It’s easy to underestimate the power of the square, so simple and familiar are its proportions. But it’s worth noting that, with the circle and the triangle, the square forms the basis of so-called ‘Sacred Geometry’, the three shapes which are believed to dictate life itself. 

These basic forms are agreed to determine art, architecture and design, for example, and, given its structure, it is fitting that the square is symbolised by four constituent parts: stability, strong foundations, order and the fixed nature of matter. It follows that grids and squares provide the framework within which sports and game-playing exists, from football pitches to tennis nets to checkerboards.  

Meanwhile such geometric arrangements have long been a feature of subcultural aesthetics, in particular the clean lines and disciplined styles as expressed down the decades from Modernism through Mod, Suedehead and 2 Tone where fashion and visual identity emphasises smartness, meticulous construction and perfectly-realised detailing.

And where sport and subcultures meet, the sharpness of Fred Perry style is located.  Such patterns play a prominent part in the brand’s visual identity, from the graphics used for gig events to the use of alternating square piping, the lining in certain outerwear, the contemporary colourways of the classic check shirts and panelling on the classic 5-4-4 Polo Shirt.

From tennis nets to chequerboards, how the humble square makes up the building blocks of our 2024 collection.