When you grow up in the Midwest among hunters and fisherman, LL Bean flannel and Sorel boots and Duluth Packs are not a fashion statement but a practicality. My father has been wearing buffalo plaid for more 50 years, well before it was cool. So it’s with a mix of nostalgia that I fell for the next generation of check, oversized and more refined and definitely more Upper West Side than woodsy when done in black and white.

It all started with this Dixon bench ($2,595), outfitted for a nursery here but sophisticated enough to turn even our beige condo into a thing of beauty. The price tag, however, was also something special.

The hunt led me to designer Caitlin Wilson, whose almost watercolor take on buffalo check has a softer quality. Less cottage. Her upholstered Dylan Settee is such a nice size for a smaller space and only $1000. In the end, though, it was too precious for the pup who I know would be snuggling (and shedding) on it.
Instead, I opted for an ottoman for our entryway, which fits perfectly under and acrylic console table. I love that pattern is the first thing people see when they walk through door. It always a bit nerve-wrecking to order furniture online?specially when its non-returnable!?but I can assure you the craftsmanship and likeness to the photos are spot on.

If you dig the retro vibe of buffalo check, how beyond is this 1960s style Kimball chair from Anthro"! I’d never get up.

If I could wallpaper, I would. This one look...