The tartan skirt is back in fashion

The fashion industry is about traditional clothing being removed from its original cultural and historical context and reinterpreted. Examples of this are cowboy boots, kimonos or military jackets – and this year also the kilt.

The kilt – a skirt is made from a piece of material

The so-called kilt originally comes from Scotland. More specifically from the Highlands in the 16th century. These days there was a large checkered piece of fabric that was first wrapped around the hips and then placed around the shoulders.

In the 18th century, this evolved into the more modern kilt, which was worn artfully folded around the hips and fastened with a brooch. The reason: The smaller version was more practical in everyday life and working life. With a few more seams, the cloth was finally transformed into a skirt.

Worth knowing: The traditional kilt is reserved exclusively for men.

Tradition meets trend

“To ensure more modernity, designers have opted for unusual cuts and lengths,” says style consultant Nina Pelkonen from Ulm. For example, the skirt is interpreted in a punky way at Vivienne Westwood, sustainably at Rave Review and luxuriously at Burberry. “But it doesn’t necessarily have to be a skirt – a dress or a classic checkered cover-up is also trendy at the moment,” she adds.

Speaking of check patterns. Well-known fashion brands show how the so-called tartan can be combined. Whether as a jacket, skirt or dress.

Wool pieces, eye-catching accessories and a wild mix

Chic and casual? That works! Designer Elisabetta Franchi proves this with her new collection at Fashion Week in Milan. The checked skirt is combined with a wide blouse, a coarsely knitted cardigan and wool socks, which give the outfit character.

Versace, on the other hand, relies on gloves made of patent leather and leather. The eye-catching accessory makes the look unexpected and refreshing. Strong eye make-up would also be conceivable.

Anyone who previously thought they couldn’t mix patterns will now be proven wrong. Namely from Lebor Gabala – because the fashion brand makes it clear that there are no limits when it comes to patterns this year.

Expert tip: “I would definitely choose diagonal lines in a checkered pattern. They just look more flattering,” says Nina Pelkonen.

What else is trending this year?

– Boots with a wide shaft

– Leopard print in any form

– Neutral colors such as earth tones and reds

– Leather coats

“However, the assumption that you are dressed fashionably just because you pay attention to the current fashion trends is not necessarily correct,” says style consultant Antonia Walter. “It can, but it doesn’t have to suit you,” she adds. It depends much more on which patterns, colors and cuts are flattering to you.

Feminine women, need feminine patterns

One thing is clear: as soon as a checked pattern is placed over female curves, for example, it distorts. Similar to horizontal stripes. Antonia Walter therefore recommends patterns that resonate with the curves. “I’m thinking, for example, of dots, waves or floral print,” says the expert. When it comes to colors, one of the key factors is skin tone – cool type, cool colors; warmer type, warm colors.

It is also important to feel comfortable. “It’s best not to make any compromises when choosing outfits,” says Walter. This means: As soon as you start to doubt or even pick at the clothes, it may not be suitable.