Tattersall Check Shirts: Classic British Country Style
Few patterns are as closely associated with British country dressing as the Tattersall check. Distinctive without being overly bold, a Tattersall shirt is comfortable, practical and remarkably easy to wear. From its equestrian origins to its place in the modern country wardrobe, discover the story behind this enduring checked shirt and how to wear it today.
The History of Tattersall Checks
The Tattersall check has been part of British country style for more than 200 years. The distinctive pattern is formed from regularly spaced horizontal and vertical lines, creating a simple checked design that is instantly recognisable.
Its name can be traced back to Tattersall’s horse market, founded by Richard Tattersall in London in 1766. Checked horse blankets featuring the pattern became closely associated with the market, and over time the distinctive checks found their way into country clothing.
Practical, smart and well suited to rural life, Tattersall checks became particularly popular for men’s shirts and remain a firm favourite in the British country wardrobe today.
Joseph Turner Tattersall Shirts
At Joseph Turner, we make our Tattersall check shirts from pure brushed cotton for a soft, comfortable feel and welcome warmth on cooler days.
Traditional shirtmaking details include:
- A two piece interlined collar for a smart, structured finish
- A split back yoke for a comfortable fit across the shoulders
- Traditional gussets for added strength
- Lock stitched buttons for lasting durability
It is this combination of quality cloth, practical details and classic country styling that makes a good Tattersall shirt such a dependable wardrobe favourite.
How to Wear a Tattersall Check Shirt
One of the strengths of a Tattersall shirt is its versatility. While firmly rooted in country style, it can be worn in plenty of ways beyond a day in the Yorkshire countryside.
- With knitwear: Layer under a lambswool jumper for a classic combination that adds warmth without hiding the distinctive checked collar.
- With country trousers: Pair with chinos or corduroy trousers for an easy, well put together weekend look.
- For classic country style: Wear beneath a Nehru gilet for an extra layer of warmth while allowing the check to remain a feature of the outfit.
- For cooler days: Add a fleece jacket for a practical combination suited to walking, weekends away and days spent outdoors.
- For a smarter look: A woven silk tie works particularly well with a more understated Tattersall check, taking the shirt comfortably into smarter country occasions.
A British Country Favourite
From its equestrian beginnings to its place in the modern wardrobe, the Tattersall check has certainly stood the test of time. Comfortable, practical and unmistakably British, it is a shirt that works just as well layered for a country walk as it does dressed up for lunch or a relaxed weekend away.