Few patterns feel as festive as tartan. Rich reds, deep greens, and navy make a plaid dress an easy starting point for a Christmas outfit. The trick is to let the pattern lead, then change the finishing touches to suit your plans. These three outfit formulas make holiday dressing feel simple.

1. Christmas brunch: relaxed and polished

Start with a dress from our Plaid Dresses collection, then pull one quiet color from its pattern for your cardigan or coat. Navy, cream, or a deep green can soften a bright red tartan without competing with it. Add simple flats or low boots you enjoy walking in.

Keep jewelry small and carry a bag in a solid color. This combination works beautifully for brunch followed by a little Christmas shopping. For a dress to explore, take a look at the Sail to Sable Highlands Dress in Red Plaid and check its product page for fit details.

2. Christmas dinner: classic with a festive finish

For a family gathering, pair your tartan with opaque tights and a neat heel or dressy flat. If the dress has a ruffled neckline, keep the necklace simple or skip it and choose earrings instead. That leaves the dress's details room to shine.

Browse Susan Shaw jewelry for a finishing touch, and choose a wrap or cardigan that is easy to take off when you move indoors. A solid layer keeps the whole outfit coordinated.

3. An evening celebration: a little more dressy

Take the same pattern into evening with a tailored coat, a small bag, and one statement accessory. A dark shoe can ground a vivid tartan; a simple metallic accent adds a festive touch. Consider the event's dress code before choosing your outfit, especially for formal celebrations.

A simple rule for mixing colors

Choose one or two colors already in the plaid and repeat them in your accessories. You do not need every piece to match exactly. A navy bag and cream layer can look considered alongside a red-and-navy dress, while competing patterns can make the outfit feel busier.

Find your starting point in Plaid Dresses or explore our wider Holiday Dresses collection for your next celebration.