PLAID PLEASE

It's usually around this time of year when plaid fashions start showing up thanks, perhaps, to the festive feeling in the air and its association with woollen fabrics and colder weather. But whether you're a fan of checks all the time or restrict yourself to wearing the motif in November and December, you're in luck because it's a key trend this season, one that designers such as Gucci, Miu Miu, Stella Mccartney, Dior and Dries Van Noten got on board with. From accessories to ready-to-wear, Rebecca Tay discovers five plaid pieces that feel perfect right now.

CROSSOVER STYLE

We're not entirely sure when the term “shacket” entered our fashion vocabulary — perhaps just shortly after dad jeans became common style vernacular? — but we're into it, and especially this Tna Prospect style. Made from cotton flannel, it's thick enough — and features a super cosy shearling lining — to wear as a jacket right now, yet not so bulky that it can't also work as a shirt under a puffer coat or parka when it's freezing in a few months' time.

Aritzia, aritzia.com | $168

LOAF AROUND

Plaid shoes may not seem like the most practical thing in the world, but you'd be surprised how easy it is to wear these Flavia 5 loafers. Covered in plaid pony hair with leather trims, they're a smart pairing whether you're wearing jeans and a T-shirt or tailored trousers and a classic white button-down shirt. Add a slick of lipstick for a polished finish.

Gravity Pope, gravitypope.com | $240

BUDGET BUY

Even if you're not so sure about a plaid skirt, trust us when we say that a checked skirt is a no-brainer, especially one with an easy-to-wear, easy-to-match hue like this olive green and beige version. Add a cream cable-knit sweater, brown or cream slouchy knee-high or ankle boots and you're good to go.

H&M, hm.com | $39.99

HAND-HELD DEVICE

This cute little pouch by OMW is oh so simple, we wish we'd come up with the idea for it ourselves. Oh, and it's a bit kinder on the planet, too, thanks to the fact that it's handmade here in Vancouver using deadstock or upcycled fabric. And since the days when we needed to lug everything around with us are long gone (hello, WFH forever), we also love that it's big enough for just the essentials: phone, lip gloss, and keys.

One of a Few, oneofafew.com | $250

SHIRT STORY

Whether you opt for blouson sleeves, a high, prim neckline, a scalloped collar, or all of the above, one thing's for sure: we're (still) really into Victoriana-inspired details. If you're looking for a shirt that ticks all these boxes, and can be dressed up and down, consider this smocked shirt. It's smart, it's versatile and it looks great with jeans or a sparkly skirt for a look that's a bit more snazzy. J.crew, jcrew.com | $131.50