How to style gingham this summer

Gingham isn’t making a comeback…because it never really left. This timeless check has long been tied to sunshine and carefree days outdoors, making it a warm-weather staple. In recent years, gingham has enjoyed a stylish revival through cottagecore trends and celebrity style moments. Keep scrolling to discover trending colour combos along with key fashion pieces and accessories to style the iconic print for the new season.

How do you style gingham for spring/summer 2026?

One of the best things about gingham is just how many ways you can wear it. From playful co-ords that take you from day to night, to maxi dresses perfect for family days out, the print adapts to every plan.

Trending gingham colour palettes for spring/summer

This year, gingham is getting a glow-up. While the picnic-ready red and white will always have its place, softer pastels, coastal blues and sharp monochrome are taking over.

Pink gingham

Pretty, playful and undeniably romantic, pink gingham taps into the ‘coquette’ and balletcore aesthetics taking over our social feeds. Embrace your soft-girl era with breezy summer dresses and feminine tops, complete with puff sleeves and delicate lace detailing for that extra romantic touch..

Red gingham

The classic red gingham never really goes out of style. But there’s more to it than just nostalgia. Best known by French women as the Vichy check, this print has a timeless charm that keeps it endlessly wearable. And if you don’t want your look to feel vintage, wear the print in subtler ways through accessories or footwear.

Blue gingham

Think of blue gingham as the sophisticated sibling of the traditional red. Crisp, relaxed and versatile, it channels Mediterranean summer dressing. Style a linen shirt with espadrilles and an oversized straw hat for that chic coastal vibe.

Black and white gingham

For a more modern twist, black and white gingham keeps things sharp and minimalist. The monochrome palette lets the check pattern take centre stage, making it perfect for anyone who loves neutrals but wants to experiment with prints.

Gingham dresses to fall for

There’s nothing a gingham dress can’t do. Versatile and fashionable, they’re perfect for museum visits, brunch dates and family BBQs. To exude effortless girlish charm, choose from our range of maxi and midi silhouettes in bright hues. Want to give your look a little edge? Throw on an oversized jacket. It’ll keep you warm on cooler evenings and give the outfit a youthful twist.

Styling gingham trousers and shorts

The easiest way to wear a bold print on the bottom is by adding gingham trousers or shorts. Lean into the ‘quiet luxury’ trend by styling them with a cardigan, buttoned-up vest or a blouse. For a more relaxed vibe, take your pick from crop tops, T-shirts and jumpers.

Styling tip: avoid the pyjama vibes by choosing structured fabrics like denim, cotton or wool and make sure there’s a defined waistband with a zip or button fly.

Trending gingham tops

Gingham tops have come a long way from the classic button-down. Today’s styles feel far more romantic and architectural. Trending puff-sleeve tops strike the perfect balance between polished and casual. They can be easily dressed up with tailored trousers or dressed down with capri leggings for brunch with friends.

If cottagecore is your vibe, the milkmaid top is a must. Its soft neckline and vintage-inspired shape bring a dreamy, romantic feel to your look. Stepping out for a date or self-care day? Style the top with a midi skirt and loafers for a look that’s equal parts feminine and practical.

Spotlight on gingham sets

If you’re ready to fully commit to the gingham trend, matching sets are the way to do it. Wearing the same print head-to-toe takes the guesswork out of pattern mixing. It also makes your outfit feel instantly curated and expensive-looking.

• Pyjamas: an easy way to bring the trend into your wardrobe is through gingham pyjamas. With boxy oversized shirts and relaxed wide-leg trousers, they give your evenings a relaxed, nostalgic mood.

• Bikinis: heading somewhere sunny? Gingham bikini sets are perfect for tropical escapes. Playful yet timeless, they give off effortless holiday energy.

• Activewear: gingham has even made its way into activewear, sitting at the intersection of ‘coquette’ style and high-performance athleisure. One standout silhouette is the capri legging, thanks to their cropped length and high-waisted fit. For a more fashion-forward outfit, try our Gingham Twist-front Active Crop Top. It’ll look just at home at the gym as it’ll during a coffee catchup with friends.

What accessories to wear with gingham

When styling gingham, the trick is balance. Since the print already makes a statement, the best accessories either lean into its rustic charm or add a sleek contrast. 

• Bags: straw bags, wicker totes and rattan styles are classic companions for gingham. They instantly enhance the print’s French-girl charm and are ideal for styling with dresses, co-ord sets or airy summer tops.

• Jewellery: keep things simple with gold-toned hoops or a dainty pendant necklace. If you’re dressing up for the evening, a few gold bracelets can add a subtle touch of glam. Pearl earrings or delicate floral hair accessories also pair perfectly for a soft cottagecore finish.

• Hats: straw and woven hats naturally complement gingham’s summery feel. For something trendier, try a gingham bucket hat for a coordinated look or go with a neutral cotton or linen version to ground the outfit. 

• Footwear: espadrilles and sandals with gingham trousers or tops are the epitome of summer. For a cool-girl contrast, style a gingham dress with chunky black loafers to toughen up the print. For everyday ease, white trainers keep the outfit fresh without competing with the pattern.

What is gingham?

Gingham is a yarn-dyed fabric known for its evenly sized check pattern. Usually made from pure cotton or cotton blends, the threads are dyed before weaving, creating the signature three-tone checks.

While gingham may feel like a fashion favourite today, it rose to popularity in the 1940s and 1950s, from practical rural workwear to a symbol of all-American charm. Today, the print is enjoying a revival, blending vintage nostalgia with modern styling. From cottagecore-inspired wardrobes to contemporary street style, gingham continues to evolve with the times.

FAQs

What is the difference between checkered and gingham?

• Checkered is a broad term for patterns made up of squares, while gingham is a specific type of check with its own distinctive look. It’s easy to confuse the two, but gingham typically features evenly sized checks created by weaving coloured and white threads together.

Why is gingham so popular?

• Gingham is a rare print that’s both comforting and versatile. It feels nostalgic and picnic-ready yet can also be styled for fashion-forward looks. From breezy dresses to tailored trousers and playful co-ords, it works for both casual and statement outfits. Adaptable and timeless, it’s easy to see why it never goes out of style! 

Is gingham in style in 2026?

• Yes, gingham is having a major moment in 2026. Designers and celebs are reimagining it in modern cuts and fresh colours. Classic black and white is still a staple, but expect pops of red, cornflower blue, grass green and chocolate brown. For the bold, gingham is even being mixed with other prints, like polka dots or stripes, for a playful, maximalist twist.