Houndstooth one of the hottest trends for fall

Houndstooth has stood the test of time. Considered a classic, houndstooth has been a fashion trend several times in history, with peaks during the 1930s, the 1970s, and now again in the first decade of 2000.

It origins are believed to be Scottish. Houndstooth is a two-toned textile design or pattern that consists of small broken or jagged checks. The houndstooth check is formed by alternating bands of four dark bands and four light bands both lengthwise and crosswise in a woven pattern.

Generally, the two colors are light and dark, such as black and white or brown and white, but can also be woven of different colors. The design forms a four-pointed star. The size of the checks varies.

It is often used for coats, blazers and other outdoor wear. In the early 1800s it was found in scarves and hoop skirts.
But over time, it became popular for home items and accessories, such as handbags, headbands and umbrellas.

In the late 1960s, designer Geoffrey Beene mixed the classic pattern with lace in dresses. Also in the late 1960s, Chevrolet used a black and white houndstooth pattern to upholster some of its Camaro line of vehicles.

A little goes a long way. A houndstooth jacket, blouse or scarf can update last year's outfit like nothing else.