Houndstooth (n.) "a large overall checked pattern with notched corners typically used in cloth for fabric or suits."
~adapted from the Oxford Dictionary.
Typically a menswear fabric, houndstooth can be used to decorate furniture as well. Like these stools recently featured in Lonny magazine.
But why stop at stools?
Houndstooth is everywhere these days. You can even find it on stylish table lamps, like these two below. Or lots of fun pet products too.
Natural Light Houndstooth Woven Abaca Table Lamp / Buddy Miniature Terrier Table Lamp
Used on sofas and chairs and curtains and rugs and throws and walls....houndstooth is a current trend for this fall.
Decorating with houndstooth....here's some ideas and suggestions for adding it to your decor.
1. Add a little color
Why not?
Nothing updates a traditional pattern more than pairing it with a bold vibrant color like pink, as in this seating arrangement featured in Apartment Therapy.
Start with accent seating and layer in the houndstooth texture, like this arm chair to create a twist on a tradition.
Crystal Keltic Oreo Houndstooth Upholstered Armchair
2. Go bold
A brilliantly patterned houndstooth rug anchors an eclectic mix of decor in this room featured in Apartment Therapy.
Using pattern and color on the floor creates a visual that is playful and fun.
Carry the theme further by echoing the pattern with textiles and furniture in the room.
3. Create a mood
Houndstooth fabrics are a great way to create a mood in a room, as in this space featured in Traditional Home.
Pair the fabric with leather and smoky gray walls to create a warm welcoming space with traditional flair.
Then add a some textured pieces, like a patterned ottoman or cashmere throw to complete the look.
Anaei Large Keltic Oreo Houndstooth Pouf Ottoman / Chocolate/Creme Houndstooth Cashmere Blend Throw Blanket
4. Start with simple
Here's how I used houndstooth in my dining room at Thistlewood Farms.
I started with a basic small-patterned houndstooth fabric and added it to the dining room chairs.
A little of the fabric paired with a floral patterned rug and neutral walls really brings the room to life.
So whether it's bold or simple or full of color or a basic neutral.....houndstooth works in any decor.
Menswear fabric.
It's not just for suits any more.
Image credits: Lonny Magazine, Apartment Therapy, Apartment Therapy, Traditional Home, Thistlewood Farms