Let’s be honest—there’s something undeniably festive about tartan plaid. It’s classic, it’s timeless, and when styled right, it’s absolutely chic. Whether you prefer the traditional red and green palette or you’re ready to branch out into unexpected hues (lavender plaid, anyone?), tartan is one of those prints that can take you from holiday brunch to evening cocktails without missing a beat.
Today I’m sharing six ways to incorporate tartan into your holiday wardrobe—because this print deserves more than just a cameo on a Christmas throw pillow. 🎄
✨ What You’ll Find in This Post
- 🎄 6 Tartan Outfit Ideas — From plaid pants to kilt skirts, styled for the holidays
- ✨ Beth’s Style Tips — How to make tartan look chic, not costume-y
- 🛍️ Shop the Look — Direct links for every outfit
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions — Your tartan styling questions, answered
1. Red Coat + Plaid Pants: Make a Statement
If you want to go bold this season, this is how you do it. Pairing red tartan pants with a matching red coat creates a head-turning look that’s sophisticated, not costume-y. The key is grounding all that color with black basics—a cashmere crewneck layered over a crisp white button-down keeps things polished. Add black patent pumps and a quilted bag, and you’ve got an outfit that works for everything from a holiday luncheon to shopping at your favorite boutique.
✨Beth’s Style Tip: Don’t be afraid to match your plaid to your outerwear—picking up one of the colors in the tartan creates instant coordination without looking too matchy-matchy.
2. Black Blazer + Plaid Pants: Evening Elegance
Same plaid pants, completely different vibe. These Sophia Plaid Pants are almost out of stock, but Talbots has a great alternate version with the Southampton Pants in Cider Plaid. For evening events, swap the red coat for a sleek black blazer and add a lace-trimmed camisole for a touch of romance. This is holiday party dressing at its finest—the tartan brings the festive spirit while the black blazer keeps everything grounded and sophisticated.
The real magic here is in the accessories. Red suede pumps with a crystal buckle from Frances Valentine echo the rich tones in the plaid, while rhinestone tassel earrings catch the light beautifully. A statement clutch ties the whole look together.
Shop Beth’s Look
✨Beth’s Style Tip: One pair of plaid pants can anchor multiple holiday outfits—invest in a quality pair and style them in different ways throughout the season.
3. Lavender Plaid Blazer: Beyond the Expected
Here’s a little secret: holiday plaid doesn’t have to be red, green, black, or white. This lavender and gray plaid blazer, from Talbots, is proof that you can embrace the tartan trend while keeping things fresh and unexpected. It’s still festive—just in a more subtle, sophisticated way.
Layered over a black denim shirt and paired with straight-leg jeans, this look is perfect for casual holiday gatherings, tree trimming parties, or even a festive lunch date. The multi-strand pearls dress it up just enough, while the pointed-toe kitten heel boots keep it comfortable and practical.
✨Beth’s Style Tip: If traditional holiday colors feel too expected, look for plaid in unexpected palettes like lavender, blush, or even camel. You’ll still get that classic tartan texture without blending into the decorations. 💜
4. Classic Plaid Shirt: Effortlessly Festive
Sometimes the simplest approach is the most effective. A classic Stewart tartan shirt tucked into rich red corduroy pants is festive, comfortable, and perfect for those more casual holiday moments—think tree decorating, cookie baking, or running holiday errands in style.
The deep greens, reds, and navy of the traditional tartan pattern pair beautifully with the warmth of corduroy. It’s a cozy combination that still looks intentional and put-together. Drape a black tweed lady jacket over your shoulders and you’re ready for anything the season brings.
Shop Kelly’s Look
✨Beth’s Style Tip: When wearing a busy plaid shirt, keep the bottom half simple. A solid color pant in one of the plaid’s hues creates visual balance.
5. Plaid Kilt Skirt: A Nod to Tradition
There’s something wonderfully heritage-inspired about a proper kilt skirt. This pleated wool number in navy and red tartan feels both traditional and thoroughly modern when styled with a cozy button-neck sweater in coordinating navy – both pieces are from Boden, a favorite spot to shop for UK-inspired pieces.
The monochromatic approach with the sweater lets the beautiful pleats and pattern of the skirt take center stage. Keep accessories simple—black boots, a structured satchel, and your favorite oversized sunglasses are all you need.
✨Beth’s Style Tip: A kilt skirt with genuine pleating has beautiful movement—look for quality wool that holds its shape season after season.
6. Plaid A-Line Skirt: Sophisticated Holiday Style
For a more polished take on the tartan skirt, an A-line silhouette is incredibly flattering and versatile. This bold red plaid version makes a statement on its own, so the styling strategy is simple: let black do the heavy lifting. My exact skirt is sold out, but take a look at this Wool Tartan Skirt from Boden, or this Jolly Tartan Skirt from Talbots.
A cashmere turtleneck, leather blazer, opaque tights, and knee-high boots create a sleek, elongated silhouette that’s perfect for holiday parties, dinners, or any occasion that calls for something a little more dressed up. The combination of textures—soft cashmere, smooth leather, cozy wool—makes this outfit interesting without being fussy.
Shop Beth’s Look
✨Beth’s Style Tip: When your skirt is the star, keep everything else in one color family. Head-to-toe black creates a chic backdrop that lets the tartan shine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tartan Outfits for the Holidays
Q: Can women over 50 wear plaid without looking frumpy?
A: Absolutely! The key is in the styling. Choose well-fitted pieces, balance bold plaid with solid colors, and invest in quality fabrics. Structured blazers, sleek boots, and sophisticated accessories elevate tartan from casual to chic.
Q: What colors pair best with traditional red tartan?
A: Black is always a winning choice—it grounds the pattern and looks elegant. Navy, cream, and forest green also complement red tartan beautifully. For a monochromatic look, try matching one of the colors within the plaid itself.
Q: How do I wear plaid pants to a holiday party?
A: Pair them with a black blazer and a silk or lace camisole for instant evening elegance. Add statement earrings, heels, and a clutch to complete the look. The plaid pants become the focal point while everything else stays sleek and simple.
Q: Are there alternatives to red and green holiday plaid?
A: Yes! Look for tartan in lavender, blush, camel, or even black and white. These non-traditional options still capture the tartan texture and pattern while feeling fresh and unexpected for the season.
Q: What’s the difference between a kilt skirt and an A-line plaid skirt?
A: A kilt skirt features traditional pleating and often has a wrap-style closure with buckles or pins, giving it that authentic Scottish heritage feel. An A-line skirt has a more streamlined, fitted waist that flares out gradually—it’s typically more structured and contemporary.
More Tartan to Love
Shop the Tartan Collection
Straight Ankle Cuff Pants – Black Watch Plaid | Tartan Cropped Straight Pants | Plaid Mockneck Sweater | Italian Blanket Scarf
Vineyard Vines Sequin Frame Clutch | Lauren Ralph Lauren Satchel | Portia Bow Flats | Vivienne Check Midi Shirtdress
Cassie Check Tea Dress | Calder Pants in Stadium Plaid | Sloane Embellished Mules – Black Watch Plaid | Stamford Wool-Blend Blazer
Closing Thoughts
Tartan Outfits for the Holidays
Tartan plaid is one of those patterns that just gets better with age—much like us, wouldn’t you say? Whether you go bold with head-to-toe red or keep things understated with an unexpected lavender blazer, there’s a way to make this classic print work for your personal style.
The holidays are the perfect time to embrace pattern, color, and a little festive spirit. So pull out that tartan, style it with confidence, and enjoy the season in style. 🎄
For More Holiday Inspiration, be sure to read:
- Casual Holiday Outfits for Women Over 50
- Best Winter Dresses for Women Over 50
- Oscar’s Hot Toddy & Bacon-Wrapped Dates
- Grey Hair Glow-Up: Make Your Silver Strands Look 10 Years Younger!
- Last-Minute Beauty Stocking Stuffers Under $25
🎁 Holiday Gift Card Raffle — Win a $100 Amazon Gift Card
To celebrate the season — and to thank you for being here — I’m hosting a Holiday Gift Card Raffle!
December’s prize:
✨ A $100 Amazon Gift Card ✨
How to enter:
Just leave a comment on today’s post and share what you loved about this post or what you love about SaaCA. Boom — you’re entered!
Winner announced:
📅 January 1
I can’t wait to read your comments!
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