Starting today, every Friday will feature a "fun facts" entry highlighting a different item, fabric, or tools used in garment construction. Today's blog post focuses on plaid!
Plaid is an American/Canadian word used to describe tartan, a pattern consisting of crossed horizontal and vertical bands in two or more colors in woven cloth. It is derived from Scotland, being that Scottish kilts are mostly plaid.
However, the word "plaid" in Scotland actually means a tartan slung over the shoulder, or a blanket kept on a bed. So if you are ever looking for a plaid print in Scotland, make sure you say tartan - or they may give you a blanket!
According to aesthetic critic.com, plaid first made its mark on fashion in the late 17th century as a signature in Scottish society. It eventually became a symbol of rebellion against England which resulted in it being banned for four decades.Wearing plaid after the Scottish rebellion in 1746 was forbidden. Plaid still holds as a symbol against society in general.
The 1960's brought plaid in skirts and shirts for women. It was used a lot for service and labor-orientated jobs as well. Outdoor men, like lumberjacks, became synonymous with red flannel plaid shirts. (Think the "Brawny" paper towels guy!)
The 1990's saw a huge increase of popularity for the patterned print as well. Commonly associated with the grunge decade, members of rock bands sported the plaid nearly all the time! Not all plaid popularity in the 90's was grunge associated though, it was still popular in jackets and skirts for women - think of the movie Clueless!
How many plaid prints are in your closet?
Sources:
http://aestheticcrit.com/a-history-of-plaid.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tartan
