Check It Out: Playing With Plaid

I have a few thoughts on the plaids and the tartans, as like the shearling and faux furs there is much plaid playing out this season.

Yes, I like it but like all good things a little bit can go a long way.

Unlike the gorgeous Chanel models I can’t see me wearing plaid from head to toe, unless I audition for a part in Outlander and this late in the game Catriona Balfe need not fear.

Checks can be super smart, incredibly cosy and surprisingly easy to wear; it can also look downright ageing. Tweed à la Chanel can be stunning; other tweeds can add 20 years without even trying.

Plaid needs clever curating and accessorising. Like leopard print I’m best with a one-hit piece and a piece to make a subtle statement. Novice wearers might even prefer to work up, trying a scarf or socks for starters.

Me, my favourites are plaid trousers. I found some last year in my old school tartan (yes I know, what was that all about) and I accessorised them with all black. They were a well worn and successful add on to my essentials. This year I will venture further and look at plaid jackets – a casual style I can wear every day. I am not brave enough to do a “double check” unless the fabric is a very quiet Prince of Wales or a herringbone plaid.

These weaves, a little like floral are an acquired taste.

As I don’t wear huge patterns, I don’t gravitate towards bold tartans. A scarf for colour can work but in a pant, jacket or coat I prefer the quieter tones and checks. Bold plaids in trousers can be unsightly from the back when the print has a large repeat.

Not too many derrieres need increasing, rather the latter ;)