The plaid shirt is rooted in the rich history of tartan, a woven pattern that originated in the Scottish Highlands. Traditionally, tartan patterns were used to signify different Scottish clans, with each unique design representing a family or region. These woollen fabrics provided not just warmth but also a strong cultural identity. As Scottish emigration spread across the globe in the 18th and 19th centuries, so did tartan, eventually evolving into what we now recognise as plaid.

By the early 20th century, plaid shirts became synonymous with American workwear, particularly in the rugged environments of logging camps and farms. Known as "lumberjack shirts" in the United States, they were made from thick flannel to withstand harsh conditions. Over time, the plaid shirt transcended its practical beginnings to become a symbol of rebellion and rugged masculinity in pop culture, worn by everyone from grunge musicians to fashion icons. Today, it remains a wardrobe essential, a timeless blend of heritage, functionality, and style.