17 Plaid Skirt Outfits You'll Want to Copy ASAP

No matter your aesthetic, there's room in your closet for a plaid skirt. Over the years, plaid has appeared in a wide range of aesthetics, from prep to punk and beyond. This year, plaid skirts are experiencing yet another renaissance, with celebs like Dua Lipa and Rita Ora wearing plaid skirt outfits that blur the lines between trends and genres.

Despite the notable versatility of plaid skirts, it can be easy to fall into a styling rut when it comes to this back-to-school staple. We're not knocking the classic preppy approach to plaid skirt styling, but there are so many exciting ways to wear this wardrobe essential. Whether the vibe you're going for is more understated elegance or moody intrigue, you can bet there's a plaid skirt outfit to get you there. Whether you opt for a skirt that's mini or maxi length, with or without pleats, in a vibrant shade or a neutral one, will depend on the mood and occasion. 

If you're in need of inspiration, you're sure to find some among our 17 favorite plaid skirt outfit ideas ahead.

The Schoolcore Way

If you're tired of plaid miniskirts, you're going to love this fresh take on the schoolcore trend. Instead of a blazer, tie, and knee socks, take a page out of Bella Hadid's street style book and opt for a longer hemline with a collegiate-style rugby shirt or pullover, crew socks, and sneakers instead.

With a Turtleneck

When in doubt, this simple — and neck-warming — top looks cute every time. Plus, a basic turtleneck gives you ample room to play around with statement accessories, from bold belts to trending sunnies.

A Fully Plaid 'Fit

A matching plaid-on-plaid ensemble is not for the faint of heart, but there's no denying the power of a fully plaid outfit. Instead of heels or loafers, opt for a pair of sneakers to keep this look feeling modern.

With a Blazer

Adding a blazer is definitely a sleek layering choice. However, to keep this look from feeling too corporate, a graphic tee, boots, and chain are encouraged.

Mix Prints

You might be tempted to stick to solids when putting together a plaid skirt outfit, but we suggest throwing caution to the wind and mixing prints. If you're nervous about your 'fit looking busy, opt for a skirt that features several plaids instead.

Try Tiered

Thanks to the punk, grunge, and preppy aesthetics of the '90s and aughts, we're used to seeing plaid skirts with knee-length or mini hemlines, but that doesn't mean you should sleep on tiered maxi skirts. Worn with two-tone loafers and a basic crop top, a tiered plaid skirt is both breezy and chic.

A Plaid Skirt Set

Cher Horowitz, who? Enter your Clueless era with this throwback plaid skirt outfit. A quilted handbag is, like, totally the right accessory for this look.

Sneak in Statement Tights

If you're looking for ways to jazz up a plaid midi skirt, this outfit's tailor-made for you. Adding a pair of animal print or patterned tights adds a layer of bold fashion magic to an otherwise matching look. Best of all, a longer hemline means this look is daring yet subtle.

With a Graphic Tee

A printed tee keeps a pencil skirt silhouette more casual and laidback. Don't worry too much about finding a graphic tee that matches your skirt. What makes this outfit pop is its contrast.

With a Polo

Two traditionally preppy pieces make for the perfect pairing. When accessorizing, we recommend grabbing retro pieces like Mary Janes and a vintage handbag.

Classic and Colorful

Talk about hot fuzz. A bouclé jacket à la Chanel is one of the most iconic pieces in fashion. It also happens to be perfection when paired with a plaid skirt. To add even more oomph to this look, swap out the traditional two-tone or tweed bouclé top for a bright solid like crimson or fuchsia.

Statement-Making Neutrals

It may seem counterintuitive, but one of the most stand-out plaid skirt outfits is one made up entirely of neutral pieces. Since red and green plaids are so common, a plaid skirt in a creamy beige, nude, or off-white is a game-changer.

Clash Colors

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 the cast of Emily in Paris.

Punk Rock Plaid

Plaid is a staple in the punk fashion scene, and you can channel your inner anarchist rock star with a pleated skirt in classic red or green. Accessories are key here: A pair of combat or platform boots and a studded belt or bag bring the whole look together.

With a Vest

Vests are having a moment, so why not nail two — or more — trends with one look? A plaid skirt worn with a denim cut-off vest and cowboy boots blends coastal cowgirl, normcore, and '90s aesthetics in one cohesive outfit.

Styled for Chilly Days

A wool plaid skirt is a cozy winter weather staple. Add a dash of quiet luxury by adding polished black boots, a leather jacket, and a sleek black tote bag.

Layered Over Pants

Another yesteryear trend the fashion world can't seem to kick is the skirt and pants combo. We're not mad at this daring outfit, but we recommend keeping the overall color palette cohesive so the 'fit feels intentional instead of thrown together.