Menswear takes on skate culture’s checkerboard motif

Proof that skate shoes aren’t just for skaters anymore

Friday 18 August 2017 12:40 EDT

Givenchy adopted the optical grid with a collection overcharged with busy prints (Getty)

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A pattern synonymous with rebellion and teenage angst, checkerboard garb has dominated runways of late but it hasn’t always been a fashion-world staple.

Best known as the signature print of retro skate brand Vans, its humble beginnings started with unruly youths doodling on the sides of their shoes and, when the brand took notice in the late 1970s, the recurring checker print was born.

From Fast Times at Ridgemont High’s stoner Jeff Spicoli to Jared Leto and Wiz Khalifa, over the years checkerboards have adorned the well-dressed feet of rock stars, sports stars and angsty adolescents alike to become a sartorial skate-culture signature.

But now, as menswear moves towards a more “don’t give a f***” aesthetic, its return to the fashion fold is nigh.

For spring/summer 2017, Givenchy adopted the optical grid with a collection overcharged with busy prints. Here, warrior-like models stormed the runway wearing everything from crossbody pouches and leather bags to trainers, suit jackets and desert-ready harnesses swathed in the stuff.

While some argued that the patterns skewed a little close to Louis Vuitton’s Damier check, Riccardo Tisci insisted that his take was inspired by games, more specifically the game of life.

Proof that it’s a trend that’s here to stay, designers such as MSGM extended the look to their autumn/winter offerings too.

MSGM put checkerboard patterns on everything from bombers to vintage fur (AFP/Getty) (AFP/Getty Images)

Here, an otherwise youthful collection was combined with aristocratic style and gutsy athleticism that saw checkerboard patterns on everything from bombers and shearlings to geometric patches on puffers and vintage fur.

When it comes to real-life wear though, the line between conceding to the checker’s rebellious roots and veering into costume territory is a fine one.

While the patterned sneakers remain a staple in most men’s wardrobes, these days you can get the print on pretty much anything – think socks, shirts, hoodies and even bags – all of which will channel a little bit of flare into your look.

Simply pair with a neutral palette of black, white and grey wardrobe basics so you don’t look too try hard.