"One of the things I love most about summer fashion is the freedom. More than any other time of year, getting dressed in the summer is all about choosing pieces that are effortless, fun, and practical. The season inspires a tendency to throw fashion “rules” out the window—opting instead to dress in whatever feels right in the moment.
Despite variance in personal preference, there are a few themes that come back into the spotlight every May through August. Linen pants, straw bags, the perfect black bathing suit, and—especially popular this summer—gingham everything. While the quaint pattern is akin to a dear friend we’ve known our whole lives—raise your hand if you ever dressed up as Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz for Halloween—its recent appeal has been hard to ignore.
From now until back-to-school, I know I personally want to rock this nostalgic gingham fashion trend every single day.
Breaking down the gingham fashion trend
While gingham has been a staple summer pattern since the beginning of time (at least since the 1940s, thank you, Ms. Garland), there are a few components at play making it a modern pattern of choice.
The first consideration is microtrends. While TikTok aesthetics aren’t as prominent as they were during the COVID years, they still maintain a presence online. Picniccore started gaining traction in summer 2024 and found popularity among those who value romanticism. In fashion, this trend is all about capturing an air of simple, elevated beauty. Unsurprisingly, gingham is a key component.
While picniccore remains quietly relevant, Americana-inspired fashion has been the aesthetic finding its wings this summer. Given its nostalgic nature and foothold in American history, gingham is a core theme of this fashion trend as well. The pattern can also be spotted across coastal grandmother, fisherman, and cottagore core looks—a concrete nod to its versatility.
The convergence of these trends paired with the pattern’s fluidity and classicism means gingham isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
How to wear gingham this summer as a mom
I’ve been a gingham fan for quite some time now. I love how accessible the pattern has become across retailers and am looking forward to truly leaning into the trend through the months ahead. Here are some of my favorite mom-friendly, gingham-first outfit ideas for summer.
Grab a matching set
The internet is practically bursting with adorable-yet-chic gingham sets. Whether it’s a cozy knit sweater pant and cardi combo or breezy boxer pants styled alongside a matching top, donning a set is a winning hack for moms. It’s an easy way to get dressed quickly while still feeling put together.
Hop on the boxer shorts fashion trend with a gingham pattern
If you’ve been loving the boxer shorts and pants trend, then I bring good news: There are countless gingham options available in these shopping categories. Ultra comfortable and super cute—what’s not to love? Style with your favorite neutral tank, sweater, or blouse.
Don a statement dress
I personally love a gingham dress. In fact, I own more than I probably “need.” But there is something just so satisfying about this one-and-done feminine approach to summer outfitting. Plus, someone once told me my gingham dress made me look like Elle Woods. Need I say more?
Style this statement piece with your favorite summer sandals and handbag—I promise it’s an outfit combo you’ll come back to again and again.
Add interest with a fun accessory
If a bold gingham print dress doesn’t align with your personal style, consider incorporating the trend through a well-placed accessory. A few years ago, I acquired a green gingham tote bag, and it is one of my favorite summer pieces to date. I love how it adds visual interest to every outfit without feeling too loud.
Style it with denim
Nothing screams all-American summer more than gingham and denim paired together. Think: A gingham button-down styled with denim shorts. Or a gingham tote bag worn with your favorite denim dress. Whereas gingham is feminine and eye-catching, denim is much more structured and straightforward. Because the juxtaposition isn’t too abrupt, together the two create a combo that is both well-balanced and striking.
Make gingham part of your Fourth of July ensemble
There’s no holiday that begs for gingham like the Fourth. Between the fireworks, hot dogs, and height-of-summer July heat, it’s a time to pull out all the Americana stops. Once the sun goes down, style your favorite gingham fashion pieces (such as a pair of shorts) with an also-trending American flag sweater and a pair of cowboy boots. If subtly is more your style, opt for simple pieces in navy and white and a classic summer sandal.
Our favorite gingham pieces to shop
Gingham dresses & jumpsuits
Gingham bottoms
7 colors and patterns available
sizes XXS – XL
Gingham tops
Gingham accessories & swimsuits
10+ colors and patterns available
sizes XS – 4X
complete the set with the matching bottoms
Matching mom & kid gingham outfits
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The Everygirl Media Group has brought valuable content to our readers for 12+ years. In 2018, The Everymom set out to ensure that all moms know they’re not alone. If you find yourself seeking advice on how to style the latest fashion trend or searching for the best kid-friendly coffee table, we have the answers. And if you’re wondering what’s actually worth it from a sale or looking for a review of the hottest new kids’ product, we’ve got that covered too. From our annual Registry Awards and beloved holiday gift guides to the shopping round-ups you find on our site every day, The Everymom commerce team is well-versed in sifting through thousands of products to curate a digestible list for you. We combine our own experience with in-depth research to bring you a selection that meets our high standards for both fashion and function.
Emilee Janitz, Contributing Writer
Emilee is an accomplished communications strategist and lifestyle journalist. She currently works on the content team at Enterprise SEO company Terakeet where she creates and executes reputation management strategies for Fortune 500 companies. She is a Contributing Fashion Writer for The Everygirl and has additionally been published on POPSUGAR, Motherly, MSN, and Yahoo.