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- Dictionaryhoundstooth/ˈhaʊn(d)ztuːθ/
noun
- 1. a large check pattern with notched corners suggestive of a canine tooth, typically used in cloth for jackets and suits: "a houndstooth jacket"
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Houndstooth is a pattern of alternating light and dark checks used on fabric. It is also known as hounds tooth check , hound's tooth (and similar spellings), dogstooth , dogtooth or dog's tooth .
- Watch Our Houndstooth Video Guide
- What Is The Houndstooth Pattern?
- Houndstooth, Dogstooth, Or Puppytooth; What’s The difference?
- Houndstooth Or Shepherd’s Check?
- How to Wear & Pair Houndstooth
- Houndstooth Jackets and Sport Coats
- Houndstooth Suits
- Houndstooth Dress Shirts
- Houndstooth Accessories
- Foolproof Houndstooth Tips
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Preston is on hand to guide you through the history of this unique and intriguing textile pattern, as well as provide some of his recommendations for wearing and pairing houndstooth with style.
In the most general terms, houndstooth is a type of checkedpattern. As a reminder, a check is a type of pattern that’s created from the intersection of horizontal and vertical lines on a garment which creates small squares. Sometimes, you can also see an overcheck which is basically a larger-scale pattern that’s complementing the smaller check at t...
There are many names that feel like they mean the same thing when it comes to houndstooth, but there are subtle differences to consider. Terms like dogtooth (or dogstooth) are primarily used in a British context. It’s for this reason that you’ll read of England’s super spy, James Bond, wearing a “battered dogtooth suit” in Ian Fleming’s original no...
When a houndstooth pattern is woven at particular sizes, it may take on a different name. A pattern that is 6 yarns by 6 yarns, or even larger could classify as a shepherd’s check. Of course, color plays a part in this too, as most shepherd’s check patterns come in a black or brown base with light threads as a contrast (usually plain white). Perhap...
Houndstooth is a classic pattern that is available in many different color and size combinations, as well as a multitude of different textures and weaving options. You’ll be able to get much more variety by using it in your outfits than you could with just a standard plain wool. Given its heritage, houndstooth is an ideal choice for various traditi...
Perhaps the easiest way to introduce houndstooth into your wardrobe is in an odd jacket or sports coat. As the pattern is already on the casual side, go for a single-breasted jacket featuring 2 buttons or a 3-roll-2-button stance. Great colors include brown, green, beige, or some red, or alternatively, you could also go for grayscale or even some m...
Although recent years have seen womenswear adopt the houndstooth pattern in a big way, it’s still possible to see it used in men’s suits.Of course, what this means is that the jacket, trousers, and possibly a vest all feature exactly the same houndstooth pattern because they were cut from the same cloth. If you do choose to wear a houndstooth suit,...
Most typically for dress shirts, you will see a very small houndstooth pattern, this is where the term puppytooth again comes in. Often, this pattern is just in one color and white. Now, on more informal shirts, you will sometimes see a larger-scale houndstooth check and it can also be in multiple colors. This would be for a more casual-styled shir...
Houndstooth Ties
As far as houndstooth in neckwear is concerned, houndstooth ties are a traditional and still popular option. You will see houndstooth on neckties in printed silk which is usually smoother as well as a woven bourette fabric that has a little bit more texture to it. Burgundy is a classic color for a houndstooth necktie as is navy and for that reason, many men will choose one of these two colors first. Also, if you happen to wear a lot of brown tweeds, a beige houndstooth tie could be a particul...
Houndstooth Bow Ties
Houndstooth is also a popular pattern for bow ties. This can be a particularly unique way to introduce the pattern in an outfit. We’ve found that a houndstooth bow tie can easily dress up a relaxed outfit that consists of some casual pants and knitwear, such as a sweater. Of course, houndstooth bow ties can also put a fun spin on a more formal outfit. The key to making this work is to keep the other elements of your outfit classic and simple. Don’t try to do too much at once, and the houndsto...
Houndstooth Pocket Squares
For pocket squares, the same general rules of neckwear also apply. A houndstooth pocket square in silk can add a pop of color and interest to an otherwise more muted jacket. However, if you are wearing a houndstooth jacket, go for a more simple pocket square in silk or in a slightly more textured fabric.
Pick The Right Shoes
Brown is undeniably the most versatile color for outfits consisting of a combination of sport coat and odd trousers. Oxfords, derbies, and loafers are all acceptable in various shades of brown for these kinds of outfits. For a slightly more modern shoe style, monk strapsor suede shoes still usually in varying shades of brown can also look particularly smart. Conversely, black shoes are much riskier to wear with these kinds of outfits. You can still get away with a more informal type of black...
Add a Boutonniere
We are big fans of boutonnieres here at the Gentleman’s Gazette because they add that special touch of sprezzaturain a way that you don’t see many men doing these days. Generally, when wearing a boutonniere with a houndstooth jacket, you should go for something smaller and more subdued because you don’t want a large flower clashing with the already bold nature of the houndstooth pattern.
Don’t Add Too Much Houndstooth
Now, if you are wearing a houndstooth jacket, it is probably best not to also be wearing a houndstooth tie. If that is the case, you could wear a Prince of Wales pattern tiein a somewhat large pattern in a color such as gray or navy. Also, you could be wearing a tie with a Macclesfield neats pattern or a similar sort of micropattern. Of course, going with a solid-colored necktie here, perhaps a knit tiethat provides just a little bit of texture is always a safe and distinguished choice.
Learn about the origins, variations, and styles of houndstooth, a classic checked pattern that resembles a dog's back teeth. Find out how to pair houndstooth with other patterns and colors for a timeless and elegant look.
Apr 11, 2024 · Learn how the houndstooth pattern, a timeless emblem of style, evolved from its pastoral origins in the Scottish Lowlands to its esteemed status in high fashion and beyond. Discover its ancient origins, symbolic significance, and modern reinventions across various domains of design.
Jan 16, 2023 · Learn about the origins, variations and evolution of houndstooth, a classic two-toned textile pattern that dates back to ancient Scotland. Discover how to wear houndstooth in different outfits and occasions with The Stiff Collar's range of houndstooth shirts.
Oct 3, 2023 · Houndstooth fabric is a true classic, originating in Scotland during the 19th century. Its timeless appeal lies in its distinctive interlocking geometric pattern, often found in a black and white two-tone combination, resembling a tessellated checkerboard.
Nov 12, 2015 · A history of the houndstooth fabric and pattern. Includes houndstooth blazer, scarf, overcoat, and houndstooth styling outfit ideas for fall.
Feb 24, 2020 · A houndstooth refers to a design created in a woven cloth through a color and weave effect. Traditionally, the warp layout is designed with alternating bands of four dark threads followed by four white threads.
