THREE WAYS TO WEAR THE GRUNGY PLAID TREND

I was recently contacted by Helen from vouchercodes.co.uk and asked to take part in a styling challenge. My aim was to create three looks, all of which needed to convey the "grungy plaid" trend, and each look needed to be suitable for a different occasion, for example a day out, a day in the office or an evening with friends. So, with a budget of £80 I hit the high street and started my hunt for three perfect plaid pieces!

When first faced with this trend challenge my thoughts immediately jumped to the classic "British punk" look from the 1970s, (think red heritage tartan and studs), but with a darker, grungier 90s twist. My first look therefore, features a cute little red tartan skirt from New Look and some studded creepers from Topshop - I would wear this look during the day, perhaps out with friends in town or in the pub.

TARTAN SKIRT, £17.99 FROM NEW LOOK 

My next aim was to create a look suitable for work... I guess this was a tricky one because it depends what type of job you have, but I personally have a relatively laid back job where I can dress casually, so for my "work look" I chose this lovely, orange checked shirt from Bershka. The fabric is so soft and it's really comfortable - I can't believe it was only £19.99! I paired it with a navy, slouchy cardigan because the colours worked really well together, and then added a simple black skirt and grungey DMs.

TARTAN SHIRT, £19.99 FROM BERSHKA

Last but not least, I chose to put together an evening outfit. I came across this cool checked dress in Zara and fell in love with it immediately! I don't even really like red, but it's so cute and the little white collar is lovely! I think it works really well with this leather jacket to, as it makes it a little more grungy and also compliments the black in the design.

CHECKED DRESS, £29.99 FROM ZARA 

What do you make of the "grungey plaid" trend this season? Will you be buying into it? I personally can't get enough of the heritage tartan that's popping up all over the place, and these new, brighter checks are super fun and really freshen the winter wardrobe! I did some street style over the London Fashion Week period and plaid was EVERYWHERE! I will get the photos up soon I promise!