Some design “trends” aren’t actually trends at all – because they’ve been around for decades, but recently have gained more love. This is especially true for checkered and plaid patterns. Just search the terms on Instagram or Pinterest, and you’ll see many awesome examples of using these patterns in a modern way.

BUFFALO CHECK

This fabric is typically classified by 1 or 2 colors on a light background, created by horizontal and vertical stripes of equal thickness crossing over each other to form squares.

It’s everywhere right now. On chairs, pillows, even on bathroom floors!

Black and White check is so classic but most importantly of all, very versatile. It mixes well with other patterns. You can do dots, floral, solids – the sky’s the limit.

It crosses over to many different design styles. Pictured below on this mid-century style chair by Schoolhouse Electric.

It goes more transitional here with Caitlin Wilson’s pillow and rug collection.

PLAID

I grew up in the Catholic school system.  I wore a plaid jumper everyday for about 6 years. Needless to say, I was over anything resembling plaid. Putting my childhood aside, I’d be crazy to deny that it’s making a comeback. And I think I kinda, sorta, dig it.

There is some crossover between check and plaid, but plaid usually consists of 2 or more colors and the stripes vary in size and spacing.  It’s kinda like Buffalo Check’s uptight older sister. It tends to feel a little more formal, sophisticated, and traditional than the playful checkered patterns.

So the question is- are you Team Check or Team Plaid?

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Sources: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

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