Normally, when I think of plaid and gingham decor, I think of an Ivy League student in the 1900s in a Burberry scarf: It’s a little stuffy, tired, and, dare I say it… boring. Most plaid decor back then consisted of very dark colorways and simple designs, so they weren’t really dramatic looks, and they absolutely wouldn’t suit contemporary design styles.
Now, however, the gingham trend is back, and it’s fresh and new to suit a modern home. Trust me: I’m not usually a plaid lover, but this is one of those interior design trends that has been given such a modern makeover, you can’t help but enjoy it: Think new colorways, different textures, plays with scale and size, and added accents, all of which make plaid decor a gorgeous addition to today’s home.
‘Plaid offers a pattern that can sway masculine or feminine; rustic or stately; and an array of color palettes from neutral to vibrant,’ says interior designer Leslie Murchie Cascino, owner of Michigan-based design firm Bonnie Wu Design. ‘They can be used in traditional or modern settings, and depending on the weave and material of the fabric, a plaid could be rendered casual or formal. Plaid comes in so many forms, so its versatility makes it an attractive pattern to use in design.’
Leslie Murchie Cascino is an interior designer and owner of Michigan-based design firm Bonnie Wu Design.
The best part is, depending on your own style and the plaid variation you’ve chosen, you can make a huge statement in your home or go the more subtle route. Play with a gingham pillow on an all-white sofa for a pop, or use a whole series of plaid chairs in your living room in a neutral color scheme for it to blend in. No matter your personal preferences, there’s a plaid option out there for you, and I’ve scoured through several hundreds to find you my personal favorites.
The best plaid decor that's far from bland
Was $268, now $99.99 at Serena & Lily
Soft linen, a poofy caterpillar fringe, and a multitude of available colors make this pillow cover a fun addition to both an indoor or outdoor space. The contrasting translucent checks also add some interest.
Was $109, now $87 at Pottery Barn
This blanket puts a serene twist on plaid, in order to make it appropriate for the bedroom: Think soft colors, a yarn-dyed appearance, and a consistent pattern throughout.
Made in collaboration with Heather Taylor Home, this ottoman uses a bright nutmeg hue for a playful take on plaid. The color makes the look fresh again, so you can easily consider this ottoman a statement piece.
This comfy throw takes a traditional plaid pattern and ups it in scale, proving that on occasion, bigger is definitely better. It’s been woven out of 100 percent lamb’s wool for extra warmth.
By combining plaid and polka dots, this durable iron magazine rack makes storage lighthearted and playful. The gold rims add a luxe feel to the design, and it’s ideal for modern living rooms.
I can count about five different colors used on the Meghwal Plaid Pillow, and honestly, that’s what makes it so on-trend and fun. It has a slightly textured look to it too, so vintage lovers will gravitate to it.
Tea or coffee mugs, a cheese platter, or even your favorite trinkets would all stand out on this sustainable bamboo tray. The softer color scheme makes the look very feminine, which is such a new take on plaid.
Was $258, now $181 at Lulu & Georgia
Multicolored tassels further accentuate the handwoven gingham design on this tablecloth, but the pattern itself stays simple to allow for your tableware to stand out.
This is not your grandfather’s armchair. Crafted from wood and polyester, it features an arched back for extra ergonomic support and a breezy tan design that aims to bring an outdoor-indoor aesthetic to your space.
The return of plaid and gingham decor proves that preppy is back, but it’s been elevated to suit the modern home. Incorporating new spring color ideas and unexpected shapes, these plaid designs are contemporary and fun. Consider adding gingham decor to one of your spring decor ideas.
