I’ve already been out scouring the stores, and wherever I go, I see it: the Argyle print! The die-hard classics among us will scoff and say it was never out. But for the rest of us who dip our toes in trends, it is a breath of fresh air. Of course, as your Carmel Personal Stylist, I will offer some advice on wearing Argyle and even give you options beyond the traditional sweater or vest! The photo here is a great example of wearing Argyle in a non-traditional print such as white, tan, and brown!
Photo by McFollis
Carmel Personal Stylist Guidance for Wearing Argyle
First, Argyle print comes in different sizes. I will say small, medium, and large. The size you choose is key. For example, a small, petite woman wearing a very large Argyle splashed across her chest looks like she’s overdoing it. Conversely, a taller woman wearing a tiny Argyle print looks odd as well.
In my style appointment, the second part of my color analysis, I really review scale. It’s very useful because once you know your best scale, you won’t make that mistake ever again as you purchase items for your wardrobe. Here is the example I show in the style book for all clients.

To schedule an appointment with me, email me at beth@bethdivinestyle.com.
The History of Argyle
Now on to a short history of Argyle.
Argyle is one of those classic patterns that seems to come and go in fashion, but it never really disappears. Recognized by its distinctive diamond shapes and diagonal lines, Argyle has a history that goes back centuries.
The pattern has its roots in western Scotland and is loosely connected to the tartan traditions of Clan Campbell of Argyll. Scottish Highlanders wore patterned socks, or “hose,” as early as the 17th century. Over time, these Scottish patterns evolved into the diamond design we recognize as Argyle today. (The Guardian)
Argyle became a major fashion story in the early 20th century. Scottish knitwear company Pringle of Scotland helped popularize the pattern during the 1920s. The Duke of Windsor, a fashionable royal and enthusiastic golfer, frequently wore Argyle sweaters and socks on the golf course. This helped establish Argyle as part of the classic country-club and golf look. (Teviot Knitwear)
Eventually, Argyle moved beyond golf and became a favorite in American preppy fashion. Sweaters, sweater vests, and socks brought the pattern into everyday wardrobes.
Ways to Wear Argyle
There are many ways to wear Argyle, some you may not have even considered. Some examples include the traditional sweater, vest, dress, pants, socks, and even purses and shoes! Let your imagination guide you.
I have decided this time around to sport Argyle in my purse! And not the usual print you see; it’s pink, green, and cream with a black trim. I plan on wearing it with some of my many solid dresses in teal, dusty blue, navy, and olive green to give them a little punch. It will look great with my new olive sneakers and denim as well.
Stay Tuned for More Carmel Personal Stylist Advice on Using Argyle
Tune in next week for a Carmel Personal Stylist discussion on how to actually wear the colors of Argyle and which are better for you! And I will discuss how I am wearing it this fall.