With minimalism’s slow but steady fall and consumers seeking dynamic, eye-catching designs, the herringbone pattern is enjoying a new popularity hike in interior design and fashion.
The herringbone design is most certainly not new: this pattern has come to us through centuries, adapting to different applications and always maintaining a timeless appeal, from the elegant parquet floor of 18th-century French homes to the backsplash rectangular tiles in contemporary kitchens and bathrooms, and yes, even catwalks of well-known apparel brands.
Today’s article will explore the renewed global interest of customers in the herringbone partner, from the unexpected origins of this design to the latest trends regarding this timeless motif.
Table of Contents
History, characteristics and evolution
Herringbone pattern trends
Final thoughts
History, characteristics, and evolution
In some languages, they call it the “fishbone pattern” or “chevron,” and in others, it takes the name of “French for pattern.” No matter what you call it, thanks to its iconic design featuring a zig-zag arrangement, the herringbone pattern is easily recognizable on any surface, from flooring to clothing.
This motif of rectangular shapes colliding into one another creates a dynamic and captivating visual effect that lands depth and movement to any space. The visual effect is of great impact, and depending on the colors and materials used, it can be elegant and sophisticated or modern and bold.
The origins of the herringbone pattern
Only a few know that the herringbone pattern dates all the way back to ancient Rome, where rectangular brick and mortar were used for paving roads but not for their beauty. At the time, urbanists discovered that this pattern allowed weight to be distributed evenly, ensuring greater resistance and durability.
However, the herringbone pattern found its maximum expression only many centuries later, in the residences of noble homes in France. Back then, this motif was associated with elegance and wealth and acquired an allure capable of embellishing the most refined interiors.
Over time, the herringbone pattern has also made its way into the fashion world, finding application in fabrics and clothing. In the 1920s, for example, the motif was very popular in tweeds used for men’s suits.
Back in the spotlight
In recent years, the herringbone pattern has experienced a real renaissance. Once deemed too chaotic and flashy, interior designers and stylists reinterpreted it in a modern way until it found its relevant space in homes and fashion collections.
With prints and patterns back in vogue and consumers looking for a way to express themselves through fashion and interior design, the herringbone motif has made its way not only in the world of home design but also in the clothing and accessories industry.
Herringbone pattern trends
With its ability to adapt to different times, styles, and materials, the herringbone pattern is a popular choice for retailers, store managers, and owners looking to offer unique and trendy products.
Below are some of the hottest trends for 2025 regarding the use of the herringbone pattern in finishings, home décor, and even apparel.
Herringbone floors
Herringbone floors are undoubtedly one of this pattern’s most classic and popular applications, especially with parquet or laminate.
In 2025, we see a growing popularity of modern variations that use exotic woods, matte finishes, and unusual colors such as gray or black. Certified wood is another important trend, responding to the growing demand for eco-friendly products.
Herringbone tiles can also be seen in ceramic and vinyl flooring for kitchens and bathrooms, thus allowing them to reach a wider market segment looking for more practical solutions for their homes.
Fabrics and clothing
In fashion, the herringbone pattern has been reinterpreted in wool, cotton, and even technical materials. The most iconic pieces are the herringbone tweed coats, but the same motif has also appeared on scarves, ties, and even sneakers lately.
In the home area, the herringbone pattern found its place on drapes and curtains, adding a touch of sophistication to any room. It can also be used on sofas, cushions, throwers, and bed linen, either as a subtle accent or a bold statement piece, depending on the design aesthetic you want to achieve.
Wallpaper and wall coverings
The herringbone pattern is not just a trend; it’s a visual statement. It’s now adorning walls, featured in wallpapers and wall coverings, adding a striking motif and bringing dynamism to any room and space.
Wallpaper is ideal for creating beautiful accent walls in a living room or dining room, and it can liven up. Herringbone ceramic coverings are also seeing a big comeback, offering unique design solutions for a bathroom wall or kitchen backsplashes made of ceramic tiles, subway tiles of different lengths, and even natural stone.
Furniture and accessories
However, the rectangles of the herringbone pattern are not limited to hardwood floors and wall coverings. In 2025, we will see a wide range of furniture and accessories incorporating this design.
Herringbone tables, chairs, and cabinets are in high demand, as are cushions and rugs that use patterns to add a touch of elegance and modernity to interiors. Again, the use of sustainable materials and craftsmanship is a growing trend.
Final thoughts
This article has explored the fascinating history of the herringbone pattern, its evolution through the centuries, and its return to prominence in various fields of design and fashion.
Today, herringbone is not just a classic motif but a real contemporary trend that offers endless possibilities for customization and represents a real gold mine for online stores and mortar-and-brick retailers wanting to invest in products to appeal to a clientele looking for style, quality and originality.
