The French-Girl Top Style You Should Embrace for a Timeless Look This Summer

      From the tablecloths at Italian trattorias emerges this season's most prevalent trend—gingham tops. Indeed, the checkerboard pattern has subtly made a comeback for 2025, infusing warm days with a touch of charm and elegance. In my view, there is no better way to mark the arrival of summer than by dressing in the print commonly associated with warm weather activities—lengthy picnics in London’s parks, outdoor lunches, enjoying Aperol Spritz, and wandering through tall wild grasses in prairie fields. “Gingham offers a delightful combination of nostalgia and freshness,” explains Morgane Sézalory, the founder of timelessly stylish Parisian brand Sézane. “After several years of bold, graphic patterns, I believe people are attracted to something that makes a statement while still appearing softer and more timeless,” she adds regarding its resurgence. “It feels familiar yet renewed, especially in unexpected colors or silhouettes. Honestly, I find there’s something quite uplifting about gingham. It instantly elevates your mood.”

      Are Gingham Tops Still in Fashion?

      Certainly, the classic print has consistently captivated those in the know. The chequered pattern's most notable moment was embodied in Dorothy Gale’s iconic blue and white apron dress from The Wizard of Oz. (And later, in Harry Styles’s custom Gucci interpretation of this look during a Halloween performance in 2021 as part of his Love On Tour.) Since the 1940s, it has quickly been adopted into the gamine uniform, with the quintessential representative, Audrey Hepburn, frequently seen in gingham capri pants, including off-duty moments in Rome while filming the adaptation of Leo Tolstoy's 1869 epic, War and Peace. Nowadays, however, the style has been embraced by discerning dressers looking to infuse their warm-weather ensembles with effortless charm. In 2023, Margot Robbie reignited its popularity with a custom pink and white Prada two-piece set during the early stages of the Barbie press tour.

      The piece paid homage to the Milanese brand’s spring/summer 2023 menswear collection, but the print wasn’t revisited by the renowned designer until Miu Miu’s recent autumn/winter 2025 collection, which showcased a variety of gingham trench coats and candy-colored skirts. As is often the case in fashion, where Miuccia Prada leads, the world follows. Recently, Alexa Chung donned a zip-up windbreaker jacket in the print, reminiscent of her vintage-inspired days. This association with the cottagecore aesthetic has contributed to gingham's struggle for mainstream popularity, giving it a somewhat costumey vibe. However, a recent reassessment by brands such as Dôen and Australian independent label Mode Mischief has shifted gingham tops away from provincial design elements, establishing them as a vital component of urban dressing.

      In place of whimsical collars or excessive frills, gingham has evolved to appear distinctly ‘cool,’ exemplified by a sculptural Maison Margiela ensemble worn by Cynthia Erivo in New York. (Her Wicked co-star, Ariana Grande, has also incorporated gingham into her promotional wardrobe as Glinda.)

      How to Style Gingham Tops

      Thus, while you may not be wearing it to evoke the aesthetics of your favorite rustic bistro or channel your inner vintage Hollywood starlet, some may still feel hesitant about gingham tops. However, Sézalory argues it shouldn’t be a concern. “Gingham is incredibly versatile—across seasons and styles,” she asserts. “You could even say gingham is seen as quintessentially French, so perhaps that benefits us too. Familiar with the print, Sézalory notes that “gingham introduces just the right dose of femininity and playfulness without ever feeling excessive.”

      “It’s an easy, understated way to incorporate a bit of color or pattern into your wardrobe. Most importantly, I believe getting dressed should bring joy. Gingham embodies that spirit.” Her styling advice? “Don't hesitate to mix prints—gingham complements florals, stripes, and even more daring patterns beautifully. It’s more adaptable than many realize.” She describes gingham tops as a signature print for the brand this season and recommends newcomers choose classic cuts. “Personally, I adore a square neckline—simple and clean, yet incredibly flattering,” she continues.

      “For a more laid-back look, a tie-front shirt in gingham is ideal for a casual summer day. Gingham adds personality, while the cut retains elegance. It's about finding that balance between charm and structure.” This balance is something styles from Reformation, Posse, and Nobody’s Child have all accomplished.

      Yet, as Sézalory reminds me, chic gingham tops are not just found in the storefronts of high-street favorites and designer boutiques. “You’ll see it all across Paris, too. It feels very modern, yet also completely timeless. That’s the magic, right?” Ready to experience the