Plaid is to winter what florals are to spring. You might associate plaid with bag pipe players and dull school uniforms but the scottish staple has come a long way with designers kicking the traditional pattern up a notch this season. From tailored tartan silhouettes to sporty styles, the iconic plaid got some serious play on the fall runways. The checkered pattern is a season-less classic that adds a grungy edge to the prettier pieces in your wardrobe. And the plaids we are talking about are tailored for attitude and not for the woods.

Since there is nothing subtle about this pattern, just a dash of plaid is a great way to liven up your favorite fall neutrals but if you are in the mood for a style challenge then mix yours with another print to make a bold statement. The style secret to wearing plaid is to match the hues - pick out the lightest shade in the pattern scheme and play it up in your separates. The fashion forward crowd is already picking up on this trend and to keep you au courant we have rounded up some of our favorite patterned picks for your shopping ease:

1. Guess Dress: Who says you have to sacrifice your style to try out playful plaid. Doll it up in plaid with this wool textured dress. Artfully tailored this dress will keep you looking sophisticated from nine to five and way beyond that.

2. Zara Bag (Rs. 2290): If you are looking for something unboring and totally different from what you already have, then consider this messenger bag from Zara. Its the perfect way to introduce a little plaid into your wardrobe. A great companion for shopping trips, this bag will leave your hands free to hold that much wanted hot cocoa cup.

3. Zara Coat (Rs. 6490): Zara took lumberjack plaid to a much chicer level with a cozy statement coat that will be a great staple in your winter wardrobe. A subtle check with double breast buttons and shoulder epaulets add to the appeal of the coat. You will reach for it to wear with dresses in the coming days and over layers when it gets seriously chilly.

4. Forever 21 shorts: You don't have to bid adieu to your girly pieces to try out these preppy plaid shorts. We love the idea of mixing a sweet lace top with these shorts. For a chic lumberjane look that's also weather appropriate, team up the shorts with a white crew neck sweater and some maroon tights and pair of brogues. For a edgier take on plaid, swap the brogues for a pair of chunky moto boots.

5. Forever 21 Boots: These fold over boots with plaid lining is a fun way to include the standout pattern in your look. They look fabulous with jeans and add add a cool touch to tights and a dress.

6. Promod Dress: If you are the one for subdued wardrobe choices, then this dress from Promod fits the bill perfectly. Seriously easy and equally chic, this dress gives the impression of carefully mixed separates without the worry of choosing them.

7. Forever 21 Scarf: Get on board the checkered craze with this black and white plaid scarf. For a cool take on cold comfort, wrap yourself in this scarf with everything from pants to chunky cardigans. This scarf has the serious potential of becoming your go-to accessory this winter.

8. Zara Skirt (Rs. 1990): As an ode to our all time favorite film 'Clueless', we picked this cute little skirt from Zara. The skirt that ( also available in a pink color scheme) feels like an updated version of something straight out of Cher's closet. Indulge the inner valley girl in you and wear it with a chunky cable knit sweater and some pointy pumps.

9. Mango Jacket (Rs. 6990): The modern way to do plaid is to sport one piece at a time and if you are on the hunt for one investment piece, then may we suggest this cheery plaid number from Mango. A little hippie than the usual puffier, this coat will keep you warm while looking stylish. Take a cue from Nicki Hilton and wear yours with black separates and some edgy boots.

10. Mango Shirt (Rs. 2290): A classic plaid button down in a tried-and-true color mix is a fail proof way to try out this pattered trend. Its one of those multi functional pieces that you can dress up or down. Make it work for office by teaming with a sharp pencil skirt and a pair of patent pumps. Keep it Sunday casual by throwing it over you black denims or style it up by pairing it with your denim shorts and leggings.

Are you ready to get clad in plaid? Which on of these plaid finds will on your shopping list?

Source: Style.com; Street Peeper; Stockholm Streetstyle