Mad about plaid!

Sorry for the cheesy headline, but this year the beginning of fall means the beginning of wearing plaid! I am really into plaids this season, and I've found a few easy pieces that will make even those who fear this fabric to see it in a new light. You might even decide to incorporate it into your wardrobe.

Plaid doesn't have to mean huge prints and bright colors. My favorite plaids include subtle shades and smaller-sized prints. Let's take a plaid button-down to start. Make sure the fabric is not too heavy, or you'll end up more of a lumpy lumberjack. Choose a color and print you like, then pair it with a wide, brown belt and dark, boot-leg jeans. Voila! C'est chic lumberjack!

Incorporate plaid into your work wardrobe, without looking like you're headed back to middle school, by wearing plaid in shades of brown, black and grey, or other muted colors. Use a plaid blouse to give a black suit some excitement, or if you're feeling fiesty, find a plaid blazer to wear with a neutral-colored ensemble. Make sure you keep a good balance between the plaid print and the rest of your outfit. Safest bet? Wear completely solid neutrals (gray, black, white brown, blue, etc.) when the plaid covers at least half of your body (which, as a rule, is probably all it should cover.)

Here are a few tops that might ease you into the world of plaid. Need more of a baby step? How about a plaid scarf or handbag? These accents can add a bit of pizazz to jeans and a t-shirt or a little black dress. Let me know if you find any terrific pieces of plaid!!