A simple model of the formation of the chevron structure and tilted layer s
tructure in the smectic C liquid crystal phase from the bookshelf structure
in the smectic A phase is considered. Energetic considerations of this sys
tem indicate that in the absence of layer pinning forces at the surface, a
transition to the tilted structure is expected. However, combining the mode
l with 'weak' surface positional anchoring effects allows the chevron struc
ture to form.