Plaid is a timeless pattern that pairs well with a variety of design styles. This visually pleasing print is characterized by its combination of vertical and horizontal lines that create square or rectangular grids. Whether your style leans more classic or contemporary, there are plenty of types of plaid to choose from. Below, we go over the different plaid types and what makes each one so distinct.

Tip!

Want to learn more about what plaid is, how it's made, and how to style this versatile pattern? Read our guide What Is Plaid? for more.

Types of Plaid

Buffalo Check: Often with a red-and-white or black-and-white color palette, buffalo check uses thick lines to create a large-scale, symmetrical plaid pattern. This type of plaid is most popular in rustic or farmhouse aesthetics.

Tartan: Tartan uses horizontal and vertical stripes in varying widths to create complex rectangular patterns. These prints often combine dark colors like forest green, navy, black, or maroon with lighter hues like golden yellow or beige. Many unique tartan patterns can be traced to specific Scottish clans, giving this type of plaid a historical feel.

Windowpane: Like its name would suggest, this type of plaid has a large-scale grid design that resembles a windowpane. Its clean-lined and modern appearance makes it a versatile addition to almost any style.

Houndstooth: This type of plaid is made up of jagged, tooth-like motifs in a geometric pattern. Most often in black and white, houndstooth adds a polished, tailored feel to upholstery and decorative accents.

Gingham: Comparable to a small-scale buffalo check, gingham has a symmetrical design of horizontal and vertical stripes. Gingham is most typically seen with white, green, or red stripes on a white background and is considered a summer staple – think of picnic blankets with the classic red gingham print.

Tattersall: Tattersall is made up of thin vertical and horizontal lines to create a checkered pattern. It often includes muted colors like blue, gray, or beige. The subdued plaid type is great for incorporating a bit of pattern.

Easy Ways to Decorate Your Home With Plaid

Not sure where to decorate with plaid? We've gathered a few ways to style plaid throughout your space, including tips on choosing which type of plaid is best suited for each spot.

1. Go for Scale

Because plaid is easy on the eyes – much like stripes – filling your space with plaid upholstery or a plaid area rug can be a stylish upgrade. Opt for a simple, scaled-up pattern like windowpane or buffalo check to maintain clean lines, or choose a neutral tartan for a timeless and inviting upholstery option. Plus, plaid makes a great base for mixing patterns.

2. Make the Bed

Plaid bedding adds a cozy and inviting feel to your bedroom. Not just for rustic cabins, plaid comforters and quilts bring versatile style to your sleep setup. And if you want to try your hand at layering different prints, opt for a set of plaid sheets to tuck below your plaid duvet cover. Choose plaids of different sizes for a chic, layered look.

3. Add Stylish Accents

From your bedroom to your living room, complete your space with plaid accents. A pile of plaid throw pillows can add depth and comfort to the top of your sofa, while a cozy plaid throw at the end of your bed is perfect for adding a bit of extra warmth on chilly nights. Best of all, you can choose from any of the plaid patterns to lean into your desired style. Think of cozy tartan throw blankets folded over the arm of a tufted leather chair, or a pair of buffalo check throw pillows on top of a slipcovered sofa.

4. Set the Table

Plaid also makes for a great tablescape addition. With so many types of plaid to choose from, you can pick the one that best suits the occasion. Lay out a cheery gingham tablecloth to set the tone for summertime dining outdoors, or fold a set of tartan napkins to incorporate festive hues for holiday celebrations.

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