After making a gargantuan comeback last autumn, checks are proving to be just as instrumental for the new season. Last year, the key checked buy was undoubtedly the coat, which was showcased on both the runway and high street racks in every which way you can imagine. Big checks, little checks, bright checks, muted checks… You name it, the brands did it. The good news is that they’re still a major part of the style index for 2018, so you can continue to wear yours with confidence.
So if you’re anything like us, chances are you’ll likely be looking for a fresh way to wear your favourite autumnal pattern. Well, we’ve found just the thing for you. Right now, the shops (both cyber and brick and mortar) have hundreds of checked trousers on offer, and their appeal certainly isn’t lost on us. Chic enough for the office, cool enough for your off-duty outfits, and glossy enough for after dark outings, they’re fast becoming the solution of every dressing dilemma we present them with.
Much like their coat predecessors, checked trousers come in a multiple of lengths and hues, so you’ll surely find a pair that suits you, whatever your style. To help you find your stride soulmate, we’ve whipped up five entry-level checked trousers outfits for you to re-create. Featuring the must-have weaves (think tartan, grid and Prince of Wales), all you need to do is pick your preference. Sorry, jeans—it’s not you, it’s us.
Pastel
Checks don’t have to be monochromatic or sombre. Instead, look for playful pastel styles to give your autumnal wardrobe a refresh. Just add a colourful knit.
Unexpected it may seem, but this blue hue will suit all skin tones.
The belted waist will help add definition to your shape, counteracting the wide-leg cut.
Pouch bags are set to be all the rage for autumn/winter 2018.
Thanks to the grey shade, these heels will work with a multitude of outfits.
Related: The Trending Trouser Shape That Will Make Your Legs Look Twice as Long
Grid
Aside from grey checks, black-and-white grid motifs are one of the easiest to wear in stride form. They’re ideal for the office, too. Simply switch up the silver boots with loafers or block heels.
Knitwear doesn’t come more classic than camel mohair.
The cropped length on these trousers is just the right length for petite frames.
This It bag has been given a cool update with the addition of a blue tortoiseshell handle.
Show us a cooler pair of boots. We’ll wait.
Tartan
Tartan trousers might make you think of an American season’s greetings card, but they’re one of the coolest style statements you can make this season. Keep the rest of your look classic (a cream knit, trench and an elegant bag will do the trick), and they won’t seem so daunting to pull off.
The fact that this covetable trench comes with a built-in hood fills us with joy.
The cost per wear you’ll get from this jumper is unreal.
The cropped kick-flare hem makes these strides super flattering on curvy frames.
You can never go wrong with black-and-gold arm candy.
Related: Shacket to Blazer, These 9 Jacket Styles Will Never Go Out of Fashion
Windowpane
Typically larger than grid prints, windowpane checks will appease minimalists. Throw on a casual jacket to create the perfect high-low balance. Or, why not try clashing your checks with leopard print or florals?
Offset any prim outfit with the addition of a khaki utility jacket.
Made from a lightweight crepe, these trousers will hang elegantly from your frame.
Brighten up any tonal ensemble with a rich red handbag.
The easiest way to channel this season’s leopard-print trend is with a pair of shoes.
Related: All the New Season Shoe Trends We Want to Tell You About
Heritage
Stylish, versatile and appropriate for just about every occasion, we can’t imagine not having a pair of Prince of Wales check trousers in our wardrobe. Wear with a neutral colour palette for instant sophistication.
The scallop detailing on this shell top makes it look so much more expensive.
Trousers don’t get more timeless than these Warehouse numbers. Treat them well and you’ll be able to wear them for years to come.
Loop handles are one of the biggest bag trends of the season. Stay ahead of the game by investing early.
The kitten heels, slingback detail and white leather make these shoes an autumn wardrobe hero.
Trousers not really your thing? Turn your attention to the checked skirt that’s won the style set over.
-
We're Fashion Editors—Everything We Saw, Wore, Did, and Ate During NYFWLet's dive in.
-
Jenna Lyons's World: Her Go-To Red Lipstick, Her Latest Eyewear Collab, and the J.Crew Pieces She Still Wears TodayA true fashion icon.
-
Not Into Trends? Renée Zellweger's Winter Outfit Combo Is 100% ClassicJust as you are.
-
Emma Chamberlain's World: Her Warby Parker Collab, Two-Phone Rule, and Spiciest Fashion Takes"I just want to bring the most joy to people."
-
4 Anti-Trend Outfits I Spot Every Time I'm in EuropeClassic looks that are always in style.
-
3 Non-Holiday Ways to Wear Velvet This WinterYou're welcome.
-
Hailey Bieber Just Used the TikTok Styling Hack That Will Actually Go the DistanceI'm going to use it this weekend.
-
After 15 Years as a Fashion Writer, I Know These Free Style Tweaks Will Make a Big ImpactHow to give your wardrobe a new lease on life.
