Hse of Bespoke by WH: July 2015

Assalaamualikum lovely readers.
Hope you had a fantastic Eid well spent with family and loved ones. I must extend my gratitude and felt completely blessed with having my whole family with me from the Cape. Nothing compares with being surrounded by those you love on special days like that of Eid. As I am someone that never does Eid shopping. However whilst fabric hunting for my little sister and my baby girl. I spotted Houndstooth fabric and I immediately fell in love and knew exactly what I would design and achieve with my purchase. I must say that I was quite excited to get all dressed up for the occasion.

So ladies If you’re looking for a print that’s both current and classic, houndstooth, with its contrasting tones and distinctive pattern, is the way to go. This year, it’s hot in categories across the board boldly patterned pieces made appearances at fall fashion week, in collections by the likes of Michael Kors one of my all time favourite designers, Oscar de la Renta, Tommy Hilfiger and Trina Turk. Outerwear in particular, getting bigger as oversized coats come into style, does the ‘tooth justice with a larger area to work with. Houndstooth is a great example of a pattern that looks on trend for today’s world of business chic but has also been around for years, probably many more than you would think.

Houndstooth originated in the Scottish Lowlands in the 1800s and was used mainly as outerwear for shepherds, according to The Campus Companion. The pattern was made using a simple combination of black and white thread, as well as in the other colour combinations that are popular now.

It first rose to recognition in the 1930s when, ironically considering its low-profile beginnings, upper-class Americans began wearing houndstooth as a status symbol. Christian Dior, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton soon incorporated houndstooth into their couture collections as well, according to Rue Rue La La . Since then, the trend’s enjoyed periodic revivals, like in Alexander McQueen 2009 F/W ready-to-wear collection.

But back to the present, whether you’re looking for a cozy, oversized coat or a flirty dress, pant or skirt hounds tooth is on trend now and, judging by its past, most definitely able to stand the test of time.You could go completely monochrome but as I have an absolute love for colour. I've paired mine with a bright yellow shirt and cobalt blue accessories and heels to give it that extra pop.