How to Wear Tartan this Autumn

Wondering how to wear tartan this autumn without looking like you’ve stepped out of the Highlands? You’re in the right place. This timeless print is a must-have for the colder months, perfect for creating remarkable tartan outfits with a rebellious edge. 

Our blog is packed with fresh, modern ideas for rocking tartan fashion the Joe Browns way - fun, fearless, and full of personality.

Ready to dive headfirst into tartan? The boldest way to wear this remarkable print is to let it be the star of the show. A statement tartan piece is an instant outfit that shows confidence and a brilliant sense of fun.

A vibrant tartan dress is a fantastic choice. Look for a style with a flattering silhouette, like a classic tea dress or a comfortable tunic dress. The beauty of a tartan dress is that it does all the hard work for you. For an effortlessly cool daytime look, pair it with chunky black boots to add a rebellious, grungy edge.

Alternatively, a magnificent tartan coat or blazer is the ultimate way to make an entrance. Thrown over a simple black jumper and your favourite jeans, it instantly elevates your entire look, adding a layer of warmth and undeniable character.

Sometimes, the smallest details can make the biggest impact. If you're just dipping your toe into the world of tartan, starting with an accessory is a fantastic way to add a pop of personality to your look without feeling overwhelmed.

A cosy tartan scarf is an essential for autumn. Wrapped around your neck, it can bring a splash of colour and character to a simple coat or piece of knitwear. A remarkable tartan handbag is another brilliant option, as it's a fun way to carry a bit of that rebellious spirit with you, even if the rest of your outfit is classic and understated. 

These small touches are the perfect way to complete your tartan outfits with a final flourish of character. 

Shop all our accessories here. 

Tartan can seem a little busy, but pairing colours is easier than you think. The simplest trick is to pick out one of the less dominant colours from the tartan pattern and match it with your top or accessories. Of course, you can never go wrong with classic neutrals. Tartan always looks fantastic paired with black, cream, or the rugged texture of your favourite blue jeans.

Read our blog on how to style jeans. 

While we love a classic red Royal Stewart tartan, don’t be afraid to explore other colourways! A rich green and navy Black Watch tartan offers a sophisticated, moody feel, while a vibrant pink or purple tartan adds a fun, playful twist to the classic print.

For the truly adventurous, why not try mixing your patterns? It’s a bold style move that shows absolute confidence. The secret to making it work is to vary the scale of your prints. Try pairing a large-scale tartan with a delicate ditsy floral, or a classic tartan check with some bold polka dots. As long as you wear it with a smile, you can pull anything off!

A tartan skirt is a wonderfully versatile piece that can be styled for any occasion. For a classic, cosy autumn look, a tartan mini skirt is perfect. Team it with some thick, opaque tights, a piece of chunky knitwear, and your favourite ankle boots. 

If you prefer a longer length, a floaty tartan midi or maxi skirt looks fantastic with a simple camisole or a fitted top tucked in to accentuate your waist. To complete the look, throw on a leather jacket for a perfect blend of punk-rock attitude and feminine charm.

A pair of tartan trousers is a remarkably bold choice that showcases true confidence and character. When your trousers are making such a brilliant statement, the key is to keep the rest of your outfit simple, letting them do all the talking. 

Pair them with a classic, plain-coloured top, like a black roll-neck jumper or a crisp white blouse. This creates a balanced look that’s effortlessly chic. For your footwear, you can’t go wrong with a pair of chunky black boots to add a rebellious edge, or some smart loafers for a more polished, preppy feel.