Houndstooth, a classic monochromatic pattern of alternating light and dark bands, has been a staple in fashion for many years. Originating in the Scottish Lowlands, it was originally crafted from undyed sheep's wool and can evoke images of the UK’s rolling hills and upscale country life.
This very distinct pattern appears to be alive and well in golf fashion, with many companies showing houndstooth in 2025 collections, including some of those recently unveiled at the PGA Show in Orlando. One of the brands is Rhone, whose lineup includes a houndstooth women’s seamless quarter-zip pullover and legging in three colors – black, brown berry and navy blue.
“Houndstooth has long been a timeless and sophisticated pattern, deeply rooted in the sporting lifestyle and fashion history,” says Kelly Cooper, Rhone’s Chief Product Officer. “While Coco Chanel is often credited with making it iconic, its origins trace back to the British Isles, where it has remained a staple of classic style.
“Today, houndstooth aligns with the growing trend of understated, versatile patterns that are both refined and easy to wear. In golf, we’re also seeing a resurgence of gingham checks, plaids and menswear-inspired foulard patterns – all of which will be featured in Rhone's upcoming collections for both men and women."
Houndstooth designs can be found in several other lines as well, including Galvin Green’s “part 2” collection featuring a redefined houndstooth pattern in a lineup that includes items like the Aston Jacket and Aron Pant; INSULA Dalton Quarter-Zip with padded chest detailing for added warmth; and breathable VENTIL8 PLUS Maple Shirt with an oxford-like texture and stitched grosgrain details for a stylish finish.
From FootJoy, look for the Houndstooth Geo Lisle Men’s Polo in four color combinations and featuring ProDry Performance, which the company calls the “ultimate high-tech performance garment to wear on the course,” with UV protection, moisture wicking and easy care properties.
LOHLA Sport recently featured a navy and khaki houndstooth with on-trend zebra in Mayfair, a collection honoring the upscale Central London district, home to world-famous bespoke tailors on Savile Row and designer fashions on Bond Street. At the same time, Golftini includes a traditional black and white and hot pink and white houndstooth pattern in a classic skort, and Rhoback is turning heads with the Dogstooth Houndstooth Performance Polo in a breathable fabric with moisture wicking and four-way stretch technology in fleet navy and white.
You’ll even find some houndtooth in kids apparel, including the current St. Tropez Collection from Garb. This group, which the company says “brings a bit of whimsy to a preppy aesthetic,” includes the Bryant Polo with anenlarged houndstooth pattern and contrast piping at the collar for a “polished, yet playful look.”
And on the accessories side, look for Seamus’s Harris Tweed Dogtooth (also known as houndtooth) headcover. To emphasize the classic nature of this pattern, the company says, “Sourced exclusively by law from Scotland’s Outer Hebrides under the 1993 Harris Tweed Act of Parliament, Harris Tweed wool is sheared, dyed, spun and woven in the homes of islanders practicing the most ancient techniques. To this day, most makers continue to use Hattersley pedal looms that were first built over 100 years ago.”