Tartan shirts were a big trend during A/W ’07 and have appeared yet again on the A/W ’08 catwalks. I know it’s a bit early to start getting excited about winter fashion, but I do so love tartan. The question is, how will you wear it?

This winter’s look is far more daring than last year, stretching far past the bog-standard tartan print shirt and knee-high socks. It will see you wearing tartan dresses, skirts, jackets and full suits (for the brave) in a palette of clashing colours such as electric blue and eye-catching yellow.

It would be safe to say that you should take your cue from Dame Vivienne Westwood’s (who first championed the tartan look in the 1970’s) A/W ’08 shows.

Stunning tartan skirts, corsets and matching hats also seemed to provide style inspiration for other designers such as, Thakoon, Jaeger London and House of Holland who also showcased tartan dominated shows.

I love Westwood’s style, but I have to say that the D&G A/W collection really stood out for me this year. I will definitely be saving for their floor length boho-esque tartan ruffled dress, and sleek tartan fitted jacket (not worn together, of course).

The dress can easily be worn during the summer (I can image the outfit as we speak), and carried over into the winter – two season’s for the price of one, what a saving!

And if your budget doesn’t withstand designer prices, you can be sure that the high street will already be prepping for the tartan trend and what with the winter collections hitting stores in a few months you won’t have long to wait for you tartan fix either.