When it comes to the quintessential summer wardrobe, there are a few pieces that every woman should have in rotation: a flirty summer dress, a comfy pair of sandals, and of course something gingham. Whether it’s a checkered off-the-shoulder top or cute gingham wrap skirt, the kitschy pattern instantly adds a cheerful, summery touch to any ensemble. Read on to learn more about the warm-weather staple. Then scroll down to see 8 chic ways to put a fresh spin on the timeless print this summer.
What is Gingham?
Gingham is a lightweight cotton blend fabric with a checkered pattern. Typically, the check pattern is black and white, but gingham also comes in other bold colors like red, blue, or green. This timeless pattern became a summertime staple back in the 50’s and 60’s (and yes, it is the classic print found on a picnic blanket), but today’s gingham fashions have been given cool modern upgrades thanks to sultry cutouts, ruffled details, and sleek silhouettes.
1. Gingham Dresses Make for Easy Breezy Summer Outfits
Retro Vibes:
DRESS: PETERSYN, HAT: ECHO, BAG: JASON WU
A simple blue gingham dress is a classic piece that will never go out of style. To help show off your shape, find an option that comes with a waist-cinching belt. Complete the look with other summer staples like a floppy hat and a structured shoulder bag that’s big enough to carry all the essentials.
Cute and Contemporary:
DRESS: LOVESHACKFANCY, EARRINGS: MARNI, SUNGLASSES: ELIZABETH AND JAMES
The classic black and white gingham is reimagined with this asymmetrical ruffled dress. Throw on your favorite strappy heels and oversized sunnies for a glamorous touch, and add a pop of color with a pair of bold statement earrings.
2. Incorporate a Gingham Top into Your Off-Duty Ensembles
Cool yet Casual:
TOP: CUPCAKES AND CASHMERE, JEANS: CITIZENS OF HUMANITY, BAG: REBECCA MINKOFF
For a laid-back look to sport on the weekends, pair an off-the-shoulder check top with your favorite pair of jeans. Wear the duo with a summery straw bag and sandals from your at-home closet.
Chic and Sleek:
TOP: TIBI, SKIRT: BAILEY 44, NECKLACE: GORJANA
If you are headed to a date night, put your curves on display by tucking a silky gingham top into a form-fitting skirt. Add a dainty gold choker and a pair of heels to really up the wow factor.
3. For a Flirty and Feminine Look, Opt for a Gingham Skirt
Short and Sweet:
SHIRT: CAARA, SKIRT: DRAPER JAMES X ELOQUII, BAG: ANYA HINDMARCH
We love combining two summer staples like a tie-front blouse and a gingham wrap skirt. Avoid looking too kitschy by pairing them with a black structured bag and simple slides.
Dress it up:
TOP: SHOSHANNA, SKIRT: KATE SPADE, EARRINGS: DANNIJO
Headed to a formal affair? Switch things up and leave your LBD behind in favor of a rented high-waisted checkered midi skirt. Balance out the flared bottom with a silk crop top that skims just above the top of the skirt. Dress the look up even more with chic metallic drop earrings.
4. Rock Gingham Pants or Shorts for a Sleek Tailored Feel
Stylish Office Wear:
BLAZER: DEREK LAM 10 CROSBY, TOP: ADELYN RAE, PANTS: THEORY
Make the retro print office-appropriate by reaching for a tailored cropped gingham pant. Keep things covered with a slimming black blazer during work hours, but be sure to leave the outerwear at your desk when you leave for happy hour.
Fun Take on the Trend:
SWEATER: KATE SPADE, SHORTS: JOIE, BAG: LIEBESKIND
If you prefer shorts in the summertime, rent a cute checkered pair to style with all your favorite basics. Wear them with crisp white sneakers and keep your hands free with a cool crossbody bag.
5. Sport a Gingham Romper for a Super Summery Look
ROMPER: DIANE VON FURSTENBERG, BAG: 3.1 PHILLIP LIM, EARRINGS: SLATE & WILLOW
If you are looking to step out of your comfort zone and try something you might not normally shop for, rent a cute romper in clashing gingham prints. Since the one-and-done piece makes a statement on its own, stick with neutral accessories.
6. Look Poised and Polished in a Gingham Matching Set
TOP: ALEXIS, SKIRT: ALEXIS, SUNGLASSES: ELIZABETH & JAMES
A coordinated set is the easiest way to look pulled together without really trying. Wear the gingham pieces together and then mix and match them with other separates from your closet. The checkered possibilities are endless!
7. Test the Waters with a Gingham Trimmed Piece
DRESS: SLATE & WILLOW, WATCH: SHINOLA, SUNGLASSES: BALENCIAGA
Still aren’t sure if you can pull off the retro pattern? Rent a solid dress that features a checkered trim. This will allow you to try out the trend without committing to a full-on gingham ensemble.
8. Reach for a Gingham Accessory
TOP: COOPER & ELLA, JEANS: J BRAND, BACKPACK: KATE SPADE
Another great way to test out gingham is to sport an accessory in the print. A checkered backpack is a fun way to liven up any summer outfit. Or you can add some flair with a pair of statement gingham earrings!
Whether you choose a summery dress, cool separates, or even an accessory, up your gingham game by renting these checkered pieces now.