Plaid is Back!

Remember, back in October, when we explored the fabulous variety that plaid can offer? Get ready for round two of the plaid obsession! This month, when I started to look for holiday crafts, do you know which pattern I found to be overwhelmingly popular? You guessed it – plaid. There are tons and tons of different plaid holiday home décor projects out in the blogosphere. Turns out, it’s not just for autumn, but it can be used in festive seasonal décor and winter fashion, too. Check it out!

Image via Eddie Ross

I found a fantastic DIY tutorial for flannel ornaments thanks to Goodwill Industries of Southern Piedmont (Charlotte). Designer Eddie Ross dreamed these beauties up to grace Kathy Lee Gifford’s stairway during the holidays. They’d be so easy to replicate with only a few supplies (including plaid shirts straight from the Goodwill racks). Make sure you visit the post, as this isn’t the only idea they’ve shared for adding flannel to your holiday festivities.

Image via thriftingdenver.org

Goodwill Industries of Denver, too, is tuned in to tartans. I love this Flannel Friday post they shared with two more holiday décor ideas (like the one pictured above) featuring the famous print. A simple runner like this would only take a few minutes to put together, but will certainly catch someone’s eye. Plus, since it is neutral enough, it can be left up after the holiday season. Just swap out the more Christmas-y items around it for winter basics and you’ve got something that transitions right into spring!

Image via sunnyandturquoise.blogspot.com

Let’s not forget about actually wearing plaid, though! There may be plenty to do with this fabric other than having it on, but that doesn’t mean it’s passé as apparel. Lacey, of the blog Sunny and Turquoise, paired it perfectly for a snowy day with a cable-knit sweater and leather booties. Layering a nice flannel will keep you warm this holiday season without excess bulk. By the way, Lacey scored this top in the men’s section of her local Goodwill, but look at how perfectly it works for her. Remember, there are no real rules when it comes to thrifting; check every section and every size.

How about those plaids that are continuously passed up? Goodwill items that don’t sell after a significant amount of time in Goodwill stores and outlets are baled and sold to textile recyclers, which extends the life of already manufactured goods. Basically, nothing goes to waste. When you support Goodwill, you support your community and create a healthier future for our planet. So go ahead, grab another garment and get cracking on that last-minute holiday display!