Tartan: The trend that keeps on giving

Tartan is one fabric that never seems to go out of style. It has had a journey: it’s been the staple clothing for Scots since the Middle Ages, as different clans adopted their own patterns of tartan, right up until modern times, when it has appeared on countless high street shelves. In the 1700s, wearing tartan even became a penal offence because the government in London wanted to crush the clan system. But today, genuine Scottish tartan is hard to find and expensive, with a select few companies selling authentic clan tartan.

Nonetheless, I think autumn and winter are when tartan shines the best, so it’s essential for anyone who is searching for a dark academia look

However, even after all this history, mainstream tartan is becoming less of a cultural symbol and more of a fashion statement to be constantly reimagined. In fact, it was a highlight on the London Fashion Week catwalk. And is it any surprise? Moody and stylish, tartan has continually been in high street fashion for decades, with celebrities like Mariah Carey, Victoria Beckham, and Rihanna all sporting the look. It can be used in countless ways – bags are common, but so are headscarves, bodysuits, and even bikinis. A summery bikini is certainly not where I thought tartan would go, but it somehow suits it perfectly well. Nonetheless, I think autumn and winter are when tartan shines the best, so it’s essential for anyone who is searching for a dark academia look.

I’ve always thought of tartan as dark and muted, but this season it’s getting a revamp. Designers such as Burberry are styling it in clashing neon colours like acid green paired with popping red. This trend takes everything we previously associated with tartan and strips it back, putting it in the era of neon punk – a place I had never thought we’d find it. I’m not personally a fan of neon, and one of the reasons I like tartan is because of its moodiness; I love the navies, the hunter greens, the burgundies, and the storm greys that make up the classic pattern we know and love. If you have the same opinion, do not worry: many high street shops still have the archetypal tartan style, like H&M’s navy skort. Whilst neon tartan may not be a trend I’ll be participating in, I can appreciate how it’s important to adapt it to modern times to keep it relevant. Conversely, if the dark colours of tartan have always put you off wearing it, this trend is definitely for you!

Tartan is certainly not new, but it is very much still relevant and is constantly being reshaped to be worn with other trends

Alongside the colour of tartan being adapted, the way it’s styled is also being paired with other trends. Waistcoats are yet another thing designers and shops are hot for right now. H&M also has a subtle grey tartan waistcoat on its shelves; if you don’t like overt tartan, this could be a great pick for you.

Another thing this season is all about is loose, asymmetrical shapes. And this is how everyone wants to wear tartan right now. Zara has a classy beige draped tartan shirt, which successfully takes part in both trends. Similarly, Primark is proudly showing off a pink and maroon asymmetrical tartan dress. I wouldn’t usually favour the colour pairing of pink with red or maroon, but in this instance, they complement each other without being too much. Burgundy nails and brown boots would certainly complete this look.

So, there you have it. Tartan is certainly not new, but it is very much still relevant and is constantly being reshaped to be worn with other trends. Whether you want to wear it with neon colours, a waistcoat, or an asymmetrical dress, there’s something in this trend for everyone.