If there’s one fabric pattern you simply can’t ignore this season, it’s tartan. You might call me a follower rather than a trend-setter, but honestly, I don’t mind. Some trends deserve to be embraced without hesitation, and tartan is one of them. I’ve fallen head over heels for its timeless appeal, and judging from the sea of checked coats, skirts, and scarves I’ve spotted on my fashion-loving companions, I’m clearly not the only one. This is the fall where tartan reigns supreme, and I, for one, am happily along for the ride.
Why Tartan Feels So Right Now
Tartan isn’t exactly a newcomer—it has centuries of history woven into its threads. It carries the weight of tradition while still managing to reinvent itself every decade or so. That’s the magic: it can look rebellious, preppy, elegant, or casual depending on how you wear it. This fall, tartan feels especially right because it balances familiarity with freshness. It’s bold enough to be a statement, but versatile enough to slip into your everyday wardrobe without fuss.
Normally, I gravitate toward brighter tartans—the kind that pop instantly and create a look that says, “Yes, I dressed with intent today.” Bright tartans almost function as an accessory on their own, injecting energy into an outfit with minimal effort. But today I went for something more understated: the Prince of Wales check. A little quieter, a little subtler, but every bit as chic.
The Prince of Wales Check—An Elegant Alternative
The Prince of Wales check, unlike its bolder tartan siblings, doesn’t scream for attention. It whispers sophistication. The soft grid of muted tones gives it a polished edge, making it perfect for moments when you want to nod to the tartan trend without shouting about it. I styled it in a dressed-down way—because sometimes fashion feels best when it’s effortless.
There’s a misconception that tartan has to be loud to make an impact, but that’s simply not true. Prints like the Prince of Wales prove that tartan can be just as effective when understated. It’s about attitude, not intensity. Pairing a quieter check with classic pieces—think an oversized coat, a simple top, or ankle boots—creates a look that feels modern but grounded.
Statement vs. Subtlety
I think what draws me most to tartan, whether bright or muted, is its ability to straddle that line between statement and subtlety. On the one hand, a bold red or green tartan coat can anchor your entire outfit, letting the print do all the talking. On the other, a more subdued check can serve as a backdrop, giving you room to play with accessories or layering.
And here’s the best part: both directions work equally well. Fashion is about finding which version of tartan makes you feel most like yourself. Are you someone who thrives on color and attention? Go for the bright, bold check. Do you prefer an understated elegance that whispers rather than shouts? Prince of Wales is your friend. Either way, you’re part of the tartan conversation.
Dressing Tartan Down (and Loving It)
For me, today’s look was all about showing tartan in a dressed-down way. No overthinking, no complicated layering—just easy, wearable pieces that still carry impact. I paired my Vanessa Bruno coat with a Malene Birger skirt and a simple Whistles top. The grounding details came from my Balenciaga boots (a forever favorite) and Ace & Tate sunglasses, which never fail to add just the right dose of cool. A clutch from H&M Trend and a LeiVanKash necklace were the finishing touches that kept things practical but polished.
It’s proof that tartan doesn’t always need to headline an outfit. Sometimes it works best as part of a bigger ensemble, elevating everything around it without dominating the stage.
The Universal Appeal of Checks
Another reason tartan feels so special this fall? It works for everyone. Street style stars are mixing it with leather and denim for an urban edge. Minimalists are reaching for neutral checks layered under camel coats. Even the most maximalist dressers can find joy in clashing tartans layered over each other. There’s no wrong way to do it.
And maybe that’s why tartan never really goes out of style. Every season, it finds a new way to stay relevant. This fall, it’s less about Scottish nostalgia and more about reinterpreting checks in everyday wear. Tartan isn’t a costume—it’s a canvas.
My Takeaway
This season has reminded me that fashion doesn’t always have to be about reinventing the wheel. Sometimes it’s about leaning into traditions, interpreting them in your own way, and making them feel fresh again. Tartan—whether it’s a loud, colorful plaid or the refined Prince of Wales check—is the perfect example of that.
So, if you’re still on the fence about embracing tartan, consider this your nudge. You don’t have to overhaul your entire wardrobe. Start with a coat, a skirt, or even just a scarf. See how it feels. Chances are, you’ll wonder how you ever went a fall without it.
Because let’s be honest—if you’re not wearing tartan this season, you really are missing out.
