A modern take on tweed: 4 styles under $40

I don’t know exactly when it happened, but I’ve got a serious love affair with tweed. I reach for it again and again; there’s this invisible magnetism pulling me to the rack. Perhaps it’s the fabric’s provenance (think 18th century Scotland)? Or maybe it’s its understated sophistication, popularized by Coco Chanel? Either way, tweed has my number—and this season, it’s calling with the right price point! Brands are giving the statement fabric an update with new shapes and styles. So, here’s a modern take on tweed. Four pieces you can snag for less the $40!

But first, a few fun facts about tweed… and one you might not want to hear.

• Praised by the high fashion set, tweed actually originated as a “working man’s” cloth. Scottish weavers set out to create a rugged fabric that could stand up to the harsh Scottish climate. As a result, tweed is dense and moisture resistant.
• The name “tweed” was initially a mistake. A London merchant misread the handwriting of “tweel” (the Scottish version of “twill”) confusing it with “tweed.”
• Coco Chanel was inspired to use the fabric after borrowing her beau’s (the Duke of Westminster) sportswear.
• She structured her tweed jacket to fit more like a cardigan and incorporated new fabrics like wool & silk into her designs.
• Until relatively recently, human urine was an essential part of the Harris tweed production process. It helped strip wool of its oiliness. (Say what?!)

A modern take on tweed

Tweed Jumper (Just $15!) | White Western Boots  (limited sizing)| White Boots (similar)

Tweed Jumper—$15

Bargain hunters rejoice! With cute little pockets, buttons on the back straps, and eye-catching rough edges, this tweed jumper hits all the right style notes. It offers a sophisticated spin on the “overalls” look, one of the big trends last year. I actually can’t decide which side of the dress I like best. It’s equally darling if you wear the buttons toward the front, such a modern tweed look.

I pair this with a turtleneck, tights and western-inspired boots for casual outings. It’s a comfy, loose and relaxed look. For work, I dress it up by layering a classic, ruffled white blouse underneath. I’m also eager to try it with color, particularly red or yellow. There are SO many ways to style this!

Fit guide: For $15, I wasn’t expecting much out of the material, but it doesn’t feel cheap at all. There were two loose threads I had to trim off the hem, but I think that’s just the nature of a rough edge hem. It fits true to the sizing guide (read the chart, don’t just order your regular size) and is the perfect length for petites. Taller ladies might find the cut too short. For reference: I’m just under 5′.

Sheath Dress

Tweed Sheath Dress w/ Fringe—$33

You know those moments when something totally exceeds your expectations? This modern take on tweed did that! I found it on SheIn, a trendy online store where quality can be hit or miss. I’ve found great pieces there, but also some duds. This sheath dress is my best find yet! The quality rivals what you would see at Macy’s, Nordstrom or Ann Taylor. It’s well-constructed, lined and has gorgeous fringe to define your waistline and flatter your figure.

I wish it was warm enough to show you how it looks without the sweater, but Midwest winters are precluding that! If you are looking for a great work dress, look no further. This one pairs beautifully with jackets, cardigans… I’ve even layered a bell sleeve turtleneck sweater underneath.

This is off topic, but you also get a glimpse of our newest home improvement project in these photos… new siding! I’ll have a full post on that soon.

Fit guide: This one fit is TTS, although some reviewers felt it was slightly tight around the chest. The fabric does not have stretch, so if you are between sizes I would recommending sizing up for comfort. The length is ideal, especially for petite ladies (hits me right above the knee).

Frayed Edge Tweed Dress | Seagull art (similar) | Dresser (similar)

Frayed Edge Tweed Dress—$18

Another great bargain pick is this Frayed Edge Tweed Dress. I typically wear this with black tights and ankle booties. However, I didn’t get an opportunity to get a photo of it styled that way. Hopefully, these re-purposed photos from our bedroom makeover will do.

The material of this dress is a nice quality, though it is unlined. It looks just like some of the expensive tweed dresses I’ve had my eye on! The tweed is a lighter weight, which allows for freedom of movement, but won’t provide the warming qualities of heavier tweeds.

Fit guide: This dress runs on the large side and has a loose, relaxed fit. I would recommend sizing down. Keep in mind it also has a shorter cut and is more of a mini dress. As a shorter gal, I love the length. However, it might be too short for taller ladies. I also took the sides in ever-so-slightly, for a more body-con fit. This is certainly not necessary, it’s just my personal preference.

Tweed Sweater, Ann Taylor ($109 now $24.88!)

Tweed sweater—$24.88

My last modern tweed pick for my bargain hunting pals is this lovely fringed sweater. Originally $109, it’s now on final sale at Ann Taylor, one of my favorite stores. If you love it too, there are some amazing sales right now! It’s tough to see in these photos, but the sweater has beautiful metallic fibers woven in to give it a festive flair. This one transitions nicely from party, to work, to casual outings.

Fit guide: It is a heavy, quality fabric, sure to keep you warm. However, it’s a little bit scratchy because of the metallic fibers. I like to wear a T-shirt underneath, so it didn’t really bother me. This sweater runs a bit large. I opted for the petite version and sized down.

Need more tweed ideas? Here are a few other pieces I have my eye on! (Told you I’m obsessed… lol!)