Tricky Tartan

Tartan is in trend. And if you reacted the same way as I did to that sentence, your face would mirror that of disgust, with your nose scrunched and eyebrows pulled down. Tartan is such a tricky pattern to wear as you risk either looking full on goth or like you belong in the hills of Scotland and unfortunately, I have born witness to both disasters on the streets of Manchester.

But despite any initial woes, there are ways to wear this trend without looking like you belong in the "What not to wear" column of People magazine, you can do this, the two of us shall venture into the world of tartan and emerge looking on trend and undeniably cute. And whats best is that we can do this on a budget.

[This Zara Tartan cape worn over a slinky H&M Jumpsuit teamed with a H&M felt cap and clutch is perfect for a smart casual evening in the city - swap those Miu Miu Loafers for a more reasonably priced pair of statement flats and you're good to go! Try pairing a statement tartan item with more neutral pieces for an on trend yet sophisticated look.]

[Try a tartan scarf with an all black outfit for both a pop of colour and a little edge. We all have those days where we feel like going darker and the red tartan scarf brings an edge. Primark sells red tartan scarves for £5, so there is no need to break the bank!]

[These tartan slacks from H&M are not dissimilar to the much more expensive equivalent from Zara and to be honest, it is difficult to tell the difference! If red isn't your colour, opt for a blue tartan and tone it down with a cream slouchy jumper and oversized plain black coat. Throw on a pair of chunky chelsea boots and a simple black handbag and you are good to go! For extra edge, pick up a set of midi rings which are everywhere - they feel a bit odd at first but do add something extra to your outfit!]

[Yet another tartan trousers and cream jumper combination; if it is a bit warmer where you are, swap the trousers for a statement tartan skirt (you can find these everywhere including Zara and Topshop), making the outfit more casual with clubmasters and some loafers which are definitely a wardrobe essential!]

For more sets, follow my polyvore!

Are you going to take a risk this season and invest in a statement tartan piece or play it safe with a plaid accessory? Let me know in the comments below!