OPINION
WHY TARTAN IS A YEAR-ROUND WARDROBE HERO
By Lizzie Griffin, 26 January 2026
Picture: Getty
Tartan can be styled in almost any way imaginable – but if you need a starting point, here are some looks worth trying.
JEANS AND A NICE TOP
Pictures: ASOS
In my opinion, this classic formula will never fall out of favour. An asymmetric tartan top paired with your staple jeans feels casual enough to take you through the day, but intentional enough to carry into the night. Whilst a chunky boot might be your seasonal switch-up shoe of choice, a fresher take would be a sleek ballet flat – a touch of quiet luxury to balance out the loud print on top.
GET THE LOOK:
ASOS DESIGN satin lace trim asym cami top in check, £34
ASOS DESIGN Curve high waisted barrel leg jeans in washed charcoal, £36
Pull&Bear Wavy arm cuff in silver, £11.99
ASOS DESIGN Lottie mary jane ballets in black, £20
FLOWING MAXI SKIRTS
Pictures: ASOS
A tartan kilt might be an obvious option, but why not play with a flowing maxi skirt instead? In the right shade of cool-toned checks and the perfect silhouette, this trending style teams well with a funnel-neck leather jacket, silver jewellery and bold sunglasses for a chic look, but equally works well with a chunky jumper and trainers. She’s versatile.
GET THE LOOK:
ARKET pleated volume midi skirt in grey check, £109
Thomas Sabo Ring in silver, £100
Topshop Narla premium real leather high pin heeled ankle boots in black, £110
& Other Stories cat eye sunglasses in black, £27
CHECKED TROUSERS
Pictures: ASOS
If you’re a certified tartan vet but looking to upgrade your collection, might I suggest trousers? Channel alt-girl energy with something like these plaid trousers – just add a graphic tee and slouchy bag to keep things casual. Teaming this outfit with a classic lo-pro trainer is a foolproof option, but if you're feeling bold then use the wrong shoe theory and choose a kitten heel for a look that's refreshingly unpredictable. Consider this your antidote to clean-girl minimalism.
GET THE LOOK:
Noisy May Curve high waist wide leg trousers with pleat detail in brown check, £38
Daisy Street retro city streets graphic baby tee in white, £16
adidas Originals Handball Spezial gum sole trainers in brown and white, £90
Gina Tricot large slouchy faux suede braided weave shoulder bag in dark brown, £50
DRESS UP
Pictures: ASOS
The common misconception is that plaid is only reserved for casual moments, but it’s not true. The print should do all the talking here, so elevate your dress with matching minimal accessories, and you’re good to go. It's the ideal look for a winter wedding or your bestie’s birthday dinner.
GET THE LOOK:
Topshop volume hem dropped waist maxi dress in blue check chiffon, £65
Topshop Isabelle 2 part banana heel sandal in chocolate, £30
Pieces chunky hoop earrings in silver tone, £12
Pull&Bear Metallic box bag in silver, £39.99
MAIN-CHARACTER ACCESSORIES
Pictures: ASOS
If you’re not ready to commit to a full tartan moment, accessories are the easiest way to test drive the print. A plaid bag or scarf can inject a hint of character into an otherwise simple look – they do all the heavy lifting for you. If you ask me, it's ideal for days when you want to make absolutely zero effort.
GET THE LOOK:
ASOS DESIGN oversized clutch in brown check, £32
Topshop Sydney blanket scarf in choc check, £25
Reclaimed Vintage satin headscarf in floral and check purple print, £15.99
ASOS DESIGN quilted check pattern triangle scarf in blue and chocolate brown, £22
