Hey guys, Elsa here. It is prime tartan season and I am happy as a clam! With cold weather, it is much easier to opt for pants and just stay warm and comfortable. For years, I would wear black pants and a black top with a plaid accessory around the holidays (which is still super cute). This was mainly because I was afraid to sport tartan beyond small touches. As desperately as I wanted to, I did not think I could pull off a plaid pant because of my larger figure. I was so wrong, anyone can pull off a tartan pant!
It is all about finding the right pant. I love these J.Crew ones, and I am equally as enamored with the Talbots Hampshire Ankle Pant, both are size-inclusive. I have both pairs and find they each work well, but if you are true plus-size, the Talbots pair is cut more specifically to plus figures.
So, I styled my favorite tartan pants 3 easy ways: with a t-shirt, a sweater, and a fleece! While I went for looks that had comfort and the everyday in mind, you could also style tartan pants with a silk cami, blazer, or a blouse for date night.
Look 1: Classic and Polished with a Cable-knit Sweater
I love a good cable-knit sweater. This Vineyard Vines option is size-inclusive, wonderful quality, and the cashmere is so soft. I find that with a bold pant, I am more inclined to go with a simpler top, but this sweater is so polished that it feels simple yet special at the same time. You could easily throw on a pair of pumps and head to your holiday party or a dinner in this look! I paired it with my red Chanel flats and favorite statement earrings.
Look 2: Chic and Cozy with a Dudley Stephens Fleece
Here, I styled the pants with a cozy and neutral Dudley Stephens Park Slope Fleece (size up, I wear the XXL and am a true 16w or 18r). I really love these fleeces, and while they are not entirely size-inclusive, they offer XL and XXL which is a great place to start. Becuase this fleece is structured and chic, the outfit looks instantly elevated and put together. It is much more presentable compared to wearing a sport fleece, like Patagonia, but with the same level of comfort! I added some feminine details with a bow statement earring and an embellished slingback.
Look 3: Easy and Casual with a Simple Tee
Given the pants are a little extra, I wanted to style them with a simple black tee to show how they have the ability to carry a look on their own, as well as how versatile they can be. I cannot say enough wonderful things about this size-inclusive bodysuit, I wear it with everything. I have turned everyone I know on to them, because they are that good (if in between sizes, size up)! The simple black tee makes the pants more casual and low-key, perfect for meeting up with friends or for a more laid-back event.
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So I’ve yet to purchase a pair of tartan pants. I’m usually really unsure if they’ll look good on me because of the bright colors and loud print and I’m a little curvy. But you’re seriously giving these pants life so I think I might take the plunge this year and snag a pair for myself! I think the simple tee with the pants is my favorite looks. I can often be so laid back and opt for comfort. Thanks for sharing Elsa!
Thank you Kirsten!! I think you would look fantastic in a tartan or plaid pant, you are stunning my friend!!
Nothing says “the holidays” better than a tartan. Just love those pants and the transformation of each style through accessories and tops, all of which are good fits to other garments in anyone’s wardrobe.
Thanks, Ellen! So glad you enjoyed this.
I’m always worried tartan pants won’t look good on my body, but I feel a little more assured now because they look so cute on you, Elsa! Love how you’ve styled them!
Thank you, Erin! I imagine you’d look fabulous in a pair of statement pants!