It’s funny the way trends work. Often, they’ll start on the catwalk and filter down to the high street via some of our favourite celebrities. Sometimes they’ll begin as a ubiquitous street style look and bubble upwards, forcing designers to take note. But in the case of gingham, a huge trend for spring/summer 2025, it feels like the high street is leading the charge.

It was Zara’s red check skirt that first made me sit up and take notice. Styled with an of-the-moment, clean-line suede jacket and a simple white vest, gingham suddenly seemed relevant. Then, as soon as I’d seen it once, I started seeing it everywhere. Beyond Nine’s gingham trousers, the perfect gingham dress at Nobody’s Child and Simply Be’s quilted jacket – all gorgeous. 

Part of gingham’s charm is its timelessness. Because it isn’t a huge catwalk trend this season, brands are having fun with it. You can invest in the print now and wear for seasons to come, without looking like you’re rooted very specifically in spring/summer 2025. Henrietta Rix, co-founder of Rixo agrees: “We see gingham as a timeless, versatile print that perfectly blends our vintage inspiration with modern style.”

So, the only thing left to decide is exactly how to wear it. Because, despite gingham’s charm, there is always a worry in the back of my mind that it can so very easily tip into twee territory. Read on for some tips on how to style it and for some of the best gingham pieces of the season.

As gingham is often associated with feminine style, opting for androgynous cuts – like this boxy button-down shirt – switches things up. Styling with a black skirt, flat shoes and heavy-rimmed glasses adds edge to the pretty print. A simple, clean-lined gingham piece will also look good with laid-back denim and square-toe flats highlighting the versatility of the statement-print/simple-styling theme.  

If print feels a little out of your comfort zone, start small. Turn up the cuffs on a gingham lined trench to display just a flash of check. Worn with all-black and bold trainers, gingham adds a touch of fun to a low-key look and enhances the spring feel of what might be more of a transitional outfit. Damson Madder’s amazing reversible gingham trench has already sold out on pre-order, but Sézane has a timeless Clyde trench with checked lining available.

Khaki trousers are one of the most worn pieces in my wardrobe. They go with everything. They also have the ability to make anything – from a white T-shirt to a flowing blouse – look cool. The blown-up gingham on this scarf top gives the print a new dimension, and worn with the khaki, it’s the perfect mix. Just add slick black accessories.   

There’s a lot to be said for keeping it simple with one-step dressing, and gingham dresses are going to be everywhere come summer. Make sure you choose contemporary dress shapes – like a shirred bodice or chic dropped waist – and then add bold gold hoops and simple leather flats to finish the look. A pair of Mary Janes is the perfect addition here.  

Gingham really brings the drama here. The statement print needs no further adornment and works well with block colour neutrals. Pair a black and white gingham with low-key cream wide-leg trousers. Then add a subtle earthy brown bag and trainers to give the look some depth.  

Images: Getty, courtesy of brands