What is Houndstooth?
Originally, houndstooth was a black and white, two-toned pattern with Scottish roots. Now it comes in multiple colours, in broken or uneven checks. It’s interesting to think that the name was actually inspired by the shape of dog's teeth, hence the canine sounding moniker.
The style has made comebacks through the decades. It was very big in the 60’s - think Jean Shrimpton in 1966 when posing for Vogue, absolutely iconic! From Christian Dior in 1948, to Lady Gaga in 2019 who elegantly wore the fragmented checks in pick and black.
Houndstooth is also not just limited to fashion but also appears in interior design. Shopping vintage houndstooth, whether it’s for decoration or a statement piece, is ethical and environmentally sustainable. The pattern in my eyes, is a little bit grunge - keeping you grounded in history with a modern twist when paired with sleek black basics.
Below are three reasons why you should be wearing Houndstooth in 2020;
The small scale pattern matching is definitely a look I would like to see more people wearing on the streets or waiting in line for a coffee. A light houndstooth blazer, paired with a cloche hat or purse will make you feel like a 60’s dream. Your blazer, or signature houndstooth pants or skirt will be a statement through the decades to come.
Winter is the perfect season for houndstooth, your basic winter accessories would be ideal to match with any patterned piece. The Rule of Three is an easy styling tip when working with tessellated items, especially black basics. Turtlenecks are the way to go for a mod feeling. Add another layer of the same colour; a jacket, scarf, socks, earrings or a face mask, etc. Make it a statement. You could pair with another similar patterned item, however the biggest pattern should take priority because, unfortunately, two bold patterns will compete and clash. It is also, always, a personal preference.
Traditionally houndstooth was menswear, and you can see how, over time, it grew into a trend for women. Wearing broken checks put you in a league with Jean Shrimpton or Natalie Portman, that’s a power move, and revolutionary. You will transcend era’s.
Placed over her shoulders, Natalie Portman wears an oversized houndstooth blazer. Back yourself, be fearless my friend. A timeless, chic, vintage, classic look that can also be grunge, contrast is everything with houndstooth, or you can place the broken checks upon another similar block pattern or on top of more houndstooth.
Houndstooth on houndstooth is a force of vintage fashion. Just look at these photos from ‘58, houndstooth was revolutionary for women’s clothing, a POWER move for female fashion.
Houndstooth feels versatile and modern, guaranteed to add an edge to your outfit.
The classic pattern of houndstooth today, for me, kicks ass and goes against the grain. It is out there and makes noise. Try something and make it yours. Houndstooth is a really great place to start, just think back to the origins of the name, and you will feel powerful.
Credits:
Photography: Ari KC