Abstract: In nature, surface morphologies of organisms endow them versatile functions, e.g., drag reduction, strong adhesion, superhydrophobicity. Inspired by nature, researchers have made great progress in building micro/nano- patterns on planar substrate surfaces. However, the research on the patterning on fiber surface and its effect on the properties of fiber materials is still insufficient. In this paper, current construction methods of surface patterning on fiber surfaces were summarized, and fundamental mechanism of three “bottom-up” strategies was briefly described. Additionally, the influence of surface patterning on their properties was analyzed, and other potential applications of fiber materials in the future was prospected. Finally, the development trends of construction methods, formation mechanism and application were prospected. The purpose of this paper is to provide reference for both the construction of surface patterning on fibers and wide engineering applications of functional fiber/fabric.