How do I pull off gingham prints?
Gingham can be a tricky print for anyone older than 10 to pull off. If not used for a kindergarten uniform, it is printed on polyester fabric and spread across the grass as a picnic mat.
But fashion designers love to surprise us with the unexpected - Stella McCartney and Victoria Beckham designed figure-hugging maxi dresses in the print. American supermodel Gigi Hadid appeared in this month's Vogue wearing a gingham bikini. Suddenly, gingham is less sweet and more grown-up.
Here are some tips on how to style this print:
• For a lady-like take on the trend, pick styles such as wrap dresses, pencil skirts or silk blouses that show a bit of skin. For a sportier look, go for a rockabilly bowling shirt or slim-fit trousers.
• Gingham and jeans go together like bread and butter, but avoid the cliche of wearing a knotted gingham shirt with blue jeans. A denim shirt, with a gingham-print pair of pants or shorts, or skirt, looks more modern.
• For the more adventurous, pair gingham with other prints, such as florals and stripes, or textures such as lace.
• A medium-sized check is ideal if you are wearing the print from top to toe (such as a dress), but if you are wearing the print on your bottom, stick to small checks as the pattern has a slimming effect.
Here are some picks.
1. Multicoloured dress, $69.90, from Zara
A breezy dress is suitable for hot weekends. Wear it with a straw bag and strappy sandals.
2. Blue-and-white cotton dress with front ruffle detail, $189.90, from Elohim By Sabrina Goh
Pair this with a navy blue or white Panama hat and a denim jacket.
3. Black-and-white bowfront bra top, $49, from American Eagle Outfitters
If the top is too risque for you, wear a white crew-necked T-shirt underneath.
4. Amy Winehouse x Henry Hate bowling shirt, $199, from Fred Perry
If wearing jeans with this rock 'n' roll top is too predictable, pair it with a pencil or A-line skirt for a more feminine look.
5. Dove-grey halterneck playsuit, $116, from Topshop
Wear a belt to accentuate your waist, sling a small crossbody bag and finish with sneakers or flats for a sweet and sexy look.
