feels right here because you still get that long sweep of the dress below it. This is also the outfit where I’d carry the chain bag and let the hardware show.
Barbour
Stevie Tartan Wool Blend Sweater
$130.00
ASTR the Label
Abrianna Lace Trim Satin Midi Dress
$138.00
Walmart
Scoop Faux Croc Flat Tall Boots
$55
