Have I mentioned how excited I am that it’s “officially” plaid season? I could blame my obsession with plaid on Brandon’s Scottish heritage, or perhaps it’s my background and admiration for sewing, quilting and weaving where I see the true art that goes into creating the intriguing patterns. Regardless, I am a year-round lover of plaid – tartan, gingham, check, houndstooth, tattersall – I will take them all! The autumn and winter months are when this trendy but timeless textile gets the most attention. We have plaid featured all over the shop right now in celebration and I am so excited to show how we incorporate this beautiful pattern into our décor!

As you may know (especially those watching or reading Outlander – hi Jamie and Claire!) the different patterns found in plaids were originally crafted to serve as a marker for the different clans and families in Scotland. As colorful as the highlands themselves, plaid is now a popular fabric that has been reinvented over and over during the last centuries. Its rich history just makes me fall even more in love with this textile!



One of our favorite places to feature plaid is on our tabletops. There are plenty of spots where pops of plaid can have a great impact on your table. From seat cushions to accessories the possibilities are endless. A plaid tablecloth makes for a bold foundation for your holiday tabletop. For a softer touch, we utilize our favorite plaids by mixing and matching table runners and napkins to create a look full of depth and texture. From Thanksgiving to Christmas, plaid can be a showstopper at your table for the holidays and well into the winter months!



Highland Plaid Mug – Click Here
Owen Plaid Throw – Click Here
A versatile way to bring this fantastic pattern into your home is with a classic throw blanket. Just think about curling up under a warm and stylish plaid, a cup of hot tea in your hand and your favorite fall scent (I’m looking at you Gatherings!) burning nearby – pure cool-weather heaven! Besides the obvious comfort, plaid blankets are a beautiful addition to chair backs and sofas alike! At Mary Carol’s cottage, she stacks them up high by her fireplace to create a gorgeous and functional display. Another trick for a throw is to toss it on your table! That’s right, a throw blanket makes a creative table cover! And yes, you can mix plaids, so don’t be afraid to toss some plaid pillows in with your throw on your sofa or favorite chair.



There are so many ways to incorporate plaid into your home, from upholstery, to bows and ornaments, and even bookshelves! This is a pattern that won’t fade with the holidays- it will stick around all season to bring warmth and richness to your rooms. Have no fear year-round plaid lovers – there is always madras for when the weather turns again! What are some of your favorite places to incorporate plaid into your designs? I would love to hear about them in the comments or let us know on social media using #nellhills. Until next time – happy decorating!
Annette adams says
October 7, 2019 at 4:13 pmLove your ideas. Where do I get the wagon pillow? Thx
Katie Laughridge says
October 8, 2019 at 9:57 amThank you! We have them in the shop for $61 – they have an amazing texture to them! If you aren’t in the Kansas City area just give us a call at 816-746-4320 and ask for Grace she can get it shipped to you!
Larry Smithson says
October 7, 2019 at 5:04 pmMy home is full of plaids from Nell Hill’s. Friends tease me about all of the patterns mixed together, then say, “but your home is so warm and cozy”.
Katie Laughridge says
October 8, 2019 at 9:50 amhaha! I love this! Plaid really does add warmth to a home 🙂
Annette says
October 8, 2019 at 9:18 amI love it all! The more plaid the better. Planning a trip to NH in early December and I cannot wait!
Katie Laughridge says
October 8, 2019 at 9:43 amYay! So excited to have you in the shop!
Franki Parde says
October 8, 2019 at 10:02 amMy friend from Texas was “just in your shop” and you were “so nice” to her!! She said, “it is an amazing place….I said, I know!” franki
Katie Laughridge says
October 8, 2019 at 10:09 amOh that’s so fantastic to hear!! Thank you for passing that along it makes my heart happy to know she enjoyed her time with us!