How to Mix Plaid Patterns
Vary the Scale
The most important rule in pattern mixing is to use patterns of different scales. A large-scale plaid jacket over a small-scale check shirt works because the eye can distinguish them as separate patterns. Two patterns of similar scale compete and create visual confusion. A glen plaid suit with a thin-stripe shirt works; a glen plaid suit with a similar-scale tattersall shirt is harder to pull off.
Share a Color
When two patterns share at least one color, they read as intentionally coordinated rather than accidentally clashing. A navy windowpane suit with a blue-and-white striped shirt works because they share blue. A brown houndstooth jacket with a red tartan tie works if the houndstooth has warm tones that connect to the red.
Keep One Dominant
In any multi-pattern outfit, one pattern should be the focal point and the others should support it. The dominant pattern usually occupies the largest area (the jacket or suit). Supporting patterns should be smaller in scale and/or occupy less area (the shirt, tie, or pocket square).
Safe Combinations
- Plaid suit + striped shirt + solid tie — the classic starting point
- Plaid jacket + solid shirt + patterned tie — one plaid, one geometric
- Solid suit + plaid shirt + plaid tie (different scale) — plaid as accent only
- Large plaid jacket + small check shirt + solid trousers — the scale contrast does the work
Plaid on Plaid
Wearing two plaid patterns simultaneously is the hardest combination to pull off, but it's not impossible. The scale difference must be dramatic — a bold buffalo check shirt under a fine glen plaid jacket, for example. The color palettes should complement rather than compete. When in doubt, make one plaid very bold and the other very subtle.