Most men see patterns and run for the hills. Patterns don’t have to be scary and when used properly they will only enhance a lackluster wardrobe. Learn how to identify and wear the following patterns and you’ll be a step ahead of the pack.
Most men see patterns and run for the hills. Patterns don’t have to be scary and when used properly they will only enhance a lackluster wardrobe. Learn how to identify and wear the following patterns and you’ll be a step ahead of the pack.
A man should know what patterns to wear and how to wear them. This is a list of some common and not so common patterns to have in your wardrobe to mix it up a bit.
1. Windowpane
Looks just like it sounds. Good for business suits that transition to party wear. Wear a patterned tie that echoes the color of the check.
2. Houndstooth
No it doesn’t come from your dog’s mouth. Good for bold jackets and suits for special occasions.
3. Chalk-Stripe Flannel
Looks like your kid marked up your suit with chalk. Best for cold-weather suits worn in the boardroom.
4. Pinstripe Worsted
Familiar and common to most men. Good for business of any kind.
5. Bird’s Eye
A funny name for suits that always get noticed by pretty women. Best for cocktail parties and special events.
6. Herringbone
Trademarked by up and down chevrons. Best for cold weather casual jackets and pants.
7. Glen Plaid
Lots of squares and checks on top of each other. Think English royalty. Best for classic suits for the office. For a tie with a Glen plaid shirt, your best choice is a thick striped or dotted tie that accents the color of the larger plaid.
8. Madras
A lightweight cotton with lots of spice and color. Best for hot weather jackets and shorts.
9. Seersucker
A Southern gent go-to fabric. Loose and lightweight its best for still looking sharp in torrid heat. It’s name originates from Persian words meaning “milk and sugar.”
Is there a pattern you love not on the list? Keep the discussion going in the comments!
About Grant Harris
Grant Harris is Owner & Chief Style Consultant at Image Granted; a Washington, DC based Image Consulting Company dedicated to solving the complex image, style & fashion issues of today's professional man. He has a healthy obsession with socks. Follow him on Twitter & Facebook.
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10 People had something insightful to add, but we're missing your voice! Continue the conversation with a comment.
Alex @ Giochi Divertenti
bird’s eye is always the best.
Very stilish.
.-= Alex @ Giochi Divertenti´s last blog ..Lifeguard Larry Deluxe =-.
Aug 24th, 2010
louis
No donegal tweed? :O
Jan 4th, 2012
BenL
No Gingham?
Jan 5th, 2012
Cole Bradburn
Where’s the Gingham?
I’m glad it is winter, as I love a good herringbone topcoat.
Jan 5th, 2012
Grant
@Louis – Donegal Tweed actually isn’t a pattern, it’s a fabric named after its orgin in Donegal county Ireland. Donegal county is one of 2 well-known manufacturers of Tweed. The Isles of Harris being the other.
Donegal tweed is known for its flecks and specks of colors mostly in blues, oranges, and greens. This however, is not considered a pattern. Tweed as a fabric can be woven into patterns but in its natural state it is only a fabric.
@Benl – Gingham certainly is a well-known pattern. Unfortunately, we’re only perfect 6 days a week;) We’ll have to add it to the list. Thanks for catching it.
Jan 5th, 2012
Your awesome ideas go here: