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Color & Color Analysis

What is herringbone?

Herringbone is a broken twill pattern whose diagonal lines arrange themselves into recurring V or zigzag shapes.

Glossary illustration for Herringbone

Definition

The direction of the body diagonal changes at regular intervals. This creates the characteristic structure that is reminiscent of the skeleton of a fish.

In simple words

You can find herringbone in wool fabrics, coats, blazers, trousers, shirts and accessories. Small repeats almost look like a calm texture, large versions are much more graphic. Unlike the chevron pattern, the lines often meet with a visible offset or break.

What to pay attention to

  • Check that the pattern lines up neatly at center seams and pockets.
  • Choose the sample size to suit your height and desired presence.
  • Combine fine herringbone like a structured neutral tone, not necessarily like a loud print.

Common misconceptions

Herringbone and chevron are related, but not always identical. Herringbone typically shows the broken change in body direction.

ESKYNA note

Herringbone appears constructed up close and often surprisingly calm from a distance.