Check blouses

General information about check blouses

A check blouse is made from a patterned fabric which has some variation of the traditional check pattern of contrasting coloured squares. There are many different types of check available and most are commonly created using two different colours although some variants may contain three or four different colours. An online shop will usually stock check blouses with both long or short sleeves and choices made in a wide choice of fabrics.

Check blouses are a suitable fashion choice for a variety of occasions and can be used to create a selection of striking looks. A crisp cotton check blouse with a gingham check pattern will look amazing when worn with a smart pair of jeans while a silky checked blouse with a pastel mini check would create a stylish evening look when teamed with a pair of tailored black trousers. Check blouses are also ideal for smarter daytime occasions including work. Houndstooth is a check pattern that is often associated with suits, however a smart blouse in a houndstooth check would look incredible when worn with a smart black suit.

Properties of check blouses

It is possible to buy blouses in a varied selection of different checks. Gingham is probably the best known check and a gingham check blouse will have the traditional squared pattern. Other common checks include a madras check which can provide an attractive casual look or a tartan plaid which can often be found in a wide choice of colours and sizes. Online shops may also stock check blouses in houndstooth or a shepherd's check and these are particularly good choices for creating a more formal look. Both checks normally come in shades of black or blue and look particularly effective when worn with a suit or tailored trousers of a similar colour. Other possible choices include the windowpane check which is a much larger pattern and which provides a softer look, the graph check which has a resemblance to the pattern on graph paper and the tattersall check which can be an attractive choice as it is created using two deeply contrasting colours.

As well as different types of checks, it is also possible to buy check blouses in a vast selection of styles and colours. Long and short sleeved versions are commonly available and it is also possible to find styles which have either rounded or pointed collars. Check blouses which have been designed for evening wear may have no collar at all. It is also possible to buy check blouses in different lengths with longer versions that are designed to be worn tucked into trousers or a skirt; or short versions where the bottom of the check blouse sits on the waistline of the wearer. Although many traditional check blouses may come in black and white or shades of blue and white, it is also possible to find a softer choice of colours. Check blouses in pastel shades are a fantastic softer choice for the summer while a madras check in pinks, yellow and purple would help to create a bright and attractive outfit.

Caring for check blouses

Many check blouses are made from natural fabrics such as cotton and will be able to be safely machine washed. To maintain the crispness of the fabric, it is often preferable to steam iron the blouse. Evening blouses which are made from silk or chiffon may require specialist cleaning and their care instructions should be checked carefully. Hanging a check blouse in a wardrobe is preferable to folding it as this will prevent creases forming and will help maintain the quality of the garment so that it continues to look as good as new.