Meet plaid’s classy cousin. Tartan. December is my absolute favorite time of year to wear tartan. This month is all about the tartan holiday style! Like Fair Isle sweaters, tartan is a classic look with Scottish roots (see my blog here on Fair Isle sweaters). Both are great style choices for the holiday season.
What is tartan?
Tartan is a patterned cloth consisting of crisscrossed horizontal and vertical bands in multiple colors (pretty much a fancy plaid). Tartan originated in woven wool in the Highlands of Scotland. Tartan is now made in varying materials. Tartan was first seen on kilts but now the traditional tartan plaid is seen on skirts, dresses, bow tie and ties, ribbon, shoes, bags and more!
When and how do I wear tartan?
Tartan is punchy, bright, festive and screams holiday merriment. Wear it for the entire holiday season! For a mature middle-aged woman, tartan should be dialed down slightly. We don’t want to look like a toddler whose mom dressed us for a family matching Christmas card! See below for some age appropriate tartan holiday styles and some tartan must haves for the holiday season. As you can see, my tartan attire is mostly from J Crew or J Crew Factory as they do tartan holiday style so well. I also find great tartan looks at Talbot’s also!
The J Crew perfect shirt in Stewart plaid. For an effortless holiday look, this button down shirt is (rightly named) perfect. Wear alone or layered under sweaters. It is tailored a bit so size up if you like your button downs more boxy. Dress it up or down. Pair with a pair of polka dot pants, jeans or even a skirt for cute holiday style.
These Cameron slim crop pants in Stewart tartan are show stoppers! I get so many compliments when wearing them. Every time. They are noticeable in a good way. Features a leg-lengthening 11-inch high rise and Perfecting Pockets™, which hold you in, lift you up and are really comfortable too. They are also warm and fully lined. The ones shown here were purchased last year. This year’s red/black multi color are even better Worn with Talbot’s button cuff sweater (available in many colors).
A casual tartan look from J Crew Factory in the woven collar sweater. It is actually not a sweater at all. More of a thin knit top. It is very light weight. What I love the most about this top is the layered look without any bulk as it is all one piece! It has a slight hourglass shape that is flattering too. This color tartan is sold out but some small sizes available in the buffalo check.
Tartan Accessories
For a mature look, wear tartan in moderation. This can be achieved by accenting with it. There are many ways to accent with tartan. Carry a tartan tote or throw on a tartan scarf with solids. You can also add a pop of color by wearing shoes or a headband in tartan.
Tartan for your Pet!
Other J Crew Factory Tartan Favorites
Other J Crew Tartan Favorites
