Tartan Skirts Are Defining My Winter Wardrobe

I wore a school uniform for the majority of my academic life—and I absolutely despised it. But eventually, the familiarity made me comfortable, and before I knew it, tartan skirts became my security blanket.

Characterized by a classic criss-cross pattern, the Scottish-inspired garb was an absolute staple in the ’90s. And much to my delight, it’s back for another spin around the trend cycle in 2026.

As someone who has built up quite the collection of checkered skirts over the years, I can attest to the fact that they’re beyond easy to style. Whenever I’m stumped for an outfit, I’ll pair one with a button-down or a sweater. It’s a low-effort look that boasts a high reward.

Ahead, you’ll find three of my favorite tartan minis, along with notes on how I prefer to style them.

Danielle Prescod

(Image credit: Danielle Prescod)

To prioritize warmth and comfort, I paired this brown kilt with an oversized sweater that makes me feel like I’m on Daria (IYKYK). I anchored this look in knee-high boots, and no, I’m not wearing tights because it was actually quite warm the day I took this picture.

However, I should point out that in high school, I trained my legs to never be cold (the most uncool thing you could ever do was wear pants as your uniform).

Olive Micro Skirt

Aritzia

Olive Micro Skirt

Dissh, Flint Black V Neck Knit Jumper

Dissh

Flint Black V Neck Knit Jumper

STAUD, Women's Henry Boots

STAUD

Women’s Henry Boots

Houndstooth Pattern Contrast Bag - Kids | Mango Niger

MANGO

Houndstooth Pattern Contrast Bag

Danielle Prescod

(Image credit: Danielle Prescod)

NovaCheck, Burberry’s iconic tartan pattern, is one of the most famous prints in luxury fashion. So, I consider it very necessary when crafting an assortment of tartan skirts. I paired this piece with a sheer turtleneck and a teddy quarter-zip (which I bought before the style began trending again, thank you very much).

I decided to complete my look with short Chelsea boots. I love an ankle-length boot with a plaid skirt because it feels so youthful. This pairing is very sporty and playful. It’s the kind of outfit I would wear when I want to appear more put-together on a weekend.

Check Wool Mini Kilt in Sand Beige - Women | Burberry® Official

Burberry

Check Wool Mini Kilt in Sand Beige

Intimissimi, Modal Cashmere Ultralight High-Neck Top

Intimissimi

Modal Cashmere Ultralight High-Neck Top

The Lucia Half Zip - Taupe / Xs

Year of Ours

The Lucia Half Zip

Steve Madden, Jones Chocolate Brown Suede

Steve Madden

Jones Chocolate Brown Suede

Clemence Picotin Lock 18

Hermès

Clemence Picotin Lock 18

Danielle Prescod wearing a button-down, a plaid skirt, and a cardigan

(Image credit: Danielle Prescod)

Last summer, I went to Scotland and I was determined to bring back an authentic tartan kilt. I was so lucky to find this one on our last day there. This is such a classic Scottish essential, and it even comes with a big silver safety pin.

The great thing about plaid is that it often contains several accent colors, which makes it fun to style. Here, I paired my skirt with a yellow sweater to pick up the subtle yellow shade in the tartan. Finished with a white button-down shirt, black tights, and pointy flats, this outfit serves as a perfect nine-to-five uniform.

Women's Wool Cocktail Pleated Mini Skirt Holiday Tartan - Cocktail Holiday Tartan / Xs