Tartan has been trending all Fall long, and it looks to be holding strong all through the winter months ahead. If you’re like me you already have a plaid scarf and plaid flannel shirt (or two) in your wardrobe. So when I saw this dress it was a “gotta have it” moment. Aside from its holiday-ready color palette, its midi length and classic, tailored silhouette make it as versatile as it is flattering.
If it’s not obvious from these pictures, my photographer and I mis-timed shooting this post and ended up chasing daylight into night. Still getting used to how fast it gets dark these days. Lesson learned. Shooting later meant the Christmas lights were out, so I hope their sparkle makes up for me being a bit cold and tired and less-than-sparkly. But this plaid dress was too good not to share!  Believe it or not, there’s actually a “tartan finder.” Who knew. After perusing all the patterns, I think this plaid is a modern take on the Stewart tartan, with red/yellow/green/blue on a base of black. And speaking of patterns, I love how the shirtwaist top plays up the plaid vertically, while the skirted bottom plays it up diagonally. A set-in waistband and buttoned cuffs finish it all off.

I’ve styled this dress for day, but I’ve already got plans for a more dressed-up look for (date) night. I’d unbutton the top and let a lacy black cami or bralette peek out. Instead of opaque black tights, I’d opt for lace or fishnet ones. And I’d finish it all off with a sexy black pump like my fave Valentino Rockstuds (seen here) and a black clutch or mini bag. I could also see this dress unbuttoned and belted kimono-style over a turtleneck, jeans and booties. Did someone say holiday brunch?

Because it was seriously freezing, layering on this faux fur vest was both fun and a necessity. Mine is black, but a white or ivory one would look lovely, too. For added color, I went with the head-to-toe pop of a red pom pom beanie and red suede boots (both seen here). I’m also showing off my Tiffany T bangle from a Christmas past. The whole collection is so chic and absolutely covetable. Hint, hint…Santa.

Due to the darkness, I’m not sure you can spy the mini Christmas tree in my see-through tote (previously seen here). But you definitely can’t miss this Pizza & Porta Christmas Tree deal!

Dress: (H&M — I typically wear a 4 but sized up to a 6.) Love this velvet dress, as well as this ruffle hem one.

Vest: (old. I.N.C.) Similar here (also in a beige melange) and here.

Beanie: (old, Kate Spade) Love this, this and this.

Boots: (old, Topshop) Similar here, here and here (40% off!).

Bag: (old, Mango) Luxe version here and more affordable here.

Photos by Kristin Moore-Gantz, taken on location at Porta and SouthHouse.