How to style check patterns (and avoid any clashes!)

Check is one of the hardest patterns to get right - but it’s also one of the best! With warm colours and versatile styling options, it’s no surprise that check patterns are so popular in autumn - no matter what type it is. There are a few different ways of effectively styling it, including avoiding clashes and trying the zip-up test. 

It’s a crisp Sunday morning…

…and that brand new jacket is calling your name! But, all of a sudden, the doubts start kicking in: Does it really go with this sweater? Is a check scarf too much to add on? And why does it look completely different out and about than when you checked it out in the mirror? 

Check is one of the hardest patterns to style, but here’s the thing: it’s one of the greatest autumn patterns! In this guide, we’ll walk you through what it is that makes check patterns so good, what the different types are, and how you can style it effectively. 

Why are check patterns popular in autumn?

September arrives and suddenly check patterns are out in force! So, why does it remain so popular year after year? Well, there are a few reasons:

• Warm colours and tones - Whether it’s rich browns or deep blues, these are patterns that feel super cosy from the moment you pull them on - just what you need as the days get darker and the temperature drops!

• It deals well with the autumn weather - Pull on a plain coat and there’s no hiding from the inevitable muddy puddle splashes. Check patterns, on the other hand, hide it well -  perfect for heading out into the English countryside in style.

• It’s versatile - Whether it’s trench coats or corduroy, check patterns are able to work with anything you throw at it!

 

In short, whether your plans are more outdoor meander or morning brunch, check is the perfect autumn pattern - and we love it!

What are the different types of check patterns?

Yes - there are different types of check patterns! In fact, the term ‘check’ covers a whole family of patterns, and knowing exactly which one you’re wearing helps a great deal with styling. 

Here are a few of our favourites:

• Checkerboard - This consists of a larger, high contrast grid of even squares, like the Celeste Women’s Checkerboard Jumper. It’s bold, and works well when you’re out and about in town.

• Windowpane - Smart and subtle, windowpane check has thin lines that cross over to make larger squares. It’s just as perfect for the morning commute as it is for a brunch trip with friends!

• Tartan-style - Tartan is wider, layered stripes in several colours that cross over one another. This is a bolder and more relaxed look.

• Gingham - Small, even squares, usually with one colour a lighter shade. It’s the simplest iteration of a checked pattern and has a slightly playful feel that feels just as at home on the post-walk pub visit as it does nipping the dog out.

 

How to style check patterns in autumn?

Knowing the different types of check patterns is great - but styling it? That’s a whole other story! Fortunately, we’ve got some tips and tricks for you right here:

Avoid pattern clashes

There’s nothing worse than a checked pattern clash. When you’re putting your outfit together, it’s best to:

• Stick to one bold checked pattern in each outfit - Keep the rest plain or different textures.

• Keep one colour running throughout - If the check in your scarf is purple (like the Freda!), keep that colour popping up in the rest of your outfit for a more put-together look.

• Stick to a single colour family - Whether it’s warm berry tones or cooler blues and greens, keep them grouped together.

• See what your outfit looks like zipped-up - Your outfit needs to work across the day, not just when you’re heading out!

 

Decide on the main layer

Autumn has rolled around - and that calls for layers! But, here’s the thing: not all of them are on show at once. 

If there’s a bite to the air, put the check on your coat where it won’t be hidden away. The Ortega Women’s Waterproof or Firan Women’s Fleece are perfect options here, guaranteed to keep you protected from the elements without compromising on style.

If it’s mild enough to keep your coat open, let a middle layer carry the check and keep the coat plain.

Try the zip-up test

Before you leave the house, check the outfit in the mirror twice: the first time with your coat open and the second with it zipped. With the coat zipped, the only things on show are your coat, trousers, shoes, scarf and hat. 

The second is important - this is where you’ll really get to see how the patterns in your outfit really work together when none of them are hidden away. 

Mix check with texture

If two checks feel like too much, pair one check with texture instead. Whether it’s the Sara Women’s Sherpa Fleece with some cord trousers or the Firth Women’s Fleece with a plain shirt, there’s plenty of choices!

Check into autumn in style!

Dressing up in check patterns doesn't need to be complicated - keep to one bold check at a time and repeat a colour to tie it all together! 

Explore our full Modern Heritage collection over on our store and find the look that’ll keep you going through autumn.

For more styling tips and tricks, check out our blog, where you’ll find everything from Is Corduroy Back in Style? to How Trenchcoats Beat the Weather.