How to Wear a Houndstooth Scarf

Elizabeth Jagger coordinated the cream color in her scarf with her coat.

Houndstooth is a type of pattern woven into cloth that is similar to a checked pattern. The difference is the checks are on a diagonal angle and have serrated, interlocking corners. This style of cloth originated in Scotland. Houndstooth can be found in virtually any type of garment from hats, sweaters, skirts and dresses to scarves and other accessories. When you wear a houndstooth scarf, be sure to keep the rest of your outfit muted and let the pattern be your focal point.

Instructions

1. Put together your look. Houndstooth is a versatile pattern that can be paired with virtually any solid neutral color. Try gray, black, navy and beige as the base colors for your outfit, jacket or coat. Keep your look simple and avoid other patterns. Houndstooth is eye-catching all on its own.

2. Wrap the scarf around your neck so the two ends of the scarf hang loosely down your back.

3. Cross the scarf at the back of your neck.

4. Bring the two ends (which should now be on opposite sides after you've crossed them) over the front of your shoulders so they hang down the front of your chest.

5. Adjust the loop at your neck for your personal comfort level. A loop that hangs loose away from your neck is more casual and uses the scarf for style rather than function. Pull on the ends of the scarf to tighten the loop, to provide more warmth for your neck.

References

• Resil: Textile Dictionary

Resources

• Merriam Webster: Houndstooth