Polka dots were everywhere this summer, but checks are taking over for autumn. And while we always expected a heritage check or three when the weather turns, it's fair to say things have gone up a notch for autumn/winter 2026. Checks are everywhere right now and they're bigger (literally) and better than ever.
As someone who has apparently amassed multiple pairs of tartan trousers and several kilts of late, I'd like to think I'm a bit of an expert in checks (a checks-pert?). So, I've rounded up my key check pieces for autumn, along with ideas on how to style them so they look fresh for 2026. Here are my top buys.
The best wide-leg check trousers
I can't resist a checked trouser and a high-waisted, wide leg is my favourite silhouette. If you also love a baggy (yet tailored) trouser, head to Boden for its checked, wool-blend culottes, which are currently available on pre-order. These trousers look great paired with Boden's embellished argyle knit (see below). The perfect check-mate if you will.
I also own these Maeve plaid wide-leg trousers, which I wear with a chartreuse knit (one of the most popular shades for autumn) and brogues. Unfortunately, they're largely sold out in the petite leg-length so I had to have mine taken up slightly (I'm 5ft 4in).
If you don't like your trousers quite so wide, this Never Fully Dressed pair have a slimmer leg, but still bring all the rich, autumn colour. Sadly, the matching blazer is out of stock, but I'd style with a simple blue or denim shirt and loafers instead.
Never Fully Dressed Checked Straight Leg Trousers
Never Fully Dressed Checked Straight Leg Trousers
And Damson Madder's pair are a slightly more muted version of my Maeve favourites, which would look great with a simple navy or grey jumper.
The best kilts for autumn
The kilt's comeback can likely be attributed to the Traitors effect. Every year, we see Claudia in her Le Kilt with stompy boots and fabulous knits and spend weeks scouring the shops to find a high-street alternative.
Well, this year, the high street is prepared. You can find a kilt in every shade. My pick is this contemporary take on the classic kilt from Albaray. I love the knife-sharp pleats, brown check and double buckle detail. Wear with knee-high boots and chunky knit.
If you want more colour in your kilt, it's back to Boden (by way of John Lewis as this style is now sold out on the Boden site). This is a real standout piece thanks to the two contrasting checks, a blend created specially for the brand at a heritage Italian mill.
Alternatively, if you want something more muted, try this maroon and olive check. It will look gorgeous with chocolate brown boots and a bottle green polo or jumper.
For a more affordable take, this brown check midi from Monsoon would make a chic additional to your autumn wardrobe. Style with a fine-knit polo-neck (I love a pop of red with chocolate), layered under a pretty blouse and boots.
Monsoon Gracie Check Print Midi Skirt Brown
Monsoon Gracie Check Print Midi Skirt Brown
And if you want a petite length, head to Nobody's Child for this navy tartan kilt, which would look lovely with a bold blue knit.
Nobody's Child Navy Tartan Pleated Midi Skirt
Nobody's Child Navy Tartan Pleated Midi Skirt
The best argyle knits
The argyle is an autumn perennial but this year, it's had an upgrade, from embellished versions to Henley twists. This Boden embellished argyle would clash perfectly with the brand's tartan trousers above. It's already almost sold out on the site, but John Lewis still has stock.
Boden Embellished Geometric Crew Neck Jumper
Boden Embellished Geometric Crew Neck Jumper
Alternatively, this Henley take on the classic argyle would look good with jeans or chocolate brown cords.
Nobody's Child Henley wool mix collar detail ribbed trim jumper
Nobody's Child Henley wool mix collar detail ribbed trim jumper
I also love the oversized diamonds on this Seasalt knit, which is made from a soft merino wool blend. It also comes in a cerulean blue and navy colourway. I'd wear with a checked grey trouser – FatFace has a chic tapered pair.
And the oversized checks on this Brora jumper make a real statement. If you only buy one argyle, make it this.
The best checked funnel-neck jackets
As we're currently experiencing a second summer, combined with cooler mornings, the lightweight, funnel-neck jacket is having its moment in the sun.
This Zara jacket is my top pick. It's only available in a few sizes in the red colourway, but the brand has now brought it out in a rich green, too. Wear with this season's bargo (barrel-leg cargo trousers) and some slingback kitten heels.
If you're looking for something thicker to see you into winter, this Mango checked jacket, made from a wool blend, is a stylish option and would go well with a bold checked tartan trouser like the Boden pairs above.
And if you want to go full tartan and are after something more cosy, this knitted funnel-neck bomber has caught my eye.
Rockett St George Tartan Knitted Bomber Jackeet
