Tartan back in fashion for Christmas 2013

A tartan coat from high street chain Zara. Picture: Contributed

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TARTAN has been around for centuries, but the traditional patterns are experiencing a resurgence in the world of fashion. We take a look at the top tartan trends for this Christmas, and the best ways to pull them off.

Tartan is a little piece of Scotland that can be showcased by everyone. Traditional dark reds, blues, greens and purples continue to be the most popular, however bold colours and interpretations of the traditional fabrics are now appearing on catwalks and the high street.

It goes without saying that tartan is a print with a festive edge and it’s an absolute must-have for your Christmas 2013 outfit. Here’s five ways to make tartan work for you this Christmas.

BLAZERS

Tartan shoes from Zara. Picture: Contributed

Pair a quirky tartan blazer, such as this double breasted checked blazer from Zara (£69.99), with a simple smart pair of suit trousers for a statement look.

Trousers such as these wool blended suit trousers from Mango (£44.99) are ideal to partner with the jacket as they add an effortless sophistication to the look.

TROUSERS

Match eye-catching trousers, such as these smart grey and red tartan trousers from River Island (£35.00), with a more subtle top piece such as this black wool batwing jumper from Hobbs (£79.00), to make the bold tartan print stand out.

Finish the look with black patent ballerina shoes from Office (£50.00) and a large bag, like this DKNY leather tote bag, available at House of Fraser (£255.00).

SHOES

Add a pair of tartan shoes to a plain dark outfit to give the look a little Scottish glamour. These bright red tartan pumps by Ribbon from Bank (£20.00) are ideal to bring your look on-trend.

BAGS

A tartan bag, be it a backpack, tote bag or satchel, gives a chic twist to any ensemble. This Vivienne Westwood multicoloured dome bag, available at House of Fraser (£450.00), can bring a unique tartan twist to your look.

SCARVES

The easiest way to bring a dash of tartan festiveness to your wardrobe is the good old-fashioned tartan scarf. For both ladies and gentlemen, a simple tartan scarf allows a hint of December’s definitive pattern to be worn by anyone. Scarves such as these lambs’ wool scarves from the Edinburgh Woollen Mill (£12.00) are perfect.

Tartan’s comeback could lead the way for other Scottish textiles to follow suit, such as Harris Tweed and Ayrshire lace, which was showcased by Nicola Sturgeon at the last week’s white paper launch. So stay on trend with tartan this December and get festive with the essential style statement for this Christmas.