The pied de poule motif is one of the most iconic patterns in the fashion world. With its unmistakable two-tone texture in the form of small broken squares, it has crossed the decades without ever losing its charm. Elegant, versatile and suitable for every season, this design represents a real evergreen of the wardrobe.
From high fashion catwalks to everyday outfits, the pied de poule fabric is suitable for multiple interpretations. But what is its origin? And how best to match it? Let’s discover together with Manifattura Foderami Cimmino the history of the pied de poule and its style secrets.
Origin and history of pied de poule
The pied de poule motif has its roots in 19th-century Scotland, where it was used to make cloaks and woolen garments for shepherds. Its spread is due to the British nobility, who appreciated its elegance and refinement.
In the 20th century, it conquered high fashion thanks to designers such as Christian Dior, who used it for his collections in the 1950s, establishing it as a synonym of class and femininity. Since then, the pattern has been taken up by numerous maison like Chanel, Gucci and Balmain, becoming a timeless symbol.
Its success has never stopped: from the style icons of the 60s like Audrey Hepburn, to contemporary influencers who reinvent it in a modern way.
Features of the motif pied de poule
But how to recognize the real pied de poule motive? It is distinguished by its two-tone geometric texture, generally in black and white, which creates an elegant and refined optical effect.
Many people confuse it with the Prince of Wales, but there are substantial differences: the first is made up of micro-jagged drawings, while the second has a more complex grid with overlapping checkered elements. Similarly, it differs from the pattern of tartan fabric, which has a colorful checkered arrangement.
It is mainly made of wool for winter clothes, but there are variations in cotton, silk and technical fabrics, perfect for all seasons. Today, thanks to textile innovations, it is possible to find this motif also in sustainable garments, produced with ecological fibers.
How to match the pied de poule
The pied de poule motif lends itself to multiple combinations of style, from casual looks to more refined outfits.
Casual clothing with pied de poule
For a fresh and dynamic day look, the design can be worn through blazers or trousers combined with basic items such as jeans and white t-shirts. The sneakers also go perfectly with this pattern, making it suitable for an urban and contemporary outfit.
Another way to wear it in everyday life is through accessories: a bag or scarf with this pattern can give a sophisticated touch even to the most simple outfits.
Elegant look with the pied de poule
When it comes to formal occasions, this fantasy becomes the protagonist. A pied de poule suit is synonymous with class, while a tailored coat gives a sophisticated allure. Even accessories, such as bags and scarves, can enrich an elegant look without being excessive.
For an important event, a pied de poule midi dress combined with black pumps is a great choice. If you want to dare, you can choose colored variants of this pattern, such as red and black or blue and white.
Errors to be avoided
Although versatile, this clothing fabric requires some precautions to avoid style drops. Avoid the total look unless it is well balanced with minimal accessories. In addition, mixing too many different patterns can be confusing: it is better to match it with neutral colors or solid colors.
Another common mistake is the use of too flashy accessories: the pattern is already a distinctive element, so it’s better to opt for discreet jewelry and shoes with an essential design.
Pied de Poule fabrics selected by Cimmino
Cimmino offers a careful selection of pied de poule fabrics, ideal for refined garments, work clothes and accessories that do not go unnoticed.
Gabardine Cuoco Sanfor
Gabardine Cuoco Sanfor is a fabric in 100% cotton with twill weave, characterized by a resistant structure and a refined texture. The yarn dye and pied de poule pattern make it particularly suitable for the production of work clothes in the restaurant, combining aesthetics and functionality.
With a height of 148 cm and a weight of 390.72 g/MTL (264 g/m 2), this fabric ensures a structured fit, ideal for garments intended for intensive use. The OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certification also ensures that the material meets high safety and quality standards, making it suitable even for prolonged contact with the skin. Thanks to its natural composition, it offers comfort and breathability, ensuring practicality and durability.
Tessuto Elastico Oliver
Tessuto Elastico Oliver is a timeless material that combines refinement and practicality. Proposed in elegant tones of black and white, it is distinguished by its geometric and checkered patterns, able to alternate with a balance of simplicity and sophistication.
Its composition of 79% polyester, 19% viscose and 2% elastane guarantees a comfortable fit and a slight elasticity, making it ideal for the manufacture of formal and timeless garments. With a height of 145 cm and a weight of 320.45 g/MTL (221 g/m 2), it is perfect for making jackets, shirts and accessories that require a fabric that looks neat and durable. Thanks to its versatility, it adapts naturally to any sartorial creation, always maintaining a touch of distinctive elegance.
The pied de poule in fashion collections
The pied de poule is a classic that continues to inspire designers. Recently, we saw it on the catwalks of Balmain, who proposed maxi versions of this pattern, and of Dior, which reinterpreted the motif in a modern way with dresses and accessories with an innovative cut.
Also streetwear brands such as Off-White and Alexander McQueen have incorporated it into their collections, proving that this pattern can be declined even in more daring and contemporary looks. The latest trends see it declined in bright colors and combined with innovative fabrics, demonstrating once again its ability to reinvent itself without losing its classic essence.
Timeless, refined and incredibly versatile, the pied de poule is a true pillar of fashion. Whether it is a discreet detail or a protagonist garment, this pattern always knows how to be noticed without being excessive. If you want to experience its charm, discover our collections of fabrics online and let yourself be inspired by a motif that does not know seasons.
