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Is Chevron Back? Olivia Wilde and Amal Clooney Seem to Think So

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When you hear the word “chevron” in relation to clothes, what do you think of? Perhaps you picture the oversize inverted V design splashed across jersey maxi skirts in bold primary hues popular in the 2010s. Maybe it’s Charlie Brown’s signature sweater that comes to mind. But soon, we predict, it will be stylish celebs like Olivia Wilde and Amal Clooney because, we hate to break it to you, but chevron is back.

Olivia Wilde and Amal Clooney wearing chevron print gowns
Getty Images

At least, according to some—i.e., the stylists and celebrities who have embraced the print of late—the graphic pattern is primed and ready to make a comeback. Chevron, a zig-zag pattern first made popular during the Art Deco movement of the ‘20s and ‘30s, had a brief return to the spotlight in the aughts and 2010s, but has pretty consistently been less popular than similar prints like herringbone or even houndstooth in recent years. And it wasn’t exactly abundant on the runways during fashion month, either for Fall/Winter ‘22/’23 or Spring/Summer ’23. But if the rise of street style has taught us anything it’s that design houses are no longer the end-all and be-all when it comes to determining which trends will rise and fall each season.

Three women wearing chevron printed clothing.
Getty Images

Earlier this month Olivia Wilde wore a gold and purple Gucci gown with bold chevron stripes, and Amal Clooney chose an Art Deco-inspired take on the print for an event in late September. Upon taking a second look through street style photos of attendees at this past September’s fashion month events, we spotted more chevron than we realized. Zig-zag-adorned knit maxi and mini dresses, oversize cardigans, wool coats and sporty zip-ups popped up time and time again. And of course we’d be remiss not to mention the rise in popularity of Missoni (which never went out of fashion, but has recently been surpassed by brands like Prada and Gucci), whose designers have made miniature rainbow-hued chevron stripes into something of a signature calling card for the brand beginning in the ‘60s.

Three women wearing chevron printed clothing.
Getty Images

So, how should we be wearing chevron as we head into 2023? There are a few approaches you can take. The easiest is to lean into a sportier vibe and opt for a sweater or zip-up with one or two large Vs splashed across the front. Another option is to go the Missoni route, with a dainty chevron design on a multi-color knit. Or, if you’re really not sure exactly how to start introducing this divisive pattern into your wardrobe, why not start with something small like a chevron handbag or a subtle tonal version rather than jumping straight into ‘60s black-and-white stripes?

Read on for nine cute chevron styles to buy and wear now to help you get ahead of the curve on this intriguing new trend.


A knit chevron midi skirt by Tory Burch.
Tory Burch

This navy-and-cream skirt is as comfy as it is stylish (it’s made from a cotton-nylon knit), and there’s even a matching polo shirt if you want to sport chevron from head to toe. And although those dark stripes are technically blue, it’s a dark enough shade that it won’t look odd next to black boots or a black coat, meaning you can wear it with even more pieces in your wardrobe.

Size range: XXS to XXL

A sequin chevron dress by Rixo.
My Theresa

If you want to embrace the trend for the holidays, try this gorgeous sequin midi in festive red, gold and green stripes. The back is also open with a black velvet tie that is strategically placed to make it easier to cover a bra if you don’t want to go braless.

Size range: XXS to XL

A black and white print sweater by Mother.
Bloomingdale’s

Why wear just one bold trend when you can rock two? Checkerboard was one of the biggest trends of 2022, making this sweater a very fun combo of old and new. Plus, the wool is ultra-soft for a dreamy feel.

Size range: XS to XL

A colorful chevron sweater by Missoni.
Net-a-Porter

You can never go wrong with a classic Missoni knit, but especially now the chevron pieces by the brand are definitely worth investing in. Just be sure not to wear any jewelry that might snag on the delicate cotton-wool threads.

Size range: IT36 to IT48

A plus size model wearing a green midi dress from ASOS
ASOS

This subtle tonal approach to chevron is great for anyone not feeling the graphic ‘60s variations that were popular in the 2010s. It also comes in a golden yellow and pale lilac if green isn’t really your vibe.

Size range: 12 to 26

tory burch chevron sweater
Tory Burch

For the sporty gal, this classic knit is a timeless silhouette you can wear even if the chevon trend doesn’t last ‘til summer. And the cashmere material? Every bit as soft and luxurious as you hope it will be.

Size range: XS to XL

A chevron midi dress from Revolve.
Revolve

This Missoni-inspired midi can be made to work for multiple seasons. For colder months, just add some brown knee-high boots and a coordinating cardigan, and in summer try mixing in some boldly-colored accessories to really play up those jaunty zig-zags.

Size range: 0 to 14

A pink chevron blouse by Ulla Johnson
Hampden Clothing

Another tonal style, this cotton blouse is a great option for casual Fridays at work or other events where you’d rather be a little buttoned up (no pun intended).

Size range: 0 to 12

A chevron raffia and faux leather bag by River Island
ASOS

Not ready to commit to a full chevron look? Try swapping your usual crossbody for this black, cream and beige style to start easing your way into the trend.



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Editor

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