Can You Identify All of These Patterns?

Estimated Completion Time
3 min
Can You Identify All of These Patterns?
Image: Pixabay by TheDigitalArtist

About This Quiz

Can you tell a houndstooth pattern from herringbone or harlequin? Know how to identify classic prints like ditsy, Liberty or chevron? If we show you an example of Madras or ikat, could you tell them apart? Take our quiz to see how many of these popular patterns you can name!

The patterns used to create modern clothing take their roots from a huge variety of sources. Some are rooted in the traditional garb of the Scottish Highlands, inspired by family crests and royal traditions. Others date back to the swinging '60s or the roaring '20s. Some patterns borrow from traditional cultures from the Far East or Europe, conveying nostalgic scenes of fishermen or cottage life. Still others are borrowed from nature and include images of birds, flowers and other pictures of Earth's bounties. 

Perhaps the most interesting patterns you see, however, are those with no obvious origins. They are the geometric, trellis, lattice and other repeating patterns that are most accurately sourced to science - to similar patterns found in math or in the structure of a natural crystal.

Consider yourself an expert in the most common patterns? Prop up your paisley pillows! Prove your pattern IQ with this quiz!

scallop
Pixabay by Dazzleology
Do you know the name of this nature-inspired pattern?
Ogee
Ditsy
Windowpane
Scallop
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Scallop or scale patterns take their inspiration from the overlapping scales of a fish or reptile. This design is often found in art deco decor, but can fit right into both modern and traditional styles.

basketweave
Pixabay by Unijewels
Do you know the name of this pattern, which is seen on everything from pants to upholstery?
Fleur-de-lis
Liberty
Basketweave
Hairline stripe
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Basketweave features a crisscross pattern like a tightly-woven fabric, or like straw formed into a useful basket. It can be printed or woven strand by strand, and it is commonly used in contemporary decor.

tartan
Pixabay by Kaz
What is the name of this pattern, which is derived from traditional Scottish garb?
Houndstooth
Tartan
Basketweave
Ogee
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Tartan has a rich history, closely interwoven with the culture and legacy of Scotland itself. It consists of criss-crossed stripes of different colors and widths used to create a pleasing finish. While often seen in red and green, Tartan actually comes in many colors.

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brocade
Pixabay by Jwskks5786
Can you name this pattern, which is often used on drapery and furniture upholstery?
Trellis
Argyle
Tartan
Brocade
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Brocade patterns can appear as though they are embroidered but are actually woven like traditional fabrics. This classic pattern is often used on silk or satin to finish furniture or curtains.

herringbone
Pixabay by RamsayMedia
What is the name of this pattern, which resembles the skeleton of a fish?
Quatrefoil
Gingham
Herringbone
Flame stitch
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

With a structure like the bones of a fish, herringbone consists of zigzag stripes. It's similar to chevron, but is broken along each column rather than continuous. This pattern is popular on tweed and twill fabrics.

harlequin
Pixabay by Geralt
Can you name this whimsical pattern?
Scale
Ditsy
Quatrefoil
Harlequin
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Harlequin is similar to a checked design, butwith diamonds rather than squares. It's often presented in black and white, but it can also be found in various colors. This pattern works well on glam pieces or in eclectic home decor.

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argyle
Pixabay by Kaz
What is this preppy pattern called?
Southwestern
Argyle
Houndstooth
Greek key
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The ultimate preppy pattern, argyle consists of alternating colors of diamonds, some solid and some simple outlines. This pattern, popular on socks, originated in Scotland.

flame stitch
Wiki Commons by Rijksmuseum
Can you name this groovy vintage pattern?
Flame stitch
Damask
Microcheck
Liberty
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Flame stitch consists of closely spaced, jagged lines. Similar to chevron, the lines tend to be thin and the pattern is often rich in colors. This pattern has a decidedly '70s retro vibe.

damask
Pixabay by Georgex25
What is this highly formal pattern called?
Trellis
Damask
Glen plaid
Candy stripe
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Named for the city of Damascus along the ancient Silk Road, Damask is a reversible pattern commonly used on silk or wool. It has a raised detail or design of flowers or similar features, and it is considered quite traditional as far as patterns go.

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gingham
Pixabay by Cateyz
Can you ID this down-home pattern?
Quatrefoil
Ditsy
Gingham
Houndstooth
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Gingham patterns are made from overlapping lines of various colors. The most common gingham look is red and white, though blue and white and other shades are also an option.

lattice
Pixabay by DavidZydd
What is this pattern, which resembles many common fence designs?
Lattice
Houndstooth
Liberty
Scale
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The lattice pattern resembles fences found in many homes and gardens. It may feature shapes like diamonds, circles or squares, but any pattern made from lines forming repeating shapes generally falls within this category.

half drop
Wiki Commons by Elinor Merrell
Can you name this simple repeating pattern?
Greek key
Half drop
Toile
Quatrefoil
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

A half drop pattern can vary wildly from piece to piece. Any design in which a repeating pattern drops down by an increment from column to column falls within this category.

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ikat
Wiki Commons
Do you know the name of this boho fashion pattern?
Argyle
Hairline stripe
Imperial trellis
Ikat
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Ikat is a style of fabric prep that results in a very distinctive pattern. By tie-dying fibers before they are woven, clothing manufacturers create bohemian-style fabrics with a blurred, imperfect finish.

chinoiserie
Wiki Commons by THOR
Do you know the name of this pattern, which draws its inspiration from the Far East?
Houndstooth
Ditsy
Chinoiserie
Toile
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Chinoiserie is based on Western interpretations of traditional Chinese and Asian designs. It often includes natural scenes like flowers and birds, as well as scenes from everyday life.

houndstooth
Pixabay by Aquamarine_song
What is this classic jagged check pattern called?
Jacobean
Houndstooth
Tatersall
Paisley
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Houndstooth, also known as dogstooth, consists of jagged or broken checks, sometimes referred to as four-pointed stars. Derived from traditional Scottish designs, this pattern lends an elegant and luxurious air to fabric or clothing.

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toile
Pixabay by Prawny
What is the name of this pattern, which dates back to 18th century France?
Toile
Liberty
Windowpane
Shepherd's check
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Toile is a pattern inspired by designs from 18th-century France. It often utilizes a white background and includes scenes of pastoral life, animals or flowers.

ditzy
Pixabay by Kaz
Do you know the name of this fun floral fabric pattern?
Basketweave
Harlequin
Liberty
Ditsy
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Ditsy is a simple and whimsical pattern known for incorporating small, all-over designs. It is cheerful and colorful and often includes flowers or simple shapes.

chevron
Pixabay by DavidZydd
Can you name this pattern, which is inspired by certain styles of military insignia?
Argyle
Flame stitch
Chevron
Scallop
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Chevron consists of repeating patterns of v-shaped rows in alternating colors. This military-inspired design is often used by fashion house MIssoni.

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southwestern
Pixabay by Isoblyf
Can you identify this landscape-inspired pattern?
Fleur-de-lis
Southwestern
Houndstooth
Hairline stripe
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The southwestern pattern encompasses a broad array of designs, all inspired by the natural landscape in the Southwestern U.S. It includes shades of turquoise, orange, red and brown and may reflect traditional Native American designs.

greek key
Pixabay by OpenClipart-Vectors
What is the name of this classical pattern?
Greek key
Jacobean
Chevron
Quatrefoil
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Greek key, also known as fret pattern, features interlocking geometric lines arranged at right angles. It is inspired by the architectural designs of ancient Greece.

ogee
Pixabay by Viscious-Speed
Can you name this style, which draws inspiration from Middle Eastern architecture?
Half drop
Chinoiserie
Ogee
Liberty
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Ogee patterns feature repeating rows of onion-shaped designs, which may resemble a diamond that is rounded on two sides rather than pointed. This pattern takes its inspiration from the architecture of Islam and the Middle East.

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madras
Pixabay by Pugmom40
Can you name this pattern that originated in India?
Argyle
Madras
Harlequin
Damask
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Madras is a checkered or plaid style that originated in India. It consists of cotton fabric that bleeds and fades as it's washed over time, so what starts as bright colorful strips fades to a cool, relaxing softness.

candy stripe
Pixabay by Mizbitz
Can you name this pattern that is often associated with hospital helpers?
Basketweave
Tartan
Candy stripe
Herringbone
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Early 20th-century hospital volunteers were nicknamed candy stripers after the red-and-white-striped outfits they wore. Inspired by the classic red-and-white-striped candy, this pattern features lines placed fairly far apart and typically features thin red stripes on white fabric.

paisley
Pixabay by Hans
What swinging '60s style is actually named for a city in Scotland?
Houndstooth
Paisley
Ogee
Quatrefoil
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The tradition of paisley print, with its swirling teardrop shapes, originated in India or Persia. Associated with psychedelic culture, it shares its name with the city of Paisley, Scotland.

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tatersall
Pixabay by Rawpixel
Can you name this traditional checked pattern, which is known for its small squares?
Ditsy
Flame stitch
Tatersall
Brocade
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Tatersall pattern consists of small checks formed from regularly spaced, evenly colored stripes. The squares are smaller than windowpane check, and colors can vary throughout the rainbow.

trellis
Pixabay by DavidZydd
Do you know the name of this pattern made from interlocking lines?
Harlequin
Gingham
Damask
Trellis
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Trellis patterns are similar to lattice designs. They consist of interlocking lines forming shapes like squares, diamonds or other geometric designs. Most utilize two contrasting colors to emphasize the clean lines of the pattern.

glen plaid
Pixabay by Kaz
Can you name this pattern that was made famous by a former British royal?
Herringbone
Chevron
Houndstooth
Glen Plaid
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Edward VIII wore plenty of glen plaid during his reign as Prince of Wales - so much so that the pattern is often referred to as Prince of Wales check. It consists of checks woven in a twill pattern, with squares broken by alternating patterns of weave.

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fleur de lis
Pixabay by PublicDomainPictures
Can you name this pattern that is associated with French nobility?
Fleur-de-lis
Liberty
Southwestern
Toile
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Fleur-de-lis patterns feature a lily flower with three petals. Dating back to the Middle Ages, this pattern is associated with the monarchy and nobility of France.

imperial trellis
Youtube by beCreativevo
What is the name of this popular pattern used on many wall coverings?
Ikat
Imperial trellis
Lattice
Quatrefoil
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Imperial trellis patterns take traditional lattice or trellis designs to a more refined level. They consist of bold interlocking lines forming a wide variety of geometric shapes and designs.

hairline stripe
Pixabay by Rosebfischer
What is the name of this pattern that is often used to make dress shirts?
Hairline stripe
Toile
Chevron
Ditsy
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Hairline stripe is one of the finest striped patterns used in modern fashion. The stripes are finer than pinstripes, typically about the width of a human hair.

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graph check
Pixabay by Chayka1270
Mathematicians might appreciate this pattern, which mimics paper used in the classroom. What is it called?
Tartan
Tatersall
Liberty
Graph check
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Graph check is a relatively small pattern of squares. Larger than the tiny checks used in windowpane pattern, it looks very similar to graph paper used in the math world.

pin stripe
Pixabay by PatternPictures
What is this popular pattern, found on many men's suits?
Ogee
Houndstooth
Pinstripe
Liberty
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Pinstripes are one of the most common patterns used to make formal clothing, like suits. The stripes may be broken or continuous, and they tend to be slightly wider than those used in hairline patterns.

vermicular
Pixabay by DavidZydd
Which pattern takes its name from a Latin term for "worm"?
Ogee
Vermicular
Candy stripe
Quatrefoil
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

The vermicular pattern, with its swirls of twisty lines, is named for the Latin word for worm. Also known as scribble pattern, it features lines that may be dotted or solid.

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geometric
Pixabay by Immaster
Can you name this pattern that fits in well in mid-century modern decor?
Geometric
Ogee
Pinstripe
Toile
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Geometric prints feature bold shapes like circles, triangles and squares. Fabric printed with this design is characteristic of contemporary mid-century modern decor.

jacobean
Pixabay by 1200219
What pattern is named for King James I of England?
Ikat
Jacobean
Lattice
Liberty
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

During the reign of King James I in the 17th century, fabrics printed with branches, vines and flowers were all the rage. Today, this pattern is known as Jacobean, and it may also include birds and animals.

shepherds check
Pixabay by Geralt
What is the name of this gingham-like pattern?
Houndstooth
Ditsy
Shepherd's check
Liberty
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Named for designs worn by shepherds in the Scottish Highlands, shepherd's check consists of small, even squares. The style is similar to gingham, but has a characteristic visible weave.

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quatrefoil
Pixabay by Kaz
The name of which pattern comes from the French for "four petals"?
Chevron
Quatrefoil
Ogee
Gingham
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Quatrefoil is a repeating pattern of four-petaled flowers. A similar design, trefoil, consists of flowers with three petals each.

floral
Pixabay by Kaz
Can you name this nature-inspired pattern?
Houndstooth
Herringbone
Chinoiserie
Floral
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

Floral patterns include many different designs made from flowers, seeds, berries or leaves. This style works in many different designs, but is most closely associated with cottage or shabby chic decor.

windowpane
Pixabay by Susannp4
Which pattern is named for a component used in home construction?
Windowpane
Ditsy
Ogee
Toile
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

WIndowpane check features widely-spaced squares. The pattern is so named because it resembles the panes of glass used in windows.

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liberty
Pixabay by SkadiArt
Can you name this pattern that originated in London?
Liberty
Houndstooth
Tatersall
Shepherd's check
Correct Answer
Wrong Answer

London designer Liberty and Company developed a popular allover print of small-scale designs - like flowers or polka dots - in the early 20th century. Today, this colorful pattern is closely associated with Art Noveau style.

You Got:
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Pixabay by TheDigitalArtist