Checks come with a bunch of intersecting lines of various widths, colours and spacings. They have become one of the most plundered fashion tropes of all time. It goes beyond the geometric simplicity of checks, the almost infinite colour combinations, make this pattern a fashion staple.
Checks have a good habit of making the gentleman look refined by default. There is a huge variation of checks available. We will explore the five key styles to check off your list. These are:
Gingham
Prince of Wales
Windowpane
Tartan
Buffalo
Checks make good tailored suits, overcoats, formal shirts, accessories and casual shirts. Here are the 4 rules for wearing checks;
1. Small, compact checks will make large guys look even larger whereas if you’re short and slight, huge windowpane checks will make you look like whitebait caught in a drag net. If in doubt, a Prince of Wales check is almost always a perfect middle ground.
2. It is not a bad idea to mix patterns. The key is to vary the size of the checks and keep the whole outfit tonal in colour.
3. Check the dress code. Given their perception of flamboyance, checks should be avoided on the most formal of occasions.
4. Be careful with check trousers. Pick out a secondary colour from the check and use that with block-colour knitwear on your upper half for a matching look. Or, if you’re brave enough to clash patterns, ensure there is a contrast in either the size or the direction and tie it together in a tonal look.