How to Actually Style Tartan for Fall 2026

If you're going to pick one tartan piece to invest in for fall, make it a jacket or trench. Outerwear pulls an entire look together instantly, meaning you can keep your base layer completely simple and still look like you put effort into getting dressed.

Marley takes a structured approach, pairing a cropped green-and-red tartan blazer over a crisp white button-down, styled with a camel corduroy midi skirt and dark brown Mary Jane heels. Alejandra brings in a subtle pop of pattern by carrying a tartan trench over a bright red collared knit and dark wide-leg denim. Meanwhile, Tyra gives a masterclass in pattern mixing: pairing a grey tartan blazer over a deep burgundy floral blouse, finished with brown corduroy trousers and matching wine-colored loafers.

If you want to make a statement without having to put in too much effort, a tartan midi or maxi dress is your best friend.

Kate pairs a muted blue-and-brown shirt dress with slouchy suede knee-high boots for a cool, 70s-inspired daytime vibe. Camri leans into sleek date-night energy, styling a vibrant red tartan midi dress with black pointed pumps. But Martha uses my personal favorite styling detail—draping a leopard-print coat over a green tartan shirt dress. Clashing two classic, heritage patterns creates an instant high-fashion look.

A classic tartan button-up is one of those office chic items in your closet that you can re-style a dozen different ways throughout the season.

Moon demonstrates exactly how to style a classic button-up, letting her vibrant tartan print stand out. It’s an effortless piece to tuck into wide-leg trousers, wear unbuttoned over a fitted white tank, or layer under a heavy crewneck knit once the weather really turns.

A pleated tartan skirt is a seasonal rite of passage, but the trick to making it feel current is avoiding the obvious pairings. Instead of defaulting to a plain white top, try leaning into contrasting knitwear.

Emmy pairs a red-and-green pleated tartan midi skirt with a red striped cardigan. Finished with black Mary Janes and a blue Balenciaga City Bag, the mix of stripes and tartan feels playful, textured, and very timeless.

Trends come and go, but taking timeless prints and styling them in your own personal way is what makes fall dressing in New York so fun. Whether you're clashing a pleated skirt with stripes or throwing a tartan trench over simple denim, Boden has mastered seasonal styling this fall, delivering rich color palettes, sharp tailoring, and unexpected silhouettes that feel right at home in New York City.