Like a lot of style classics, the modest check shirt isn’t going to set the universe alight any time soon. But in a world of frivolous floral shirts and cunning Cuban collars, the checked shirt is the pragmatic partner we all need, a steady Eddie that’ll never let you down (as long as you style them correctly).

You’re bound to have a couple in your wardrobe already and not to worry if, curiously, you don’t. Their reputation as a style staple, free from the chopping and changing of fashion seasons and trends, means there will always be options available in stores come summer or winter.

The first known variant of the check shirt came in 1850 with the two-tone buffalo check shirt from American heritage brand Woolrich. It was influenced by a tartan pattern that had belonged to the clan of famed Scottish outlaw Rob Roy McGregor after plaid patterns had been banned in British for large parts of the 17th century.

And while those Georgian rulers succumbed to their mortality, the check shirt has proved immortal, buoyed by its reputation as a fashion icon sported by every style icon from John Wayne to Travis Scott and it’s as important to grunge fashion and preppy style as it is to lumbersexual hipsters.

“The check shirt is a perennial,” says Beth Pettet, partner and head of menswear buying at John Lewis. “It’s an item that is equally at home with a casual pair of jeans or shorts as it is a smarter chino, bridging the gap of that tricky casual into smart vibe that men are increasingly having to navigate when the rules are no longer clear cut.

“In short, a bit of a safety blanket for the days when you haven’t got time to think too much about what you’re wearing but still need to look stylish for the day ahead.”

What To Look For

“Clean lines, unfussy designs and simple colours will ensure that your purchase doesn’t date,” says Pettet. “Fresh blues, indigos, and ecrus always look modern but warmer tones are great for the autumn and are increasingly relevant.”