Gingham has always been a timeless print, but it's back in the sartorial spotlight since the Princess of Wales wore it to the DMMI Royal Charity Polo Cup 2026.
Supporting Prince William, Kate looked beautiful in Temperley London’s Stirling dress, which featured a chic square neckline, flattering back tie waist and elegant midi length. She completed the look with nude Camilla Elphick slingbacks, Sézane’s Gabrielle earrings, and Ralph Lauren sunglasses.
While the royal seal of approval has reignited interest in the summer staple, the enduring appeal of a gingham dress lies in its versatility. It looks just as good with barely-there sandals for heatwave days as it does with heels for summer occasions or box-fresh trainers for an effortless weekend look.
- The daytime dress: M&S Gingham Midi Waisted Dress, £38 / $67.99
- The occasion dress: Reformation Sorrel Dress, £198 / $198
- The prairie dress: Rixo Chandra Cotton Midi Dress, £225 / $325
- The holiday dress: Faithfull Laia Checked Maxi Dress, £260 / $280
There's one to suit every style, so to help you find the perfect piece, I've curated an edit of gingham dresses that all deserve a place in your rotation this season.
The best gingham dresses to shop this summer
M&S Gingham Midi Waisted Dress
Editor's Note:
Marks & Spencer's top-rated gingham dress is a bestseller this summer. It features gathered round neck ties at the back, a flattering elasticated waist and short lightly puffed sleeves.
Reformation Sorrel Dress
Editor's Note:
If you want to inject some colour into your summer wardrobe, I love Reformation's Sorrel dress in red gingham. The midi has a slim-fitting silhouette and is a piece that can easily be elevated with accessories.
Rails Adine Dress
Editor's Note:
Rails' bestselling Adine dress is made from a lightweight cotton blend and features a fitted bodice falling to a full skirt. It's the perfect daytime summer style.
Nobody's Child Gingham Shirred Audrey Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Nobody's Child has one of the best selections of gingham pieces, and with its V-neckline, bra-friendly back and elasticated waist, this is a great cut for curvier figures. It even has pockets.
Faithfull Laia Checked Maxi Dress
Editor's Note:
I love the delicate check print and red shade of this gingham midi dress by Faithfull. The brand is known for its stylish and flattering cuts, and this is made from 100% organic cotton.
Dissh Petra Check Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
This flattering midi dress from Australian export Dissh features a trending drop waist, practical adjustable straps and pretty frill detail. Dress it up with wedges or down with a slouchy cardigan and slides.
Rixo Chandra Cotton Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Go prairie style with this beautiful piece from Rixo. Made from 100% cotton, it's partially lined and shirred for a flexible fit. It features a square neckline and ruffle shoulder detail.
Free People For Love & Lemons Venus Mini Dress
Editor's Note:
I love this gingham dress styled with chunky boots for a festival this summer. The vintage-inspired mini has a flattering A-line silhouette and a hidden layer of built-in shorts.
Arket Seersucker Dress
Editor's Note:
The ultimate everyday dress, this Arket midi is made from 99% cotton with a hint of stretch. It features a chic boat neck and an ankle-grazing length.
& Other Stories Draped Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
If you're looking for something that says eveningwear, & Other Stories' gingham dress has a slinkier fit with flattering draping and cute self-ties at the shoulders.
Stradivarius Gingham Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
This Stradivarius midi dress is adorned in a red gingham print with a V-neckline and delicate adjustable straps. It also features an invisible side zip fastening and subtle front bow detail.
