What type of pattern is typically associated with plaid fabrics?

Plaid fabrics are primarily characterized by their distinctive check pattern, which consists of horizontal and vertical lines crossing each other to form a series of squares or rectangles in various colors. This pattern typically features multiple colors and varying widths of the lines, giving it a layered appearance. The check pattern can vary in complexity, ranging from simple checks to more intricate designs, but the core characteristic remains that it is a grid-like arrangement.

This differentiates plaid from other types of patterns such as geometric patterns, which may include various shapes, angles, and designs that aren't confined to the grid layout of a check. Stripes feature only linear designs, either horizontal or vertical, but do not create a grid-like appearance. Solid colors are devoid of any patterns, which is the opposite of what plaid represents, as plaid inherently involves multiple colors and lines forming a patterned design. Thus, the connection of plaid to the check pattern is clear and well-established in textiles.