Cozying up to Plaid

Cozy, oversize, knit sweater. The alpaca and merino wool bold plaid is on-trend but still a classic buy. $270, netaporter.com.

J. Crew’s red and navy plaid, fitted nylon trench is not suited for the polar vortex. Best for fall weather or early winter warm days. We just couldn’t resist including. $298, jcrew.com.

TOMS’ shoes look and do good. And these are adorable. $59, toms.com.

Not your same-old, same-old bomber jacket. DKNY’s rose plaid stands out in a crowded field. $699, dkny.com.

Kate Spade New York’s super sized the silhouette of its Cameron Street Plaid Margot. For those who want to lug their life around with them. $265, katespade.com.

When you want to dash from the car and be unencumbered by a weighty winter coat, this Kooples plaid poncho with leather collar fits the bill. $350, saksfifthavenue.com.

Jump puddles with abandon. These Saltwater Duck Boots will keep your feet dry, stylish and warm. $99.95, sperry.com.

We’re suckers for buffalo checks and oversized watches. This one’s a men’s. Timex Expedition Scout Plaid Watch, $45.46, kohls.com.

Coach 1941’s polo sweater with plaid front mixes retro and new. An update for your 2017 wardrobe (it is expected to ship Dec. 25, 2016). $295, saksfifthavenue.com.

IS IT THE Outlander influence or just the coming of winter that makes us want to rekindle our love for plaid? Besides adding pizazz to a bleak outdoor palette, colorful tartans are perfect attire for cozying up to a roaring fire in a country manor. Lest you think plaid is too traditional, preppy or dowdy, remember how the late, great,  Alexander McQueen reinvented the tartan of his heritage look modern, appliquéing a red, black and yellow dress with black lace and adding an underskirt of tulle.  And who can forget Cher Horowitz’s yellow tartan jacket and skirt in “Clueless?”

Here, we suggest some ways to wear plaid for the bold and the not so fearless.

— Janet Kelly
MyLittleBird editor Janet Kelly most recently posted on dual-purpose lip and cheek products.