Gingham — whether in the form of a flirty sundress or a sweet collared shirt — is a warm-weather classic that transcends time, qualifying itself as a must-have for every closet and capsule wardrobe. But if your style sensibilities are more modern muse than prepster chic, getting on board with gingham might be a tall order. Not to worry — donning the tried-and-true check print doesn’t automatically mean your outfit assumes an overly “precious” aesthetic. Styled alongside the right threads, it instantly becomes a sartorial MVP, injecting a unique flavor into any #OOTD. The key to pulling it off? An arsenal of elevated closet basics and Insta-worthy accessories with RN appeal. This week’s Style Resolutions is taking gingham head on, showing you three easy ways to wear it all season — at the office, out with the girls and chillin’ on the weekend — without compromising that hard-earned street-style cred. Scroll on to totally transform your approach to this sweet and chic style.
How to Wear Gingham for Work
Rule number one when going all-out gingham: Look to trend-right interpretations of classic styles for a contemporary look that won’t steer you wrong. Case in point: this pajama-style stunner. With bedroom basics reigning supreme on the streets, this pale blue number feels right on cue. Swap it in for your standard white button-down and proceed to pair it with a sassy wrap skirt (complete with an HR-approved slit, of course) and flatform kicks that put an unexpected twist on traditional black pumps. With warm weather in full swing, it’s time to lighten up on the blazer front, so pop a bomber-inspired sleeveless duster (with a touch of ’90s flair) to round out the outfit and add a note of casual-cool. Dress it up with a hint of glitz, then dash out the door with all your essentials stashed in a minimalist, two-tone backpack.
Madewell Gingham Piped Pajama Shirt ($75) + Mango Buckle Wrap Skirt ($60), Topshop Sporty Sleeveless Duster ($95), Charles & Keith Lace-Up Espadrille Sandals ($49), J.Crew Chambray Crystal Earrings ($78), Edge of Ember Satori Pyramid Ring ($55), Kestrel Luminous Grid Backpack ($198), Dolce&Gabbana Beauty Nail Lacquer in Passione ($27)
How to Wear Gingham for a Night Out
Because a blasé bodycon just doesn’t live up to your haute style standards, look to your gingham top and a pair of sleek silvery culottes to give your GNO getup a much-needed boost. Punctuate the ensemble with high-octane accessories, like a sunny yellow clutch and playful printed platforms, for a dance floor-ready ensemble that’s guaranteed to steal the show (don’t worry — they won’t take away from your killer moves). A swipe of berry lipstick adds to the drama, while a satin jacket and gilded tassel earrings (of which you only wear one, paired with a simple stud) are all you need for a sophisticated finish.
Madewell Gingham Piped Pajama Shirt ($75) + Zara Metallic Skort ($36), ASOS Hot Springs Platform Sandals ($73), Rebecca Minkoff Leo Saffiano Zip-Trim Clutch Bag ($95), Topshop Satin Pyjama Style Jacket ($125), Zara 3 Pack of Earrings ($20), Smashbox Be Legendary Matte Lipstick in Femme Fatale ($21)
How to Wear Gingham for the Weekend
Shaking up your weekend t-shirt-and-jeans routine just got a whole lot easier with this gingham shirt on standby. Consider the PJ-style topper and a pair of patched cutoffs (the brighter the better) your canvas for quirky and eclectic details that are ready for a summer concert series or a lazy afternoon in the park. Striped shades and a bright pom-pom embellished hat keep harsh rays at bay while letting those free-wheelin’ vibes flow. Colorful kicks that can hold it down no matter what’s on your weekend agenda are so necessary, as is a pint-sized crossbody bag that gives you a much-needed break from that loaded work-week tote. Skip the baubles (okay, maybe throw in a few stacking rings) and pop a few cheeky pins on your collar for good measure.
Madewell Gingham Piped Pajama Shirt ($75) + Zara Embroidered Denim Shorts ($40), Veja Arcadia B-Mesh Bahia Natural Sneakers ($113), Missguided Pom Pom Tassel Festival Straw Hat ($20), Free People Sunny Cher Sunnies ($240), Nasty Gal Romy Iridescent Crossbody Bag ($58), Valley Cruise Press Groovy Rainbow Pin ($12), Valley Cruise Press Silly Goose Pin ($12)
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