Every season has its prominent pattern that explodes and is seen everywhere. This Fall, that pattern is checkerboard !! This pattern was big in Spring/Summer 2021 and made its first cameo during the previous Fall/Winter 2021 season. However, this fall “Checkerboard is Back and Bigger than Ever”! What started building steam last year is now full speed ahead. This falls iteration of the look is mainly in classic, high contrasting monochrome tones of black and white, with the occasional bold color-infused for interest. This geometric check print was rocking the designer runways and you will soon find it in retail as well on everything from clothing to accessories.
Fashion has been in a vintage mood lately with decades’ past trends being reincarnated. This nostalgic print is known from the ’70s, appearing on those famous slip-on sneakers, but dates back much further than that. It is here to stay and is forecasted to be on-trend well into 2022. Influencers and Celebs like Hailey Bieber and Gigi Hadid, among others, have already embraced it with posts shared on their Instagram feeds. It’s even been a recurring featured wardrobe item on one of Netflix’s top-rated shows, The Queen’s Gambit (See our other articles on the fashion from that show).
Designers showed this checkered print as an integral part of their collections for Fall-Winter 21/22. Popular brands like Mango are also stocking pieces that are expected to be in high demand and they’re not alone. Hip, modern boutique brands like Holiday the Label, Shop Cider, Paloma Wool, Lisa says Gah and artist, Katherine Plumb have also had it on their radars coming up with their own versions of it that manipulate the iconic alternating formation in creative ways. It is also trickling down the market into fast fashion too. Look for these harlequin-inspired interpretations of design on separates, dresses, matching sets, even outerwear, and handbags.
Runway Inspiration
Christopher Kane
At Christopher Kane, the shapeshifting was made up of larger triangles yet still well within the realm of a checkerboard. We saw larger prints and some color play where a mostly neutral color palette was the focus with a splash of red that was eye-catching.
Valentino
Valentino is always the epitome of elegance going for the classic, chic styling showing it in overcoats and accessories. Their Ready-to-Wear collection was nearly all black and white letting the dramatic pattern speak for itself.
Gucci
Gucci pushed the envelope displaying the trend in several different iterations and various textures. In the hands of their expertly executed designers, the Gucci logo and branding were integrated seamlessly into their version of the trend. Their use of these patterns was donned on everything from coats, pants, and more. Gucci even teamed up to collaborate with Balenciaga as the two houses joined forces for a brilliant creative partnership.
Burberry
Burberry went for a simpler, subdued nod that unequivocally clearly set the tone that this is what to wear this season.
Similar prints have been trending in fashion recently with buffalo checks and ginghams surging and having their own moments. During the Fall and Winter seasons, we normally can’t wait to break out the plaids. Checkerboard is a modern and reimagined alternative to your usual tartans. There was never a time more appropriate than now to bust out your classic luxury Louis Vuitton Damier handbags.
If you’re wondering how to style this trend, there are several ways to wear it. Add a pop of color to make a statement. For a bold look, try mixing different prints. You can even balance it out with a solid. Combine scales for a little pattern play. Wear black knee-high boots with a dress or skirt for a retro-chic vibe. If the dizzying squares are too much for you, but you’re still obsessed with this trend, then use it as an accent with a bag or shoes in a smaller dose!! Any way you wear it, to get in on this super hot trend, just be sure to add checkerboard into your wardrobe this Fall!
Editors Picks
