While smaller houndstooth patterns are popular in menswear pieces like jackets and suits, the larger, bolder versions of this pattern could be seen on the fall 2013 runway. Tommy Hilfiger, Michael Kors, and Rag & Bone all used this classic pattern in their fall collections. Prepster houndstooth and brightly colored houndstooth were popular choices but I’m a fan of the classic black and white pattern. Because like all classic patterns it is easy to pair with other pieces, and can work as either a complement or the centerpiece of an outfit.
3. Zara Houndstooth Check Dress
4. kate spade new york Park Avenue Beau Bag in Maraschino
One of the most common combinations I’ve seen in street style photos recently is houndstooth with houndstooth. It is an in your face pattern that works perfectly with the black and white trend that has also stuck around this year. How to wear it? Keep the rest of your outfit fairly neutral – black and white with maybe a bit of gray, but then bring in a bright colorful accessory. I chose a statement bag by Kate Spade in the prettiest shade of red. So bright and cheery.
1. Modcloth Charter School Cardigan in Lake Blue
2. DV by Dolce Vita ‘Fina’ Boot
3. Modcloth Fellowship Shape Bag
4. Tibi Houndstooth Cotton-blend Mini Skirt
5. Zara Short Crossover Trench Coat in Beige
6. Topshop 80 Den Opaque Tights
One designer used the pattern with cobalt instead of white and like I said, I prefer the classic black/white but loved the idea of cobalt and houndstooth so I paired the two in their own collage. Cobalt is such a bold color on its own and next to the houndstooth it really pops. This type of contrast, if you pull it off, really just makes a piece or outfit fun.
1. Zara Fine Check Knitted Sweater
2. Chinese Laundry Kristin Cavallari ‘Cadence’ Flat
3. J.Crew Super-opaque Tights in Cabernet
4. Ella Moss Tippy Houndstooth-Print Flared Stretch Jersey Skirt
I say houndstooth with batwings but that is kind of a joke since Halloween is soon, what I’m really trying to say with this collage is have fun with houndstooth. It doesn’t have to be stuffy or masculine. You can take some risks with this pattern and still be classy, and ladylike. Here we have a cute, feminine outfit with mostly solid color pieces where the muted houndstooth skirt adds some needed texture.
– Julia of Style and Cheek
