Credit: Megan Murray
Fashion
Tartan is the trend of the season: here are 3 ways to style it for Christmas
By Megan Murray
2 years ago
5 min read
Tartan is the word on everyone’s lips so, ahead of the festive break, writer Megan Murray styles three seasonal dresses that work especially well for mid- and plus-size fits.
There are times when I have to admit to being a fashion victim, but when the trend’s this good, I’m not complaining. A few months ago, if you’d suggested I wear a tartan outfit that wouldn’t look out of place in Outlander, I’d have raised an eyebrow. Yet here I am racking up plaid dresses like the laird of a Scottish castle.
Tartan in its many forms – from cheerful, traditional red checks to punk-esque, acid blue-tinged patterns – has been all over social media this month, with the list of stylists, content creators and celebs donning it growing longer by the day.
This week, seasonal inspiration has been off the charts courtesy of Charlotte Jacklin, who posted a picture of herself in a gorgeous, custom-made dress from Mary Benson, while the queen of versatile styling, Dahana, has been sharing every which way to rock a kilt.
And, when Alexa Chung shared her tartan ribbon-ended plaits, I mean… need I say more?
Small, independent makers and big labels alike have got in on the trend: I’ve been pouring over The Vampire’s Wife’s Wizard Of Oz Sky Rocket dress, which mixes joyful reds and blues across the brand’s iconic shape, while Matches Fashion has just enlisted Le Kilt onto its site with a collection of effortless tartan skirts.
But when it comes to beautiful, comfortable clothes created with a mid- to plus-size range in mind, I’ve got a few favourites in mind. For festive dressing, I’m gathering the best tartan pieces from brand-of-the-moment Eliza Faulkner, Cabbages & Roses and made-to-order offerings from Benjamin Fox, Studio Darla and Mary Benson.
If you’re looking for styling inspiration for December and beyond or just fancy a flurry of new brands to try, here are three looks I’ll be wearing this season.
Puff-sleeve partywear for Christmas Day
Am I the only one who gets the urge to dress up like I’m going to a children’s birthday party? I’m very much here for more toddler chic vibes in 2024.
I’ve been fawning over Instagram brand Benjamin Fox for years and instantly knew this wonderfully colourful take on the tartan trend would be my Christmas Day dress of dreams.
The Lucinda dress is handmade to order from 100% tartan silk dupion so sizing is customisable across bust, width and length. The puff sleeves bring a playful feel and more is most definitely more with this loo, so I added a large, silk red ribbon around the waist and embraced the red tights trend with matching patent Mary Janes.
Highlands glamour for New Year's Eve
After seeing the Tessa dress in red plaid from Eliza Faulkner everywhere, I was intrigued to see how it would fit. Good news! This dress is exactly what I was hoping for: adjustable ribbon straps can be tied to a length that suits you, and while the back is open, another bow means you can pull the shape tight or loose around your waist. Plus, the corset-style front is perfect for curves. When it comes to the details, I love the black velvet touches, which I nodded to with a matching hair ribbon and velvet heels (my Kate Spade shoes have sold out, but I love this pair from Penelope Chilvers).
Out of the three dresses, this style is most reminiscent of the Highlands dinner dance look that I’m aiming for, so I leaned into the historic feel with a Victorian-style shirt (try Aligne for a pussybow twist). I don’t usually wear an exposed back, so this also made me feel more comfortable.
Finally, for a sprinkle of party magic, sheer, dotty tights from Falke, red lipstick from Violette and a velvet clutch, like this one from Lulu Guinness, make the outfit cèilidh-ready!
Cottagecore plaid for winter walks
I’m channelling Elizabeth Bennet in this Cabbages & Roses Eliza dress, whose thick, lined skirt and gathered shoulders would be perfect for a misty, Pride & Prejudice-style winter walk.
Cabbages & Roses offers up to a size 16 in this style, which is naturally oversized and comfortably flowy. The Peter Pan collar and velvet details make this dress a treat to wear, while still feeling practical enough to spend the day in.
To lean into the cottagecore aesthetic, I paired it with an Anthropologie waistcoat, headband and a vintage basket bag from Straw London. I’m a huge fan of white socks and tights at this time of year, which I’m wearning with Ganni flats.
The best tartan buys of the season
Whether you’re totally committed and searching for a full new look or just fancy dipping a toe in the trend with a tartan accessory, here are the rest of the best tartan buys of the moment.
The Vampire's Wife Little ToTo bag
For festive parties, this delicate, drawstring bag is perfect for all your smallest essentials. I especially love the beaded tassels which amp up the drama factor.
Red tartan headband
A tartan headband is one of the easiest ways to bring a pop of pattern to your party season outfit. Top your favourite little black dress or jeans and heels combo with this colourful headwear for a festive feel.
La Veste Jason check trousers
La Veste is one of the coolest European brands out there, founded by Spanish stylist Blanca Miro and French designer Maria de la Orden. Check out their fun designs for making a statement, such as these fringed tartan trousers.
Do note, though, that sizing is labelled ambiguously as small, medium and large, and errs on the smaller side.
Flabelus x MDLO Mary Janes
I’m a long-time fan of Flabelus, whose sweet slippers and Mary Janes look almost too good to wear.
This on-trend collaboration comes in two delightful colourways: pink-green and brown-orange. It’s the ideal excuse to buy two pairs.
Images: Megan Murray; courtesy of brands
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