What Is Argyle Pattern?
22 Feb 2024
The argyle print comes from Scotland and was once used as the basis for kilts. A symbol of British style, the aged and aristocratic argyle is back on trend. Argyle pattern is considered a real classic, it is regularly shown at fashion shows, and this season it has become one of the key trends.
Rhombuses on the perimeter of vests, sweaters, and socks became popular a hundred years ago. Kings used to wear this print. Argyle pattern was a symbol of aristocracy and wealth. Now, of course, divisions in status are not appreciated by the presence of such a closet item. However, the pattern is still a sign of refined taste and elegance, now it is adored by couturiers of fashion houses.
It consists of diamond-shaped, chessboard-like blocks, usually with transverse bands of contrasting colors. Argyle are large rhombuses, which seem to be pierced by thin diagonal lines. At the beginning of the XX century. argyle print was found only on socks, but thanks to the brand Pringle of Scotland and the English monarch Edward VIII (he adored socks with this pattern), the print soon went "into the people", coloring also on underwear.
Things in plaid are one of the basics of any closet. Now argyle pattern is found on almost any clothing, starting from dresses and ending with coats. This pattern is especially good on complex textured materials like tweed and wool, easy to get along with jeans and pants. And with some skill, it can be combined with other patterns. We tell you about the history of the pattern and how to wear it correctly.
Rhombuses on the perimeter of vests, sweaters, and socks became popular a hundred years ago. Kings used to wear this print. Argyle pattern was a symbol of aristocracy and wealth. Now, of course, divisions in status are not appreciated by the presence of such a closet item. However, the pattern is still a sign of refined taste and elegance, now it is adored by couturiers of fashion houses.
It consists of diamond-shaped, chessboard-like blocks, usually with transverse bands of contrasting colors. Argyle are large rhombuses, which seem to be pierced by thin diagonal lines. At the beginning of the XX century. argyle print was found only on socks, but thanks to the brand Pringle of Scotland and the English monarch Edward VIII (he adored socks with this pattern), the print soon went "into the people", coloring also on underwear.
Things in plaid are one of the basics of any closet. Now argyle pattern is found on almost any clothing, starting from dresses and ending with coats. This pattern is especially good on complex textured materials like tweed and wool, easy to get along with jeans and pants. And with some skill, it can be combined with other patterns. We tell you about the history of the pattern and how to wear it correctly.
What Is an Argyle?
Argyle (Scottish: Argyll) is a pattern of rhombuses or, more rarely, squares staggered diagonally and forming parallel and transverse stripes of different colors. As a rule, a thin strip of a contrasting color is superimposed on top of the rhombuses. Most often argyle is used in knitted things, but not only. Usually, an argyle pattern is knitted with colored threads or woven from them, not applied to the fabric with paint. To call it a print is not quite correct. Although today argyle can also be printed on fabric or the same knitted fabric, in this case, it can be called a print. Designers like to experiment with this ornament: they use different colors and play with the size of rhombuses and their location in the pattern.
History of Argyle
Argyle is a pattern of rhombuses or squares arranged in a staggered pattern. It is also the area in Scotland where this pattern originated. The history of argyle pattern is mysterious. There are two versions of the appearance of argyle. The first says that the pattern was based on the pattern of the St. Andrew's flag, the national flag of Scotland.
According to the second version, the now widely known argyle is one of the variants of the tartan pattern. Tartans, the classic checkered Scottish patterns, historically symbolized in this country a certain area or belonging to a certain clan. Kilts, part of the national Scottish menswear, were (and are) made of just the right amount of tartan material. when the Scots tried their traditional tartan on their feet. They found that it wasn't particularly form-fitting, so they turned it 45 degrees and discovered that if you cut the fabric diagonally, it would give it a certain elasticity. So by turning the tartan on its side, you get the original diamond pattern, which today we know as argyle.
So the argyle plaid denoted a member of the Campbell clan living in the county of Argyll in the west of Scotland.
Anyway, for a long time, the argyle pattern was not used anywhere but in Scotland. Argyle was made popular by industrialist Robert Pringle. In 1815 he founded the company Pringle of Scotland, which was engaged in the production of knitted underwear, socks, and stockings. It was on long men's golf socks that the pattern first appeared. In the late 1890s, Pringle's factory began to produce clothes with this pattern. The success was promoted by the fact that pullovers and vests with Argyle patterns were liked by members of the royal family, who wore these clothes for sports and recreation.
In the early twentieth century, Argyle became a symbol of aristocracy and noble restraint. The association "Argyle = belonging to the upper class of society" became even stronger when in the middle of the last century garments with this pattern became traditional elements of clothing for students of prestigious institutions of higher education.
Later, the president of the iconic Brooks Brothers brand, John C. Wood (we've been defining American style for over two hundred years, oh yes!), returning from a golf tournament held in Scotland, brought the argyle to America. The first pairs of brightly colored socks went on sale at Brooks Brothers in 1952, immediately becoming a bestseller and an object of lust for stylish New Yorkers.
Socks, golf socks, sweaters, pullovers, vests, and other items with the argyle pattern gradually became popular worldwide and over time transitioned into the realm of classics, becoming synonymous with refined taste and classic British style. This did not prevent and does not prevent renowned designers from reinterpreting the pattern in their way, using both unusual and classic color combinations.
Over time, the argyle pattern took to the streets and became part of street style, a special kind of street fashion, a symbol of the urban underground. Karl Lagerfeld in 2013 even created an entire collection entirely dedicated to Argyle. Nineties rock star Kurt Cobain is known to have worn argyle in his last official photo shoot with the band Nirvana. So the argyle has an eccentric history, from Hollywood to soccer grounds. Traditional and updated argyle motifs are still at the height of fashion today.
According to the second version, the now widely known argyle is one of the variants of the tartan pattern. Tartans, the classic checkered Scottish patterns, historically symbolized in this country a certain area or belonging to a certain clan. Kilts, part of the national Scottish menswear, were (and are) made of just the right amount of tartan material. when the Scots tried their traditional tartan on their feet. They found that it wasn't particularly form-fitting, so they turned it 45 degrees and discovered that if you cut the fabric diagonally, it would give it a certain elasticity. So by turning the tartan on its side, you get the original diamond pattern, which today we know as argyle.
So the argyle plaid denoted a member of the Campbell clan living in the county of Argyll in the west of Scotland.
Anyway, for a long time, the argyle pattern was not used anywhere but in Scotland. Argyle was made popular by industrialist Robert Pringle. In 1815 he founded the company Pringle of Scotland, which was engaged in the production of knitted underwear, socks, and stockings. It was on long men's golf socks that the pattern first appeared. In the late 1890s, Pringle's factory began to produce clothes with this pattern. The success was promoted by the fact that pullovers and vests with Argyle patterns were liked by members of the royal family, who wore these clothes for sports and recreation.
In the early twentieth century, Argyle became a symbol of aristocracy and noble restraint. The association "Argyle = belonging to the upper class of society" became even stronger when in the middle of the last century garments with this pattern became traditional elements of clothing for students of prestigious institutions of higher education.
Later, the president of the iconic Brooks Brothers brand, John C. Wood (we've been defining American style for over two hundred years, oh yes!), returning from a golf tournament held in Scotland, brought the argyle to America. The first pairs of brightly colored socks went on sale at Brooks Brothers in 1952, immediately becoming a bestseller and an object of lust for stylish New Yorkers.
Socks, golf socks, sweaters, pullovers, vests, and other items with the argyle pattern gradually became popular worldwide and over time transitioned into the realm of classics, becoming synonymous with refined taste and classic British style. This did not prevent and does not prevent renowned designers from reinterpreting the pattern in their way, using both unusual and classic color combinations.
Over time, the argyle pattern took to the streets and became part of street style, a special kind of street fashion, a symbol of the urban underground. Karl Lagerfeld in 2013 even created an entire collection entirely dedicated to Argyle. Nineties rock star Kurt Cobain is known to have worn argyle in his last official photo shoot with the band Nirvana. So the argyle has an eccentric history, from Hollywood to soccer grounds. Traditional and updated argyle motifs are still at the height of fashion today.
How to Wear Argyle?
Designers do not get tired of constantly playing with various geometric prints and patterns. Houndstooth, plaid, polka dots, and argyle have been relevant for several years. And in each new season, they appear before us as novelties, fresh and fashionable. The plaid never ceases to be fashionable. And the argyle pattern is not an exception. This pattern is called royal or aristocratic, and not without reason. It looks very interesting. Argyle cage is considered a retro pattern, but designers improve it and offer to combine it with a variety of clothes.
Current fashion trends dictate the use of argyle patterns in different color combinations and size variations. Some designers prefer to use traditional colors such as navy blue, dark green, and burgundy to maintain the classic look of the pattern. Others, however, offer bold and bright color combinations to give Argyle rhombuses a modern and trendy look.
Styling Tips
- For a classic and elegant look, choose clothing with a diamond pattern in traditional colors.
- If you want to add brightness and originality, choose clothes with Argyle rhombuses in unusual color combinations.
- Combine the diamond-shaped pattern with other graphic elements to create a unique and stylish look.
Argyle pattern will suit those who love classics and sophistication, but at the same time want to stand out. Large and small rhombics decorate business images, romantic dresses, and everyday outfits. Tall girls can wear clothes with rhombic of any size, and short fashionistas better choose the Argyle print of medium size.
Current fashion trends dictate the use of argyle patterns in different color combinations and size variations. Some designers prefer to use traditional colors such as navy blue, dark green, and burgundy to maintain the classic look of the pattern. Others, however, offer bold and bright color combinations to give Argyle rhombuses a modern and trendy look.
Styling Tips
- For a classic and elegant look, choose clothing with a diamond pattern in traditional colors.
- If you want to add brightness and originality, choose clothes with Argyle rhombuses in unusual color combinations.
- Combine the diamond-shaped pattern with other graphic elements to create a unique and stylish look.
Argyle pattern will suit those who love classics and sophistication, but at the same time want to stand out. Large and small rhombics decorate business images, romantic dresses, and everyday outfits. Tall girls can wear clothes with rhombic of any size, and short fashionistas better choose the Argyle print of medium size.
Sweaters, jackets and vests
Argyle is a variety of multicolored rhombuses stitched down the center. Most often it can be seen on sweaters or vests. But it is the V-neck sweaters that became the most popular. They are fashionable even now, although they look a little vintage. True, now designers offer slightly different colors and original styles of sweaters.
Dresses
Initially, the classic diamond-shaped cage was never used on dresses. But today this Scottish diamond-shaped argyle pattern is found on such clothes more and more often. Fashionable have become models in a casual style, on them rhombuses can have different shades and sizes. Popular are becoming knitted models, made of chiffon or angora. But the most popular is considered a dress made of leather rhombuses.
Suits
Such a universal pattern looks interesting on suits in casual style. Rhombuses can be varied, thanks to which you will feel great. The print is perfect for creating an office style.
Skirts
Often argyle patterns can be seen on skirts, which makes them bright and unique. Such a cell complements a variety of models. Combine skirts with a bright or monochrome top.
Fashion accessories and more
Argyle pattern is also used to create a variety of accessories, as well as additional elements of clothing. So, it is appropriate for handbags, purses, and pendants. The print can be seen on hats or berets. It is also applied to socks or tights. Amazingly beautiful are also fashionable shoes, especially if they are combined with the top in the same style.
In modern models, this dimond shaped pattern is performed not only on knitted and knitted products, designers are experimenting with materials, making elements of clothing with argyle pattern, for example, from leather, and laying out the pattern with sequins. Among the modern techniques of superimposing and combining prints in one pattern.
Argyle is a variety of multicolored rhombuses stitched down the center. Most often it can be seen on sweaters or vests. But it is the V-neck sweaters that became the most popular. They are fashionable even now, although they look a little vintage. True, now designers offer slightly different colors and original styles of sweaters.
Dresses
Initially, the classic diamond-shaped cage was never used on dresses. But today this Scottish diamond-shaped argyle pattern is found on such clothes more and more often. Fashionable have become models in a casual style, on them rhombuses can have different shades and sizes. Popular are becoming knitted models, made of chiffon or angora. But the most popular is considered a dress made of leather rhombuses.
Suits
Such a universal pattern looks interesting on suits in casual style. Rhombuses can be varied, thanks to which you will feel great. The print is perfect for creating an office style.
Skirts
Often argyle patterns can be seen on skirts, which makes them bright and unique. Such a cell complements a variety of models. Combine skirts with a bright or monochrome top.
Fashion accessories and more
Argyle pattern is also used to create a variety of accessories, as well as additional elements of clothing. So, it is appropriate for handbags, purses, and pendants. The print can be seen on hats or berets. It is also applied to socks or tights. Amazingly beautiful are also fashionable shoes, especially if they are combined with the top in the same style.
In modern models, this dimond shaped pattern is performed not only on knitted and knitted products, designers are experimenting with materials, making elements of clothing with argyle pattern, for example, from leather, and laying out the pattern with sequins. Among the modern techniques of superimposing and combining prints in one pattern.
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