The renaissance of checkerboard patterns has been one of the defining trends of the year. 2022 saw an unmistakable revival of the checkerboard trend that has not re-emerged since slip-on Vans came back into fashion in the 2000s. This classic pattern has been a favorite in the fashion industry for decades and has made a comeback in recent years, appearing on everything from sneakers to bags to clothing.
The checkerboard trend has been associated with the skateboarding and punk subcultures since the 1970s, but it became popular again in the early 2000s with the rise of slip-on Vans featuring the pattern. This trend was a hallmark of the era and was embraced by both mainstream and alternative subcultures. However, after its peak, the checkerboard trend faded away for about a decade.
Fast forward to today, and we’ve seen a renewed interest in the checkerboard, particularly with the resurgence of 90s and early 2000s fashion. Slip-on Vans are back and the checkerboard pattern has been spotted on clothing and other accessories too. Celebrities like Harry Styles have been spotted wearing checkerboard pieces, bringing the trend to a wider audience with fans of course following suit.
One reason for the checkerboard’s continued popularity could be its association with nostalgia. The early 2000s are now considered a “retro” era, and people are looking back with fondness.
