Two weeks ago, I dug out my textile college book, Fabric Science. I wanted to use it as a resource to explore the origins of some lovely summer fabrics, like chambray, linen, seersucker, polka dot, and gingham — the inspiration for today’s post.
What is gingham?
According to The Fashion Book by Phaidon, gingham is from the Malayan genggang, meaning stripe, and refers to a pattern of solid-color squares made by overlapping lines of the same width. Simple, carefree, and timeless is what comes to mind.
Gingham is not just for picnics, garden parties, or traveling to the Land of Oz. Since the 1600s, the checkered print has become a beautiful fashion staple. Gingham typically gives off a classic preppy vibe that is perfect for warmer weather.
The TImeline for Gingham:
The Memorable Gingham Moments:
Gingham is always a summer favorite of mine. See below how I keep my summer wardrobe in check wearing gingham.
In 2015, I wore a Bigio gingham dress in my post-Watermelon Man. The following year, in my Gut Check Post, I wore J.Crew’s navy gingham jacket. The following year, Talbot’s pink gingham jacket was in the post, Another See and Do in Da’Burgh, and finally, that same year, I wore a long Kate Spade gingham shirtdress over pants in 2017.
As you can see, I’m on the gingham bandwagon! What about you? Let me know in the comments section.
Thank you for reading. Have a fabulous week.
