Tracee Ellis Ross Champions Early Fall Fashion with Chic Plaid Ensemble

New York, NY – July 26, 2023 – As the sweltering heat of July continues to dominate, a select few fashion-forward individuals are already looking ahead to the crisp air and stylish layers of autumn. Among them is the ever-impeccable Tracee Ellis Ross, who recently provided a masterclass in transitioning summer wardrobes into fall-ready looks. Spotted in New York City en route to an appearance on "Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen," Ross donned an ensemble that artfully blended seasonal transition with her signature flair, signaling that plaid button-downs are poised to be a significant trend for the upcoming fall season.

The Subtle Shift: Embracing Autumnal Elements Mid-Summer

While many are still firmly entrenched in breezy linen and vibrant sundresses, Tracee Ellis Ross’s recent sartorial choice offers a compelling preview of what’s to come in fall fashion. The actress, known for her bold yet sophisticated style, opted for a departure from the typical summer palette by choosing a plaid button-down shirt. This seemingly simple substitution is a powerful indicator of the growing influence of autumnal aesthetics, even as the calendar still firmly points to summer. The choice of plaid, a perennial fall staple, served as a subtle yet unmistakable nod to the cooler months ahead, demonstrating a keen eye for anticipating emerging trends.

Ross’s ensemble was meticulously curated to showcase how a classic plaid shirt can be elevated beyond its traditional lumberjack or casual connotations. Instead of pairing it with jeans or leggings, she expertly balanced the slightly more structured feel of the plaid with two key pieces that bridge the gap between seasons: long shorts and high-heel mule sandals. The gray hue of her long shorts offered a sophisticated neutrality, allowing the plaid pattern to take center stage without overwhelming the look. This deliberate choice of length for the shorts is crucial for the transitional period, providing a more covered feel than traditional short-shorts while still acknowledging the warmer temperatures.

The addition of high-heel mule sandals further solidified the outfit’s chic and forward-thinking appeal. This footwear choice is inherently versatile, seamlessly transitioning from a summery vibe to a more polished fall aesthetic. The mule, with its open back and often block heel, offers a comfortable yet elevated option that complements the relaxed yet refined silhouette of the plaid shirt and long shorts.

A Masterclass in Transitional Styling: Deconstructing Tracee Ellis Ross’s Look

Tracee Ellis Ross’s ability to consistently set and define trends is a testament to her deep understanding of fashion and her willingness to experiment. Her recent New York City outing serves as a prime example of her sartorial prowess, offering a blueprint for incorporating fall-ready pieces into a summer wardrobe.

The Plaid Button-Down: A Versatile Foundation
The cornerstone of Ross’s transitional outfit was her plaid button-down shirt. Unlike a plain white or solid-colored option, the plaid introduces texture, pattern, and a distinct autumnal vibe. The key to making this work in July lies in the fabric and fit. A lighter weight material, such as cotton or a linen blend, would ensure breathability, while a slightly oversized or relaxed fit offers a casual yet put-together feel. The specific colorway of the plaid also plays a role; muted tones or classic combinations like red and black, or blues and grays, lean more towards fall than brighter, more summery patterns.

The Long Shorts: Bridging the Gap
The choice of long shorts was instrumental in grounding the look and making it appropriate for a warmer climate while hinting at cooler days. These are not your typical denim cut-offs. Instead, they lean towards tailored bermuda shorts or slightly longer, wider-leg styles. The gray hue of Ross’s shorts provided a sophisticated and neutral base, allowing the plaid shirt to shine. This length offers a sense of polish and maturity that perfectly complements the plaid, preventing the ensemble from appearing too casual or overtly summery. The key here is to opt for styles that have a structured feel, perhaps with pleats or a defined waistband, to elevate them beyond beachwear.

The Mule Heels: The Finishing Touch
Completing the look were high-heel mule sandals. This footwear choice is a strategic one for transitional dressing. The open back and typically elegant silhouette of a mule offer a summery sensibility, while the heel adds a touch of sophistication that bridges the gap to fall. Whether a stiletto, a block heel, or a kitten heel, the mule provides a polished finish that elevates the entire ensemble. The neutral color of Ross’s sandals, likely in a complementary shade to her shorts or shirt, ensures they act as a seamless extension of the outfit.

Accessorizing with Understated Elegance
Ross’s accessory choices further refined the look. Black wraparound sunglasses added an element of cool-girl chic, while gold hoop earrings provided a classic touch of understated glamour. These subtle additions enhanced the overall polish of the outfit without detracting from the carefully curated clothing choices.

The Emerging Trend: Plaid Button-Downs for Fall 2026

Tracee Ellis Ross’s fashion-forward choices often serve as a predictor of upcoming trends. Her embrace of the plaid button-down in mid-summer is a strong indication that this versatile piece will be a key player in the fall 2026 fashion landscape. Last fall, plaid shirts were a notable trend, and Ross’s recent styling suggests a continued evolution and reinvigoration of this classic motif.

The appeal of the plaid button-down lies in its inherent adaptability. It can be dressed up or down, layered or worn on its own, making it a true wardrobe workhorse. For fall 2026, we can anticipate seeing plaid shirts appear in a variety of fabrics, from cozy flannels and soft wools to lighter cottons and even silks for a more elevated take. The patterns themselves will likely range from traditional checks and tartans to more contemporary interpretations with updated color palettes.

The styling possibilities are endless. For a casual approach, pairing a plaid shirt with dark-wash denim and chunky boots will be a go-to. For a more polished look, consider tucking a plaid shirt into a leather skirt or tailored trousers, or layering it under a sleek blazer. The key will be to experiment with different textures and silhouettes to keep the trend feeling fresh and modern. Ross’s early adoption of this trend highlights its potential to remain relevant and highly desirable for seasons to come.

Recreating the Tracee Ellis Ross-Approved Look

For those inspired by Tracee Ellis Ross’s impeccable transitional style, recreating her ensemble is an achievable fashion goal. The core elements – a plaid button-down, long shorts, and mule heels – are readily available across a range of price points.

1. The Plaid Button-Down: Seek out shirts with classic patterns and sophisticated colorways. Brands like Toteme offer luxurious options, while more accessible retailers like Zara and Mango provide stylish alternatives. Consider fabrics like cotton, linen blends, or even a lightweight flannel for a softer feel.

2. The Long Shorts: Opt for tailored bermuda shorts, culottes, or wide-leg shorts in neutral tones such as gray, black, or beige. Zara’s ZW Collection often features well-tailored options, while brands like COS and Reformation offer chic alternatives. The key is to find a length and fit that feels both comfortable and polished.

3. The Mule Heels: High-heel mules are a versatile choice that can add instant polish. Look for styles in leather or suede in neutral shades like black, brown, or tan. Brands like Tony Bianco, STAUD, and Calvin Klein offer a range of options to suit various preferences and budgets.

Shopping Guide: Curated Picks to Emulate the Look

To help you achieve Tracee Ellis Ross’s effortlessly chic transitional style, we’ve curated a selection of key pieces:

Plaid Shirts:

• Toteme Classic Check Button Down Top: A premium choice offering sophisticated plaid design.
• Rails Bishop Plaid Button Up Shirt: Known for its soft fabrics and classic plaid patterns.
• MANGO Camisa Plaid Shirt: A stylish and accessible option for everyday wear.
• Polo Ralph Lauren Relaxed Fit Plaid Shirt: Offers a comfortable and classic take on the plaid button-down.
• Massimo Dutti 100% Linen Check Snap Button Shirt: Perfect for warmer weather with its breathable linen fabric.
• Z Supply River Plaid Button Up in Dark Chocolate: A cozy and stylish option with a rich color palette.
• Lioness Nirvana Shirt in Vintage Beige Plaid: A contemporary choice with a relaxed fit.
• FRAME The Plaid Boy Shirt: A designer option with a modern silhouette.
• THE ATTICO Button Down Check Shirt: A high-fashion interpretation of the plaid shirt.
• Fear of God ESSENTIALS Button Up Shirt: A streetwear-inspired option with a classic plaid design.

Long Shorts:

• EAVES Colby Long Shorts: A contemporary and stylish option for a modern look.
• COS Longline Tailored Shorts: Offers a sophisticated and minimalist aesthetic.
• Open Edit The Curator Crepe Culottes: A chic and versatile choice for elevated casual wear.
• Reformation Drew Shorts: A popular option known for its flattering fit and sustainable practices.
• Everlane High-Rise Pleated Culottes: A comfortable and stylish choice with a refined silhouette.

Mule Heels:

• Tony Bianco Hallie Choc Vintage Heels: A stylish choice with a vintage-inspired charm.
• STAUD Brigitte Mules in Tan: A popular designer option known for its clean lines.
• Calvin Klein Vixie Slide Sandals: An accessible and chic option for everyday wear.
• STAUD Bea Mules: A minimalist and elegant mule perfect for dressing up any outfit.
• ZARA Leather Heeled Mules: A budget-friendly option that captures the essence of the trend.

By incorporating these key pieces into your wardrobe, you can effortlessly channel Tracee Ellis Ross’s sophisticated approach to transitional dressing, ensuring you’re perfectly styled for both the lingering days of summer and the exciting arrival of fall. Her influence continues to shape fashion conversations, and this latest ensemble is a clear indicator of the enduring appeal of the plaid button-down.