Classic doesn’t have to mean boring. When our clothing is classic, it’s timeless, sophisticated and versatile. This means we spend a little less money buying just statement items, and more time creating a capsule wardrobe. Not only is it friendlier on your budget, but it’s also less tough on the environment.


What is a capsule wardrobe? It’s a wardrobe built on staples - a classic shirt, basic tees, an aviator jacket… Pieces that can be styled in various ways. But these items don’t have to be plain - after all, there are timeless patterns that can be worn no matter the season.


Checks are one of these patterns that just never fade out of our lives. They can add a casual, playful touch to our outfits, all while appearing dressed up, or dressed down. They are versatile and come in various different types of clothing - not just shirts!


Want to know how to update your check looks? Read on to find out more…

 


 

The Check Shirt Jacket

 

 

The check overshirt is a modern take on outerwear. Its oversized fit gives a casual vibe to your outfits, all while appearing modern. Plus, the fit allows you to layer up underneath without appearing bulky, so you can plan some brilliant yet warm outfits for the season ahead.


The key to a polished outfit? Colour coordination! Team your knitwear to one of the colours running through the checks and you’ll look like you have it all together - even on days when you don’t! Colour coordination always elevates an outfit and makes it look more expensive and luxurious than it actually is. On-point styling is the most important part of having an on-trend wardrobe.

 

Our check overshirts look perfect over our equally classic roll-neck knits in an extensive colour palette. You can opt for natural, olive, nutmeg… the choice is yours! We even have statement shades such as Chilli that will brighten up your autumn/winter looks.

You can also throw our overshirts over our zip-up cable knits which will give a sporty edge to your outfits. Our olive zip-up will look perfect under our brown or navy jackets for a more autumnal spin on a casual outfit.


Want to keep in with the casual vibes? Then opt for our loungewear! Our hoodies will look cool and urban under a check jacket. Again, colour coordinate for maximum effect! Alternatively, if you want something suaver, wear your basic fitted shirts under an oversized check jacket for an outfit that is suitable for your everyday activities.

 


 

The check shirt

 

The check shirt is a classic, and it’s the first piece you think of when it comes to patterns. And though it’s pattern that has survived trends past and present, it’s time to modernize it! Forget everything you knew about the classic check shirt, and get playful with your styling.


Needless to say, the check shirt looks good with dressier pants. Here, the natural tone of our peach finish chinos brightens up the ensemble, plus the fabric adds texture to your outfit.

We all know that checks can look a bit dark, so a splash of colour will do no harm, especially when there is white running through the check print. Adding lighter-coloured pants will make your outfits less drab and more striking - just avoid those puddles!


The check shirt can be worn on its own, but where is the fun? Autumn/winter is the best season for experimenting with your style, and it is also the season for layering up! We recommend wearing your check shirt over our roll-necks. This is not only to wrap up warm but also to liven up your knitwear. Our zip-up cable knits also look picture-perfect under our check shirts.


Now you know how to style our check pieces James Harper-style, it’s your turn to impress us with your wardrobe concoctions! Be sure to tag us on Instagram at @jamesharperclothing to show off your daily looks!