Cross Check

Acne Studios showcased full-checked looks…

… while Collina Strada reimagined the typically fall pattern with a fresh summer twist.

Unexpected individuality was the prominent theme of the season. Hopefully, it won’t be fleeting as designers embrace inventive styling, personality, and joy in the art of dressing. Buzzing is the emergence of Summer Plaid, which defined the catwalk as the fabric of the moment.

This heritage-inspired print has roots deriving from the Scottish Gaelic term plaide, originally referring to a blanket or cloak woven into distinctive checked patterns with unique designs for each clan, known as tartan. These enduring cultural patterns have evolved within contemporary fashion and taken on unexpected twists, finding new avenues within the preppy set, the rebellious punk rockers and ’90s grunge.

Receiving a modern upgrade, designers reimagined the pattern, putting it back in the spotlight. This time, it was often found in full-checked ensembles — only bigger and bolder — or mashed together with alternative clashing textiles. For a summer aesthetic, a mix of motifs was given the lightest of touches with The Row’s Tavishina coat. Dialed in for a refresh of the fall pattern was Collina Strada, whose breezy, oversized, washed-out toned pink and blue check mini dress felt truly made for summertime.

As for making a bolder statement, full-checked looks could be seen at Acne Studios, which created plaid clothing in all its current variations.

Kim Smith has been a professional wardrobe stylist in Honolulu since 2004. Born a true Londoner, Smith had a successful career in public relations in the fashion industry in London for more than eight years before moving to Hawai‘i in 2002. Smith’s work spans a vast array of magazines, retailers and television as well as working with individual clients on their specific style needs.

See her work at kimsmithstyle.com.