The houndstooth print is one of the most iconic patterns in fashion. How to wear it to be trendy for sure? Here is everything you need to know about this timeless fabric.
We have always had houndstooth patterned clothes in our closet. You know that very graphic print made from black and white geometric shapes? Just like the striped sweater, the jacquard, the checks, the gingham or the tartan, the houndstooth fabric, “houndstooth” in English, crosses the ages. Timeless, it is one of the most iconic prints in the fashion world. It also allows you to add a touch of both classic and glamorous to a look.
What is the houndstooth pattern?
Appeared in the 1880s, the houndstooth pattern is a print that brings together black and white checks and offers a rendering that is both graphic and chic. Designed at the time from 4 black and white wool yarns, it is generally found on various materials such as tweed, cashmere, silk or even on synthetic fibers, such as viscose or elastane. . It is available today in many colors.
Originally, this motif was worn by Scottish Shepherds. Then in the 1930s, the Prince of Wales, Edward VIII, brought the houndstooth print back into fashion. Passionate about fashion, he wore this pattern on his pants or suits. A sartorial choice that will very quickly become a trend.
In the 1938s, the houndstooth pattern became the iconic print of the haute couture label Dior. We see it everywhere: on dresses, suits, skirts and even on the House’s perfume packaging. During a collection, the famous couturier Roger vivier, at the head of the Dior house in 1959, created its iconic houndstooth pumps.
Great couturiers like Balenciaga or Coco Chanel are inspired by and are fascinated by this print. Icons like Audrey hepburn adopt this black and white pattern.
The cult print was then discreet for several years. In 2000, he was brought up to date by English fashion in a more rock spirit. Designers like Victoria Beckham, Vivienne Westwood and Stella McCartney revisit it and put it in the spotlight during their parades.
What is the difference between houndstooth and houndstooth?
Although these two prints look very similar, they stand out with one very specific detail. While the houndstooth pattern is smaller with a more spaced weave, the houndstooth print is coarser and denser. The rendering is therefore different.
The houndstooth print: trend for fall / winter 2021
Today, no one shuns this print, it has become THE indispensable motif to have in your closet when you are a seasoned fashionistas.
He made a real hit at autumn / winter 2020-2021. We saw it everywhere, as well on coats, sweaters as on pants or scarves, bags and shoes.
Rest assured, the print will come back in force forfall / winter 2021-2022. However, it will be revisited. The cult motif will be transformed this year since it will be XXL and will mainly represent black and white diamonds.
During the fashion week shows, we could discover this variation on sumptuous dresses signed Christian Dior, at Valentino on an oversized coat or at Vivienne Westwood in ultra colorful version.
How to wear the houndstooth pattern?
If you don’t know yet how to wear the houndstooth print, here are a few tips.
This pattern is mainly worn on coats with an oversized cut or on blazers. It can also bring a sophisticated touch to a look over pants, paired with an XXL white shirt and a pair of white sneakers.
The houndstooth print is now available in many colors. We can imagine it perfectly on a colorful skirt, a dress or on a tote bag. Because yes, it also lands on accessories. You can also go for a woolen overshirt with a houndstooth pattern to give a rock touch to your outfit.
We let you discover in pictures our most beautiful inspirations:
The houndstooth pattern is part of the decoration
Beyond clothing, this print also knew stand out in the world of decoration. It is found more and more on the fabrics of cushions, sofas, or even on a plaid. He dresses armchairs and even invites himself on dishes.
We also discover this pattern on illustrations, graphics, drawings or clipart. Clearly, the houndstooth print is on the rise and is not about to go out of fashion. To try it is to adopt it !
Ava Skoupsky
Journalist passionate about the lifestyle universe, Ava deciphers all the trends. She is keen to tackle all the subjects that mark our daily lives. Fan of travel, she works as a freelance …