pieddepoule

Pied-de-poule, commonly written pieddepoule, is the textile pattern known in English as houndstooth. It consists of a repeated two-tone broken check forming abstract four-pointed shapes reminiscent of a dog’s tooth. The pattern is typically woven in wool or wool blends and is most often rendered in black and white, though other color pairs are common.

Origin and name: The pattern originates from woven fabrics in the Scottish Lowlands in the 19th century as a variation of twill. The French term pied-de-poule translates roughly to “hen’s foot” and is used in fashion contexts to describe the same motif; the English name houndstooth refers to the jagged outline of the shapes.

Design and variations: Classic pied-de-poule features tightly interlocking four-point motifs that create a crisp, graphic effect. Variations include micro-houndstooth (smaller motifs) and large or macro houndstooth (larger motifs) for bolder visuals. Color combinations extend beyond black and white to camel, navy, red, and other paired tones.

Uses and reception: The pattern is a staple in outerwear, suiting, skirts, and accessories, valued for its timeless, versatile look. It has appeared across haute couture and ready-to-wear, often associated with a sophisticated or formal aesthetic. Fashion houses have employed it to evoke a classic, architectural feel, and it remains widely used in contemporary textile design.

Care and durability: Pied-de-poule fabrics are typically wool or wool blends and are usually treated with standard wool-care methods, including dry cleaning or gentle washing as advised by manufacturers. The pattern’s high-contrast geometry makes wear more noticeable, influencing fabric choice and maintenance.