Nowadays, plain fabrics dominate mostly classic and formal wear. Men are dressing more boldly, experimenting with playful colors and lively patterns—even at the risk of being a bit loud. Despite these deviations, several patterns have stood the test of time while maintaining their freshness.
Here are five of the most popular patterns for a bespoke suit. You might be surprised by the fifth!
Glen Check
Also known as the Prince of Wales check, this pattern typically features overlapping geometric shapes in red, cream, black, and gray. It’s a bold choice, perfect for casual office jackets or even better, after-work wear. Pair it with solid shirts and ties, along with chinos or jeans.
Herringbone (Os de Pește)
Known as herringbone or, more casually, the “little pine tree” pattern, this classic design is common on sport jackets or overcoats. It’s popular among American manufacturers and comes in shades of brown, green, gray, and sometimes blue. A gray herringbone jacket pairs beautifully with a crisp white cotton shirt and either a knit or striped silk tie. This versatile pattern has been embraced across continental Europe since the early 20th century.
Houndstooth (Picior de Cocoș)
Houndstooth, or “pepit,” is intricate and requires careful coordination with other colors or patterns. It comes in many shades and works well for office sport jackets. While stylish and a staple among classic patterns, it may not suit everyone’s taste.
Chalk Stripe
Vertical stripes are a symbol of capitalist power and became popular in business attire starting in the 1980s. The finer-spaced version is called pinstripe. This classic choice conveys authority, confidence, and respect. Chalk stripes are ideal for two- or three-piece suits. Films like Wall Street (1987) or The Wolf of Wall Street (2013) showcase this pattern in action—perfect for deciding if it fits your style.
Tatersall
This decorative pattern symbolizes the English countryside, with a history of over 200 years. In the U.S., brands like Ralph Lauren and Brooks Brothers often use it for button-down shirts. Tatersall is best for casual, weekend outfits and pairs well with tweed sport jackets and jeans.
Which of these patterns suits your style best?
