This traditional fabric has long been linked with revolutionaries. Look back and there is Mel Gibson rampaging across the Highlands in Braveheart, tartan thrown over one shoulder.
For this season our battalion of designers decided to think outside the traditional plaid's box, took this familiar checks in an unexpected direction blanketed the runway with tartans, plaids in soft silk taffeta rather than wool.
This fall-favoured pattern got a glamorous makeover by Diane von Furstenberg with fluidity, Luella mixes English eccentricity with rock'n' roll rage and Marc Jacobs is going back to grunge. Rebellious Alexander McQueen blends Victorian romance with Highlands-warrior chic.
The results seem to be this autumn's plaid is neither Lady of the Manor nor punk but rather a new hybrid and all the more wearable.
When buying
Tartans, most often seen above the knees of schoolgirls and Scots, are showing up this season in long skirts, suits, pants, jackets, coats and dresses. At times in real life, you may want to skip the look and add the trendy pattern in small doses like a bangle or scarf to makes a statement .
Pencil skirt
The sleek pencil skirt can go from day to night in a snap — just trade in your pumps for knee-high boots and you'll be ready for the evening. The clean look of tartan is perfect to show your figure to advantage; try pencil skirt with a crisp white shirt for some feminine appeal. The look is surprisingly sophisticated, even for the day.
Dress
If you want to wear something a little more full, a little more structured and not frilly then try a strapless silk taffeta tartan dress with stilettos to show a little tartan pride.
Bags
Who said skirts and shawls were the surest way to show the tartan trend? Try a Tartan bag over your shoulder and you'll be rolling style strikes all season long.
Cap
The latest trendy accessory includes a classic plaid print cap. It'll keep you warm and looking chic throughout the cool months.
Shoes
Try a pair of plaid ballerina shoes or boots with basic black jeans and T-shirt for the day to catch the attention of everyone around you.
Now it is high (land!) time for you to make your own Scottish statement and lead the crowd.
- The correspondent is an international AICI certified image consultant and stylist.
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