National Plaid Day

Young men and women wearing plaid shirts, enjoying a picnic in a picturesque autumn park. — National plaid day illustration

Ah, National Plaid Day! It's the one day of the year where we can all embrace our inner lumberjack and proudly don our favorite plaid garments. Whether it's a cozy flannel shirt, a stylish plaid skirt, or even plaid accessories, this is the day to rock that checkered pattern with pride. So, let's dive into the rich and colorful history of National Plaid Day!

When is Plaid Day?

It's national plaid day on the 7th October.

The Origins of National Plaid Day

Believe it or not, National Plaid Day didn't begin as a hip online trend or a marketing ploy by the fashion industry. Its origins can actually be traced back to a small Scottish village called Glen Urquhart, where plaid has been a part of the local culture for centuries. The villagers, known for their love of tartan patterns, wanted to share their passion with the world.

On a chilly October day in 1822, the villagers decided to organize a festival dedicated to their beloved plaid. They called it 'Plaiddie,' a combination of 'plaid' and 'toddle,' which means 'to celebrate' in Scottish Gaelic. The festival featured traditional Scottish music, dance, and of course, a parade showcasing an array of stunning plaid outfits.

The Internet Takes Over

Fast forward to the digital era, and National Plaid Day has found a new home online. Social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok have become the virtual runways for plaid fashionistas to showcase their fabulous ensembles. From bloggers sharing their plaid-inspired outfit ideas to influencers organizing virtual plaid parties, the internet has taken National Plaid Day to a whole new level.

So, why not join the plaid party and snap a photo of your plaid-infused outfit to share with the online plaid-loving community? Remember, there's no such thing as too much plaid on this joyous day!

History behind the term 'Plaid'

1700s

The Origins

During the 1700s, the term 'plaid' referred to a type of cloth worn by the Scottish Highlanders. It was made from woven wool and characterized by its distinct crisscross pattern of colored bands. The word 'plaid' itself derived from the Scottish Gaelic word 'plaide' meaning blanket or shawl. Originally, plaids were used as multifunctional garments, serving as clothing, bedding, and even for carrying goods.

1700s

Early Origins

The term 'plaid' has its origins in the 1700s, referring to a type of woven fabric that was commonly used in traditional Scottish clothing. The word 'plaid' itself comes from the Scots Gaelic word 'plaide', meaning blanket. Initially, plaid referred specifically to the tartan or checkered patterned woolen cloth used in traditional Scottish kilts, shawls, and blankets.

15th century

The Scottish origins

The term 'plaid' originates from the Gaelic word 'plaide', meaning a blanket or a shawl. In the 15th century, plaid referred to a long, rectangular garment made of wool, worn as a cloak or a blanket by Scottish Highlanders. It was often brightly colored and woven in traditional tartan patterns specific to each clan.

1500s

Early Origins

Plaid, derived from the Scottish Gaelic word 'plaide', originally referred to a specific item of clothing - a tartan or a blanket-like shawl. The term first appeared in the 16th century and had a practical purpose, providing warmth and protection from the harsh Scottish weather.

400 BCE - 100 CE

Ancient Plaid

Plaid, also known as tartan, originated in ancient times, dating back to 400 BCE - 100 CE. The Celts, who inhabited lands in what is now modern-day Scotland and Ireland, were known to weave cloth with distinctive patterns. These early plaids were made using natural dyes and were primarily used for clothing and blankets. The patterns varied among different clans, reflecting their unique identities.

1500s

The Tartan Tradition Begins

In the 1500s, tartan patterns began to emerge in Scotland, with different clans designing their own distinctive patterns. These patterns were initially used as a form of identification to represent different clans and families. The word 'plaid' at this time referred to the garment worn over the shoulder, known as 'plaide' in Scottish Gaelic.

1500s

The Weaver's Check

In the 1500s, weavers in Scotland began creating a fabric called 'the Weaver's Check,' which consisted of a simple, two-color pattern. This pattern, made by weaving together contrasting colored threads, would eventually evolve into the iconic plaid design.

1600s

The Scottish Beginnings

The term 'plaid' originates from the Scottish Gaelic word 'plad', meaning blanket or rug. In the 1600s, it referred to the traditional woven woolen garments worn in the Scottish Highlands. These garments were often adorned with simple checked patterns, which would later come to be known as 'plaids'.

1700s

The Origins

The term 'plaid' finds its origins in the Scottish Highlands during the 1700s. It comes from the Scots Gaelic word 'plaide' meaning a blanket or a length of cloth. During this time, plaid referred to a garment that was draped over the shoulder and fastened at the waist with a belt or brooch. The plaid served both as a practical outer garment and a symbol of clan identity.

1530

The Birth of Tartan

The term 'plaid' finds its roots in the Scottish highlands where a distinct patterned fabric called tartan was first created around 1530. This fabric became a symbol of Scottish clan identity.

16th century

Early Origins

The term 'plaid' traces its origins back to the 16th century in Scotland. It was derived from the Gaelic word 'plaide', which referred to a type of blanket or outer garment. Plaids were traditionally made from wool and featured a tartan pattern, consisting of distinctive crisscrossed horizontal and vertical lines.

18th century

Rise in Popularity

During the 18th century, plaid became increasingly popular, both in Scotland and abroad. Scottish Highland clans commonly wore plaids as a symbol of their identity and allegiance. The distinctive tartan patterns became associated with different clans, serving as a visual representation of their heritage and lineage.

18th Century

The Highland Tartan

During the 18th century, the plaid became a significant symbol of Scottish Highland culture. The woven patterns, known as tartans, became associated with specific Scottish clans or districts. Each tartan design represented a clan's unique heritage and identity. This association with Scottish clans contributed to the cultural significance of the term 'plaid'.

1700s

The Tartan Renaissance

During the 1700s, plaid fabric became popularized in Scotland, particularly through the resurgence of tartan designs. Tartan refers to a type of plaid pattern associated with specific Scottish clans. These tartans became an important symbol of Scottish identity and were worn as kilts by men and as shawls or sashes by women.

16th Century

The Scottish Connection

During the 16th century, the term 'plaid' became associated with the traditional Scottish garment known for its distinctive crisscross pattern. This garment, also called a plaid, consisted of a large piece of tartan fabric worn over the shoulder and fastened with a brooch. The plaid served both functional and cultural purposes, providing warmth and symbolizing clan allegiance.

1800s

The Tartan Craze

In the 1800s, the popularity of Scottish culture, including the traditional tartans and plaids, exploded across Britain thanks to the romanticism fueled by literature like Sir Walter Scott's novels. Tartans, including plaids, became synonymous with Scotland and its clans. The designs were linked with specific regions and families, each having their own unique tartan pattern, as a symbol of identity and heritage.

1725

Introduction of the Word 'Plaid'

During the 18th century, the word 'plaid' started to be used to describe the tartan fabric worn by the Highlanders. It derived from the Gaelic word 'plaide' which meant blanket or shawl.

1800s

Highland Associations

During the 19th century, plaid became strongly associated with the Scottish Highlands and their traditional kilts. The distinctive plaids represented various Highland clans and helped to differentiate between different groups during large gatherings and events. Plaid also became linked with romantic images of Scottish culture.

17th century

The Highlanders' rebellion

During the 17th century, the Highlanders rebelled against the English oppression, and plaid became a symbol of Scottish nationalism and rebellion. The colorful and distinctive tartan patterns of the Highland clans gained further significance as a representation of clan identity and loyalty.

1830s

The Tartan Revival

In the 1830s, thanks to the Scottish author Sir Walter Scott, the term 'tartan' became more commonly used to describe the distinctive checked patterns associated with Scottish clans. Tartan patterns were seen as a part of Scotland's cultural heritage and gained popularity across the country. The term 'plaid' began to be used interchangeably with 'tartan' to refer to these checkered patterns.

1700s

Highland Influence on Plaid

During the 1700s, the use of tartan patterns grew in popularity, particularly in the Scottish Highlands. Highlanders began to wear kilts made from tartan fabric, and the word 'plaid' gradually shifted meaning to refer to the specific pattern of tartan rather than the garment itself. The term 'plaid' came to represent the distinctive crisscrossed pattern associated with different Scottish clans and regions.

18th Century

Highland Dress

During the 18th century, plaid became closely associated with Highland dress and Scottish culture as a whole. The distinctive tartan patterns and vibrant colors of the plaid fabric were used to distinguish different clan affiliations. Each clan had its own unique tartan, and the wearing of plaid served as a visual representation of clan identity and pride.

1870s

Rise in Popularity

Plaid patterns gained popularity beyond Scotland during the 1870s when the trend for Scottish-inspired fashions swept across Europe and North America. Queen Victoria's significant interest in Scotland further contributed to the widespread fascination with plaid.

19th Century

Plaid in Fashion

During the 19th century, plaid became increasingly fashionable, both in Scotland and abroad. The fabric was used to create a wide range of garments, from dresses and skirts to coats and accessories. Queen Victoria's visit to the Scottish Highlands in the mid-1800s further popularized plaid as a fashionable style, leading to its incorporation into high society fashion.

1800s

Rise of Plaid in Fashion

In the 19th century, plaid fabric became fashionable beyond Scotland. The fascination with Scottish culture and the romanticized image of the Highlands led to an increased interest in plaid patterns. Queen Victoria herself played a significant role in popularizing plaid when she used it as a symbol of her love for Scotland. This widespread adoption of plaid in fashion solidified its place as a timeless and iconic pattern.

19th Century

The March of Plaid

In the 19th century, plaid made its way beyond Scotland and gained popularity in other parts of the world. The fabric became fashionable and desirable, particularly in England and the United States. Plaid garments, such as shawls, jackets, and skirts, were embraced as stylish and trendy fashion choices, often associated with a sense of sophistication and heritage.

19th Century

The Influence of Queen Victoria

In the 19th century, the term 'plaid' gained wider recognition and popularity thanks to the influence of Queen Victoria. The Queen developed a fascination with Scotland and its culture, often seen wearing tartan dresses and shawls. Queen Victoria's love for plaid sparked a trend among the British elite and contributed to the global association of plaid with Scottish heritage.

19th century

Outlawed and Revived

In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the British government passed laws that aimed to suppress Highland culture, including the wearing of kilts and plaids. The Dress Act of 1746 even banned the use of tartan. However, these restrictions were eventually lifted, and in the 19th century, Queen Victoria's love for Scotland helped revive the popularity of Scottish traditions, including the wearing of plaid.

1815

Transition to Clothing Style

By the early 19th century, plaid began to be incorporated into the designs of various clothing items such as dresses, trousers, and jackets. This transition helped spread the popularity of plaid beyond traditional Scottish attire.

1800s

The Royal Influence

In the 19th century, plaid gained even more prominence when Queen Victoria developed a fondness for the fabric. Visiting her Scottish residence, Balmoral Castle, the Queen frequently wore plaid clothing, which popularized the pattern across Britain and beyond. Plaid became associated with a sense of sophistication and style.

1900s

The Iconic Pattern

During the 1900s, plaid gained recognition as a timeless and fashionable pattern. It started transcending its Scottish roots and became popular worldwide. The diverse range of colors, patterns, and variations made plaid a versatile and adaptable design for various clothing items, accessories, decor, and even in automotive interiors. Plaid has since been associated with notions of style, individuality, and rebelliousness.

19th Century

Plaid and Fashion

In the 19th century, plaid patterns started gaining popularity beyond Scotland. The British royals, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, developed a fondness for Scottish tartans, which led to a surge in demand for plaid fabrics and clothing. The fashionable use of plaid by the British elite helped popularize the term internationally.

18th century

The Act of Proscription

In 1746, the Act of Proscription was passed, which aimed to suppress Scottish culture and traditions, including the wearing of tartan and the use of the Gaelic language. This led to a decline in the visibility of plaid in Scotland, as wearing tartan became a punishable offense.

20th Century

The Rise of Plaid in Pop Culture

During the 20th century, plaid saw a resurgence in popularity and became a prominent pattern in fashion and pop culture. In the 1970s, plaid flannel shirts became symbols of counterculture and were worn by influential musicians, such as Kurt Cobain. Plaid also became associated with punk and grunge subcultures, challenging traditional fashion norms. Today, plaid remains a versatile pattern used in clothing, accessories, and home decor.

20th Century

Modernization and Diversification

In the 20th Century, plaid patterns evolved and diversified. Tartan fabrics, featuring various plaids, became popular in fashion and home decor. Different plaid designs were introduced, including buffalo plaid, windowpane plaid, and houndstooth, each with its unique pattern and cultural associations.

20th Century

From Fashion to Icon

Plaid firmly cemented its place in popular culture during the 20th century. It became a symbol of rebellion and counterculture, especially during the punk movement of the 1970s. The vibrant and unconventional use of plaid patterns in punk fashion challenged traditional societal norms. Plaid continued to evolve and adapt, appearing in various forms of modern fashion, interior design, and even as a motif in popular media.

1990s

Grunge Culture Influence

In the 1990s, plaid took on a new significance with the rise of grunge culture. Bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam popularized the grunge fashion trend, characterized by oversized flannel shirts and torn jeans. Plaid flannels became an iconic symbol of the music scene and the anti-establishment attitude associated with the genre. This led to a renewed interest in plaid and cemented its association with counterculture.

1842

Queen Victoria's Influence

The widespread popularity of plaid received a major boost when Queen Victoria and Prince Albert bought the Balmoral Castle in Scotland in 1842. Queen Victoria's love for plaid clothing and decor influenced fashion trends, making plaid a must-have pattern among the elite.

19th century

The Romantic revival

In the early 19th century, the Romantic movement sparked an interest in Scottish culture and history. Authors like Sir Walter Scott popularized the wearing of plaid through their literary works, rekindling the appreciation for tartan patterns and traditional Highland clothing.

20th Century

Association with Rebellion and Subcultures

During the 20th century, plaid became associated with rebellion and various subcultures, particularly in the United States. It became closely linked with punk rock and the grunge movement, as musicians and fashion icons embraced the edginess and countercultural connotations of plaid. This shift in perception added a new layer of significance to the pattern, showing its versatility and ability to convey different meanings over time.

20th Century

The Grunge Era

The term 'plaid' took on a different cultural significance during the late 20th century. In the 1990s, plaid shirts, particularly the flannel variety, became associated with the grunge subculture. Musicians like Kurt Cobain of Nirvana popularized the grunge look, characterized by oversized plaid shirts and a nonchalant attitude. This association with counterculture added a new layer of meaning to the term 'plaid'.

1950s

The Hollywood Trend

During the 1950s, plaid experienced a surge in popularity thanks to its portrayal in Hollywood films. Iconic actors like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe helped popularize plaid fashion, making it a staple of the glamorous Hollywood aesthetic. Plaid patterns appeared in movies such as 'Roman Holiday' and became synonymous with chic style.

20th century

Fashion Trend

During the 20th century, plaid made its way into the international fashion scene. It became a popular pattern for various types of clothing, including skirts, trousers, shirts, and accessories. The widespread adoption of plaid patterns in fashion showcased the versatility and timeless appeal of this Scottish heritage.

20th Century

Plaid Goes Beyond Scotland

In the 20th century, plaid broke free from its Scottish roots and gained worldwide popularity. The iconic red and black plaid pattern, known as 'lumberjack plaid' or 'buffalo check,' became associated with American lumberjacks and outdoor fashion. Plaid was embraced by various subcultures, including punk and grunge movements, adding a rebellious and edgy element to its image.

1990s

The Grunge Era

In the 1990s, plaid took on a whole new persona when it became associated with the grunge music scene. Bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam, with their laid-back, edgy style, made plaid shirts a symbol of rebellion and nonconformity. Plaid became a fashion statement for the alternative youth culture.

Present Day

Plaid's Timeless Appeal

Today, plaid remains a beloved and timeless pattern. It is used in various contexts, including fashion, interior design, and even in the branding of products. The distinctiveness and versatility of plaid continue to capture people's attention, connecting them to a rich cultural heritage while also evolving with contemporary trends. Whether it's a classic tartan representing Scottish heritage or a modern interpretation, plaid is a pattern that transcends time and continues to evoke fascination.

Present Day

Continued Influence

Today, plaid remains a beloved and versatile pattern that transcends boundaries of culture and style. It is still associated with Scottish heritage, but has also become a staple in contemporary fashion, home decor, and even automotive design. The distinctive patterns and colors of plaid can evoke a sense of nostalgia, tradition, or modernity, making it a timeless icon in the world of fashion and design.

Present Day

Everlasting Popularity

Plaid has remained a timeless and iconic pattern in contemporary culture. It continues to be prevalent in fashion, interior design, and pop culture. From high fashion runways to streetwear, plaid finds its place in various forms. Additionally, specific types of plaid, such as the Burberry check, have become instantly recognizable and associated with luxury brands. Plaid's enduring popularity showcases its ability to adapt and evolve throughout the years.

Present Day

Plaid All Around Us

Today, plaid remains a versatile and enduring pattern that transcends cultural boundaries. It is widely used in fashion, homeware, and even automotive interiors. The term 'plaid' now encompasses various checked and tartan patterns, each carrying its own cultural connotations. From the Scottish Highlands to the modern-day fashion runways, plaid has evolved and continues to make its mark on global aesthetics.

Present Day

Plaid in Pop Culture

Today, plaid remains a beloved and versatile pattern that transcends cultural boundaries. It has become widely associated with cozy flannel shirts, kilts, and the warmth of fall and winter fashion. Plaid has become so iconic that it even has its own designated day of celebration, National Plaid Day, observed on October 9th each year. From its humble beginnings as a Scottish textile to its enduring presence in contemporary fashion, the term 'plaid' continues to fascinate and captivate people worldwide.

Present

Continued Cultural Significance

Today, plaid remains an iconic symbol of Scottish culture and heritage. It is often associated with Scotland's rugged landscapes, traditional Highland attire, and the enduring legacy of the clans. Plaid patterns are used not only in clothing but also in home decor, accessories, and even in the branding of Scottish products. The term 'plaid' has transcended its original meaning, becoming synonymous with the beloved tartan patterns that evoke a sense of Scottish pride and identity.

1880

The Tartan Revival

During the late 19th century, there was a revival of interest in Scottish culture and heritage. This led to the rediscovery and renewed appreciation of tartan and plaid, both in Scotland and abroad. Tartan became an integral part of Scottish national identity and the plaid pattern was widely adopted in various fashion industries.

20th century

Plaid in fashion

By the 20th century, plaid had transitioned from being solely associated with Scottish culture to being widely adopted in fashion. Designers began incorporating plaid into various clothing items, from skirts and dresses to shirts and suits. The versatility and timeless appeal of plaid made it a popular choice in both casual and formal wear.

1990s

Plaid as a Subcultural Symbol

During the 1990s, plaid experienced a resurgence as a symbol of rebellion and non-conformity. Associated with the grunge movement, plaid shirts became a fashion staple among alternative youth culture, particularly in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. This association added a layer of countercultural significance to the history of plaid.

20th Century

Pop Culture and Beyond

Plaid's popularity continued to grow throughout the 20th century. It became associated with rebellion as it was worn by countercultural movements like punk rockers in the 1970s. Plaid also made its way into mainstream fashion and various subcultures, cementing its status as a versatile and timeless pattern.

Present Day

Iconic and Timeless Style

Plaid remains an iconic and timeless pattern in fashion and design. It has transcended its Scottish origins and gained cultural significance around the world. Whether associated with traditional Highland dress, rebellious youth culture, or simply appreciated for its aesthetic appeal, plaid continues to be a versatile and enduring part of our global fabric.

21st century

Plaid's enduring popularity

Today, plaid remains a beloved and recognizable pattern. It continues to be used in fashion designs, home decor, and even as a symbol of rebellion or counterculture in certain subcultures. The rich history and cultural significance of plaid make it an enduring and iconic pattern.

Present

Plaid on Runways

Plaid has continued to evolve and remains a beloved pattern in the fashion world today. Renowned designers regularly incorporate plaid into their collections, showcasing the pattern on runways around the globe. From traditional tartan to modern variations, plaid maintains its cultural significance and remains an enduring fashion choice.

Did you know?

Did you know that plaid patterns have different names? In Scotland, a plaid pattern is called a tartan, while in North America, it's often referred to as plaid. So, the next time you don your favorite plaid shirt, you can impress your friends with this little tidbit of plaid trivia!