Calling plaid a trend is a little like saying denim is having a moment [1]. Jeans will always be a thing, just like plaid always seems to be in our wardrobe rotation. Still, admittedly, there's an uptick in checks and tartans lately. The traditional prints may not be groundbreaking, but the styling is. With nods to our middle school uniforms, Cher Horowitz [2], and the iconic Burberry plaid, the sartorially with-it women of the world are giving us new ways to bring the pattern into 2018. Some rely on subtlety, others layer on the look in multiple pieces and colours. In each of these 32 cases, the effect is refreshed. So, while the print is nothing new, you can certainly sell your friends on the new-ish appeal it has when worn with dad sneakers, rainbow-bright hues, and many, many mixed prints.

Here, discover the ways to upgrade your plaid game.

Work plaid on plaid with a coordinating set for a ladylike effect.

Remix a traditional plaid with crisp white pieces for a fresh effect.

Give plaid pants a cool upgrade with an off-the-shoulder top and stylish trainers.

Embrace the classic pattern in a bright new colourway.

Toss on a plaid coat over everything for a statement-making outfit.

Lean into a full-blown plaid look with a bold coat and checked pumps.

Dress up a plaid mini with a trench coat and button-down blouse for classic vibes.

For a small dose, play a pair of plaid shoes off of an outfit of mixed prints.

In a boxy cut, a plaid suit takes on a more contemporary feel.

Ground a floaty top and shorts with a plaid blazer for Autumn.

Give a plaid pattern the boho treatment in a flowing silhouette; then add a suede bag to drive it home.

A chic plaid blazer lends baggy jeans some polish.

A plaid miniskirt feels fashion-forward and nostalgic all at once.

Keep things classic in a plaid button-down and trousers.

Top a silky slip dress with a plaid blazer for the office.

Mix plaid patterns when you pair larger checks with a classic kind of tartan plaid.

Keep the rest of your look simple, but make a statement with a plaid coat.

Top denim with a plaid coat for a Autumn-feeling transitional style.

A plaid pencil skirt and plaid button-down might feel busy, but stark white boots temper the busy prints

Give an updated take on the old school uniform with a pleated plaid skirt and varsity jacket.

Pare down bold plaid pants with a clean white overcoat.

Give traditional tartan a 2018 spin with a contemporary colour palette

Rework the plaid skirt from schoolgirl to fashion girl with dad trainers.

A plaid crop top feels a little less exposed with a coordinating jacket on top.

Plaid in a subtle grey palette is easy for the office.

Checks and stripes were made for wearing together — just embrace bold, contrasting colours.

A plaid shirt dress is the perfect everyday Autumn uniform.

A plaid blazer really ties together casual pieces like biker shorts.

Belt a plaid blazer over white denim to take your light jeans into Autumn and Winter.

Let a plaid button-down warm up a Summer day dress.

Add interest to an all-black look with cool plaid outerwear.

Stick to a neutral palette for an understated play on the print.