16 Plaid Skirt Outfits You'll Want to Copy ASAP

By Patrick Wilson

  At some point over the past year, we found yet another nostalgic item sneaking its way back into our wardrobe. Plaid skirts — both of the short, pleated variety and long, flowy designs — were popping up everywhere, inspiring us to get a little preppy. With social media as our guide, we felt an urge to style them with socks, loafers, and sweaters, creating looks that nailed both the schoolcore and light academia trends.

  Now, as fall rolls around once again, we're itching to try even more plaid skirt outfit ideas. Unsurprisingly, there's a ton of inspiration out there, since this piece is extremely versatile. Whether you're someone who enjoys the classics or are down for experimenting with new ways to wear old things, you'll find a ton of looks worth giving try, ahead.

  RELATED: 12 Plaid Outfit Ideas to Try This Fall

  The Schoolcore Way

  CREDIT: KIRSTIN SINCLAIR/GETTY IMAGES

  Add a T-shirt, scrunched-up socks, and a pair of sneakers or loafers and you've nailed the look.

  With a Blazer

  CREDIT: CHRISTIAN VIERIG/GETTY IMAGES

  It's a sleek layering choice, but a pair of boots and chain necklaces will keep your look from feeling too corporate.

  RELATED: 14 Blazer Outfit Ideas That Will Have You Saying 'Wait, Why Didn't I Think of That?'

  Grunge-Inspired

  CREDIT: JARED SISKIN/GETTY IMAGES

  Go ahead and throw on that graphic tee, a camo jacket, and combat boots for a fun punk combination.

  As Part of a Set

  CREDIT: CHRISTIAN VIERIG/GETTY IMAGES

  You can even spice up a suit by adding a plaid button-down in a similar colorway, testing out fall 2021's 3-piece outfit trend.

  With a Turtleneck

  CREDIT: EDWARD BERTHELOT/GETTY IMAGES

  When in doubt, this simple shirt option looks cute every time.

  With a Graphic Top

  CREDIT: EDWARD BERTHELOT/GETTY IMAGES

  If your plaid skirt is structured, this styling choice will help make it more casual and laid-back.

  RELATED: 12 Casual-Cute Outfits to Wear to a Baseball Game

  With a Polo

  CREDIT: CHRISTIAN VIERIG/GETTY IMAGES

  Two traditionally preppy pieces make for the perfect pairing.

  Mixing Prints

  While plaid skirts tend to feel classic and traditional, throwing on an extra print will transform your look into something unexpected and playful.

  Complete With Some Sneakers

  CREDIT: EDWARD BERTHELOT/GETTY IMAGES

  The more outrageous and colorful, the better.

  Monochromatic

  CREDIT: MELODIE JENG/GETTY IMAGES

  Even if it's not exact match, styling your skirt with a top, shoes, and accessories within the same or similar color families will create an outfit that really stands out.

  Colorblocked

  CREDIT: EDWARD BERTHELOT/GETTY IMAGES

  Get out of your comfort zone and combine pieces that feel like opposites. It's a trick that Patricia Field relies on when dreaming up iconic outfits for both Carrie Bradshaw and Emily in Paris.

  With a Sweatshirt

  CREDIT: EDWARD BERTHELOT/GETTY IMAGES

  Even if you're trading your jeans and joggers for a plaid skirt, you don't have to ditch all your comfy clothes. This baby pairs perfectly with solid hoodies and chunky boots, too.

  With a Vest

  CREDIT: CHRISTIAN VIERIG/GETTY IMAGES

  Another must-have item for 2021.

  RELATED: Wait, So This Is How Everyone Is Styling Vests Now?

  Styled For Chilly Days

  CREDIT: STREETSTYLESHOOTERS/GETTY IMAGES

  A plaid maxi skirt will act like a blanket for your legs, while longer-length boots provide some extra warmth. Complete the look with a leather jacket.

  Layered Over Pants

  CREDIT: CHRISTIAN VIERIG/GETTY IMAGES

  Yes, this Y2K trend is back and there's no better time to experiment.

  Paired With Standout Pieces

  CREDIT: CHRISTIAN VIERIG/GETTY IMAGES

  A leather blazer, fluffy slipper shoes — it's adding statement pieces like these that will help a plaid skirt and T-shirt combo really pop.