Checkmate: Styling The Season of Checks

Tartan. Houndstooth. Gingham. Buffalo Check Madras.

With such an infinite number of checks styles, it’s no wonder plaid patterns have been tapped as a key trend this fall!

We’ve heard from some clients that they aren’t confident about how to infuse these designs into their wardrobe.

But here’s the good news: plaids aren’t hard to style; it’s just about learning how to style them.

With checks on course to dominate, it’s about time we nipped any fears of infusing these fashion-forward patterns in the bud and showed you ways they can elevate any outfit!

Join us as we spotlight our favorite checks & discover how our stylists would incorporate them with chicness this season!


ARGYLE

IN CHRISTINE’S WORDS

Argyle is a timeless classic and has been around since the 17th century.

It’s long been associated with golf attire and is a staple in the preppy world. But, don’t worry. If preppy is not your style, don’t let that stop you from wearing it.

Paired here with a slouchy, barrel denim, suede boots, a touch of animal print and… what… a houndstooth scarf – don’t be afraid to mix your checks!

Add a pop of red on top and you’ve just made “argyle” modern and edgy.

CHRISTINE’S LOOK

Sweater: White & Warren Cashmere Argyle Crew Sweater

Denim: FRAME Low Slung Barrel

Boots: STAUD Wally Ankle Boots

Handbag: Veronica Beard Dash Animal-Print Calf Hair Clutch Bag

Hat: Gucci Wool hat with Horsebit

Scarf: Veronica Beard Houndstooth Wool Scarf


HOUNDSTOOTH

IN BEN’S WORDS

Houndstooth is a duotone pattern that originates back to ancient Europe.

It gained popularity in Scotland in the 1800s in the form of suiting and jackets and was adopted by high society when designers like Christian Dior used it in the 1950s.

This jacket is an example of a more exploded version of houndstooth, which makes this a great statement jacket.

Pairing it back to a turtleneck and leather pants gives a casual-chic vibe for a night out with friends!

BEN’S LOOK

Jacket: ME+EM Fitted Crop Jacket

Sweater: FRAME The Cashmere Fleck Turtleneck

Leather Pant: FRAME Le Slim Palazzo Leather

Boots: Marc Fisher Novella Block Heel Bootie

Belt: DIOR 30 Montaigne Loop Belt

Earrings: Adina Reyter 25mm Tube Hoops


BUFFALO CHECK

IN BRITT’S WORDS

Buffalo Check is typically seen in red and black and is of Scottish origin, but this red and ivory feels fresh for fall. Here, we played with masculine and feminine details to create a balanced look.

First, we leaned into the rugged tradition of the warm plaid by complementing with a green utility jacket, but relied on the tailored silhouette of the pants to offset.

The bold metallic earrings, leather loafer, and luxe suede bag also provide textural elements to make the look pop!

BRITT’S LOOK

Pants: Boden Gingham Cotton Blend Smart Straight Leg Pants

Jacket: Annie Bing Luca Suede Jacket

Sweatshirt: Favorite Daughter Cropped Collegiate Sweatshirt

Button Up: FRAME ‘Boy’ Shirt

Loafers: Miu Miu Suede Ruched Mocassin Loafers

Earrings: Jenny Bird Margaux Puffs

Bag: SIMKHAI Khai Suede Hobo Bag

Bonus! These cute, cozy socks: Jenni Kayne Cashmere Socks


This trend has been checked!

Ready to discover our other seasonal style favorites? Get our full Fall/Winter ’25 Forecast: Our Trend Report is out now. Click here to download your free copy.

For personalized fall outfitting, don’t forget to book your appointment with one of our professional personal stylists today.

Stay tuned for next week’s blog – Subscribe now if you haven’t already.


We’ve got some exciting news…

We’re happy to share that Wardrobe Therapy is partnering with The Harmony Project to support Encore, their new, free standing store project!

It will provide clothing, household goods, toys, and more at no cost to our neighbors in need. 

Connect with your stylist to receive a list of items we are now accepting for donation on Encore’s behalf!


Keep Making Everyday a Runway!

Follow us on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, and LinkedIn for styling tips, outfit inspiration, team updates, fashion news, and so much more!

Picture credits: All graphic images elements used in this blog were sourced from their respective linked product sites. Featured images in introductory paragraph and closing paragraph sourced from Pinterest. Featured images of close-up prints linked to respective sources.

Elizabeth Bean Smith

Elizabeth is the Founder & Co-Owner of Wardrobe Therapy. She founded the company in 2006 for individuals seeking help with their personal style and image.

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *