The menswear print for this season is checks – modern micro checks, bold tartans or sophisticated Prince of Wales – anything goes as long as it’s checked.
The AW15/16 menswear collections were printed with checks in all colours and sizes. Slim-fit tartan suits in grungy red, mustard and grey were the suit style of choice at Topman whilst Dunhill took inspiration from the sixties, layering classic brown, navy and blue checked shirts with cropped checked macs, in larger contrasting prints.
Tailoring and checks are a match made in heaven, and the great thing about checks is that they are so versatile. Prince of Wales checks in refined, understated colours make a classic style statement in the office or at a formal engagement, whilst bold, bright tartans are an eye-catching addition to a funky evening get-up.
Check-it-out – here are five key pieces to work the menswear check trend.
Check Lumbar Jacket
Bellfield Paramount Sherpa Lumber Jacket, £70, The Idle Man
Work two trends in one, shearling and check, with this laidback lumber jacket from Bellfield. The shearling collar and red and black check print make an effortless style statement.
Casual Check Shirt
Globe Amber Shirt, £45, Topman
Amber checks shine bright in this on trend long-sleeved shirt from Topman, made from textured yarn dye. Wear with jeans and a sharp blazer for a modern smart casual look.
Check Suit
Brown Check Skinny Fit Suit, £160, Topman
Make a style statement in this Prince of Wales checked suit, style it with a woollen roll-neck jumper and shiny shoes. The single-breasted two-button jacket can be worn with the matching skinny-fit trousers or is equally dashing on its own over a crisp white shirt buttoned-to-the-top, with burgundy tie and straight-cut trousers.
Check Duffle Coat
Wool Blended Checked Duffle Coat, £99, Uniqlo
Paddington Bear knew he was onto a good thing with his navy duffle coat. The duffle coat is a quintessential British style piece. This dark green and navy check number from Uniqlo is lightweight, warm and comes with a hood.
The great thing about duffle coats is that they can be dressed up or down, they work well worn over a suit and look equally good with a pair of jeans or chinos.
Tailored Check Shirt
Thomas Pink Finlay Check Slim Fit Shirt, £99, House of Fraser
Boys in pink make the girls wink, this navy and pink check shirt from Thomas Pink will do the trick. The Finlay shirt is slim-fit for a more tailored look, 100% cotton and comes with adjustable button cuff with ‘Pink’ secret stitching. Also available in green and yellow check or grey and navy check.
