A Modern Approach to Gingham

Gingham tends to conjure up images of little girls in pastel-colored sundresses and picnics, and no doubt it has a ladylike vibe, but when done right the trend can inject a dose of whimsy into your everyday wardrobe without going over the top. For one thing, we’re seeing a lot of black & white gingham, which moves the look into sweet and sexy Brigitte Bardot territory. Or mixing gingham prints and colors gives the print a street-style look. Be careful with ruffles which definitely move the look in a girly, youthful direction, so use carefully and only if you’re going for a sugary vibe. And don’t dress your mini-me to match… THAT would be a little over the top. We are big fans of toughening up feminine looks by styling them with menswear or denim. If you’re committed to solids and prints scare you, there’s always great accessories to choose from to add a quick pop of personality to your basics.

Look 1 | Mix gingham with denim and chunky platforms for a festival look. The pink adds a little extra something, don’t you think?

Denim Vest, Mango // Tee, J. Crew // Shorts, Mango // Wedges, Stuart Weitzman // Bracelet Stack, Cara

Look 2 | Blurred gingham embraces the trend, but in a new, modern way. We are wearing this casual, pulled together look to our kids’ games and activities, plus to run errands.

Top, Marc Jacobs // Jeans, Mango // Oxfords, Joie

Look 3 | The always-flattering DVF wrap dress goes gingham for spring. We love the mix of big and small checks, plus black & white is one of our all-time favorite combos (along with womankind everywhere). This works beautifully for the office or a luncheon.

Dress, Diane von Furstenberg // Booties, Maison Margiela // Bucket Bag, Elizabeth & James

Look 4 | We are lusting over this pink confection of gingham and Ikat print… The dress is so amazing — keep your shoes neutral, but we added a second pop of color with the jewelry.

Dress, Oscar de la Renta // Sandals, Stuart Weitzman // Earrings, Kendra Scott