Gingham is a failsafe spring and summer trend, and the last few years have seen it really soar in popularity. But even if you’re a fan of the trend, you might still be left wondering how to style gingham, especially since the Duchess of Cambridge was seen in a lovely pink gingham blouse during the Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
One idea for styling the design is to toughen up a gingham dress by pairing it with chunky ankle boots – it’s the most practical way to wear the trend on still-chilly early spring days. Chunky gold jewellery and ‘tough’ accessories like a slouchy black leather bag will also do the trick.
Of course, if you want to lean into gingham’s ‘twee-ness’ in all its glory then by all means do. Tiered skirts, puffed sleeves and frill-edged collars all play into gingham’s cutesy side – and are all current trends in their own right, so double style points to you.
Below, Katherine Ormerod shows us how to do gingham trousers without evoking chef vibes – simply steer clear of black and white versions (Katherine’s gone for navy here) and pair with a same-coloured top or jumper for a chic, tonal outfit.
If you want to up the style ante, try pairing a gingham dress with another of this season’s big trends, the knitted sweater vest. Follow Zoë de Pass’ (@dresslikeamum) lead by picking out one colour from your dress in your sweater vest for a pulled-together look.
And remember, gingham doesn’t just have to be neutral colours – opt for brights, pastels, or even an unexpected colour pairing like Karina’s (@styleidealist) lilac and pale green number below.
Meanwhile, gingham tops and blouses look great with light wash or white denim, but if you just want to dip a toe into the gingham pool, simply go for a bag or scrunchie first to test the waters.
For more ideas on how to style gingham and bring it into your wardrobe, keep scrolling for our pick of the best gingham fashion on the high street right now (including Kate Middleton’s very own pink blouse).
Best gingham fashion to buy on the high street now
Cotton gingham Chelsea collar blouse, £129, Brora
Charlie Maxi Dress, £75, Nobody’s Child
Gingham Orange Cotton Blouse, £55, Oliver Bonas
Wrap-effect gingham crepe mini skirt, £35 (was £140), Ganni, The Outnet
Smocked High Neck Shirt, £52.50 (was £75), Boden
Brown Gingham Shirred Frill Collar Midi Dress, £24.74 (was £32.99), New Look
Laura Swimsuit, £45, Nobody’s Child
Gingham print tiered dress green, £45.50 (was £65), Monsoon
Kin Gingham Tiered Midi Dress, £89, John Lewis
Gingham leggings, £22.99, ZARA
Green Gingham Dress, £89, Albaray
Checked blazer, £25.99, Reserved
Jigsaw Gingham V-Neck Midaxi Shirt Dress, £132 (was £165), M&S
Cotton shopper bag, £22.99, Mango
Margot Orange Gingham Midi Dress, £90 (was £145), KITRI
ASOS DESIGN tiered midi skirt with pockets in gingham, £25, ASOS
AND/OR Cindy Gingham Ruffle Top, Pink, £49, John Lewis
Green gingham loose fit drawstring trousers, £70, Glassworks
