The Trend #2: Tartan

River Island black and white checkered dress / New Look slouch sweater / Topshop purple top / River Island black leather jacket / River Island oversized patterned jacket / Mango beige coat / Warehouse white jacquard skirt / Topshop checkered leggings / Office peep toe platform shoes / Office blue sandals / Forever 21 pouch bag / Topshop Boots / Olivia Burton watch

Something happened to me in the lead up to Christmas. I don't know if I was just feeling festive or what, but I started an epic search for the perfect tartan scarf like a woman possessed. I'm the first to admit that when I have an image of something in my head, I can become pretty fussy when it comes to finding the real thing, so unsurprisingly, my mission was unsuccessful and I saw my tartan dream disappear before my eyes followed by a trail of highland dancers (no more Scottish stereotypes, promise). That was until Christmas day, when I received the one - a classic tartan scarf in the ideal shade of red that has scarcely left my neck since. After dipping my toes into those tartan waters I've become quite the fan, and it looks to be a trend which won't be going anywhere any time soon.

A pair of tartan trousers may be a bit reminiscent of golfing attire for some people, but there are so many good options out there that there has to be something for everyone. I really like these checkered leggings from Topshop which would look great with a slouchy, oversized jumper for a casual look. Keeping everything else simple, I'd finish off with a tailored coat and boots to really let the bold check make a statement.

Having said that, just because you're wearing one pattern doesn't mean you have to stop there; a monochrome print jacket paired with this colourful tartan top and a plain a-line skirt is eye-catching without being overwhelming. Add huge, chunky heels for an unexpected take on smart casual with a nod to the '60s.

The final outfit is for those of us who can't quite imagine a tartan evening dress being quite right for us; if you're going a little more understated, this monochrome checked dress with a classic slip shape and lace detail is perfect. I'd sling on a leather jacket, grab a white clutch and finish it all off with some electric blue sandals for a pop of colour.

If, like me, you spend your evenings internet shopping (and being generally successful in resisting the urge to buy anything) and your weekends shopping...in shops (and generally failing at resisting the urge to buy anything), you will no doubt have seen enough tartan to last you a lifetime recently, but it has to be said that there really are some gems out there. Now I won't be rocking a Vivienne Westwood tartan suit any time soon but I may have purchased those checked leggings a couple of weeks ago and definitely have my eye on that dress too...someone please restrain me.