It seems that fashion is well and truly ‘done’ with quiet luxury. From blooming hibiscus florals to retro stripemaxxing and tomato motifs, designers are collectively embracing unapologetic maximalism. ‘Tis indeed gearing up to be a summer of prints.
The latest aesthetic to take hold? Checks. Typically reserved for winter (think punkish Vivienne Westwood plaid and Nova-lined Burberry trench coats), checks have received a climate-appropriate treatment this season.
Geometric designs are increasingly being set against pastel hues, from mini dresses to midi skirts and Ascot-ready mules. Make no mistake, we’re not solely talking about gingham - a classic British summer staple - but unmissable, large swathes of crisscross designs that make for a modern take on warmer weather dressing.
Naturally, the runways set the tone. For spring/summer 2026, Emilia Wickstead produced ethereal checkered dresses in sunny shades of lemon yellow, powder blue and pistachio green. Likewise, the late great Paul Costelloe yielded inspiration from 1960s film star Sharon Tate, fashioning babydoll frocks, capris and mini skirts from Barbie-hued checked tweed.
© Imaxtree
© Imaxtree
© Imaxtree
© Imaxtree
© Imaxtree
© ImaxtreeBurberry rehashed its penchant for checked charm, cladding waxed button-down raincoats in a mustard-lime iteration of the print. Acne and Kiko Kostadinov coolly subverted the traditional design, crafting deconstructed, lumberjack-inspired layers from sleeveless shirts to patchwork jumpsuits.
© GC ImagesNot forgetting Mr Matthieu Blazy, who continues to fuel fashion fervour over at Chanel. The creative has successfully breathed new life into Coco’s signature checked bouclé, most recently championed by Oscar winner Teyana Taylor at Chanel’s Tribeca Festival Artists Dinner during the 2026 Tribeca Festival hosted earlier this week.
Sold? So are we. Discover our favourite checked pieces to shop for SS26 below.
Checked pieces to shop for summer:
Halterneck Maxi Dress
Topshop
Didn't you hear? It's a Topshop summer. The brand's unmissable checked gown is topping our wish list - complete with a moody blue-purple colourway, a halterneck silhouette and contrasting polka dot panels.
Checked Asymmetric Skirt
Mango
Girlish and ethereal with a hint of checked Y2K flair, Mango's affordable midi skirt will pair perfectly with your favourite cami top and cowboy boots.
Camero Kit Shoulder Bag
Acne Studios
Acne Studios continues to master luxury style with playful edge. The brand's delightful checked bag in a pale green-buttercream hue is cut from buttery smooth leather and peppered with handy pockets.
Jardin Shorts
Gimaguas
It-girl label Gimaguas is brimming with checked gems to consider adding to your summer arsenal. We adore the label's ruffled mini skirt, which is printed with a sweet pink design and features built in shorts.
Picnic Bikini Shortie
Fruity Booty
Fresh in at Fruity Booty, these nostalgic checked bootie shorts are set to elevate your beachside style with ease. Complete the set with the brand's matching bikini top here.
Sabina Mini Godet Dress
Damson Madder
Damson Madder is another widely adored brand that loves a checked piece or two. The Sabina Mini Godet Dress features a 60s-inspired babydoll silhouette, finished with feminine puff sleeves, a scooped neckline and a romantic swing style.
Apron Checked Printed Top
The prettiest checked top we ever did see, Anna Sui's halterneck stunner is fresh off the runway. Note the dreamy lilac tone and girlish yet boho-infused halterneck style.
French Knickers
Martine Rose
Boxer short styles are having a serious moment. Destined for stylish days mooching at home or weekends out and about, Martine Rose's checkered bottoms are set to delight fashion insiders. Team yours with an oversized tee or button-down shirt.
Santana Top
Faithfull
Lean into prairie style with a helping hand from Faithfull. The brand's Santana Top is an elevated everyday choice, complete with puff sleeves, a comfortable elasticated hem and an all-over blue-green checked pattern.
Ivory and Grey Checked Strappy Tie Back Dress
Glassworks
Ideal for summer days spent in the office, Glassworks' monochrome midi is a playful throw-on option to wear on repeat this season.
Missy Blouse
Peachy Den
Radiate 90s cool-girl vibes with Peachy Den's Missy Blouse. Featuring an asymmetric curved collar, a pale blue colourway and a pin-tucked waist, this nostalgia-infused gem is sweet and smart in equal measure.
Checked Plaid Strap Dress
Desigual
Say it loud and proud with Desigual's unmissable graphic slip. Not only does the statement piece champion the coveted underwear-as-outerwear trend, but it also acts as the chicest conversation starter thanks to its head-turning design and slinky cut.
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