The Expensive-Looking Print Taking Over Autumn—and How to Style It.

There is a print that can make a simple jumper look considered, give an ordinary coat real presence and turn trousers into the most interesting part of your outfit. This autumn, it is checks. From quiet windowpane patterns to bold tartan, checked pieces are appearing across the season’s fashion coverage, including coats, skirts and tailoring. (marieclaire.co.uk)

The appeal is that checks already bring several colours and a sense of structure to an outfit. You do not need an expensive designer piece to get the effect. Choose a checked item with a print you genuinely like, pick one colour from it, and repeat that colour in the rest of your look. A brown and cream check, for example, can work beautifully with a cream knit and brown boots.

A checked coat is the easiest way to make the trend feel grand. Throw one over black trousers and a plain top, or wear it with jeans and a fine knit for daytime. Look for a coat that sits well at the shoulders, closes comfortably and has enough room for your usual layers. A beautiful print cannot rescue a coat you dislike wearing.

For a checked skirt, try this affordable outfit formula: checked midi skirt, plain fitted knit, tights and knee-high boots. A soft cream jumper makes the look elegant; a burgundy one adds richness. If your skirt has a fuller shape, a neat top lets its movement stand out. If it is straight or tailored, try a more relaxed knit tucked loosely at the front.

Checked trousers can be just as easy. Start with checked wide-leg trousers, a simple white shirt, a belt and loafers. For colder days, change the shirt to a fine black roll-neck and add a long coat. The print does the work, so the other pieces can be clothes you already own.

When shopping on a budget, try second-hand shops and resale sites as well as the high street. Check that the pattern lines up reasonably at visible seams, that the fabric feels comfortable and that you can picture at least three outfits with the piece. An affordable find becomes far more valuable when you reach for it throughout the season.

You can also start small. A checked scarf worn with a solid-colour coat gives you the autumn mood without committing to a new outfit. Then, if you fall in love with the print, a skirt, pair of trousers or coat can follow.

The most expensive-looking outfit is rarely the one with the highest price tag. It is the one where the colours make sense together, the clothes fit well and the wearer looks at ease. This autumn, one good checked piece might be all your wardrobe needs.