There has been some confusion online and in the fashion world about the difference between tartan and plaid. Some people use the two words interchangeably, while others make a distinction between them. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between tartan and plaid and discuss how to wear each properly.
What is Tartan?
Tartan is a pattern made up of crisscrossed horizontal and vertical bands in multiple colors. Tartan is most commonly associated with Scotland, but it actually originated in Central Asia. The word “tartan” comes from the French word for “cloth,” and it first appears in English in the early 15th century. Tartan became popular in Scotland in the 16th and 17th centuries when it was used for kilts and other garments. Today, tartan is still often associated with Scottish culture, but it has also become a popular fashion trend around the world. Tartan can be found in a wide variety of colors and patterns, making it a versatile and stylish fabric.
What is Plaid?
Plaid is a material made of two colors of fabric woven together in a pattern of perpendicular stripes. Plaid is often used for shirts, skirts, and other garments. It is also a popular choice for upholstery, curtains, and other home décor items. Plaids are typically made with two different colors of thread, but they can also be made with multiple colors. Plaid patterns can be created using a variety of weaving techniques.
The most common method is to weave two different colors of thread into the fabric from opposite sides. This creates a striped pattern that appears to be crisscrossed. Plaid fabrics can also be made by adding stripes of color to an existing fabric or by weaving multiple colors of thread together in a single pass. Plaids are typically made with wool, cotton, or synthetic fibers.
Difference between Tartan and Plaid
Tartan and plaid are often used interchangeably, but there is actually a difference between the two terms. Tartan refers to a specific type of woolen fabric with a checkered or striped pattern, while plaid can be used to describe any fabric with a similar pattern. Tartan originated in Scotland, and each clan had its own tartan design. Today, tartan is commonly associated with traditional Scottish clothing, such as kilts.
Plaid, on the other hand, is more commonly used in North America and can refer to any type of checkered or striped fabric, not just woolen fabric. Plaid is often used for shirts, skirts, and other items of clothing. So, while both tartan and plaid refer to fabrics with a checkered or striped pattern, tartan is specifically a type of woolen fabric while plaid can refer to any type of fabric with a similar pattern.
Conclusion
The difference between tartan and plaid is that tartan is made up of set, repeating patterns, whereas plaid can be composed of any number of colors and patterns. Plaid fabric may also come in a variety of textures, while tartan is always wool. If you’re looking for a classic Scottish look for your next project, go with tartan; if you want to add some visual interest and texture, choose plaid.
