Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer

Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer

      While the heatwave may have you reaching for a pair of lightweight broderie anglaise shorts or a dress with lace trim, the trendiest fashion enthusiasts are setting aside those typical summer styles for something with an autumnal flair. Checked patterns are making a comeback, from flannel shirts looped around the waists of chic slip dresses to gingham tops draping over denim shorts. Although plaid fabrics evoke images of falling leaves, steaming lattes, and reruns of Gilmore Girls, in the form of a thigh-skimming babydoll dress or peasant top, the urge for pumpkin spice season is cast aside. Indeed, those embracing the check print trend are not using it to evoke thoughts of chilly weather, cozy scarves, and hot water bottles. Instead, they adopt it in a lively and rebellious manner, perfectly suited for a season characterized by picnic blankets spread across lush parks and alfresco lunches featuring checkered tablecloths.

      The trend has a distinct '90s vibe, thanks to the fact that checked shirts were popular among style icons of that decade, such as Kurt Cobain, Claire Danes, and Winona Ryder. However, rather than channeling the grunge aesthetic of these celebrities, wearing checks this summer feels much more understated. This is largely because the check print trend has become a common motif, appearing in the lines of romantic and minimalist designers like The Row, Faithful, and Posse.

      You could argue that the Olsen Twins are spearheading this revival, having introduced their Spring 2025 collection with Italian supermodel Mariacarla Boscono, donning a checked button-down shirt paired with tailored black trousers and chunky toe-ring sandals. Additionally, Dôen, the California-based brand known for its nostalgic prints and ethereal shapes, has helped promote the checked summer trend with its Faye dress, a mini dress inspired by the '60s that has quickly become favored by fashion editors and influencers. There are many styles of check prints currently trending, providing fresh, contemporary interpretations of this timeless trend. From adorable bubble shorts to transitional funnel-neck jackets, here are the chicest ways to sport check prints this summer.

      ### The 5 Key Checked Fashion Trends for Summer 2026

      1. **Babydoll Dresses**

       **Style Notes:** Drop-waist dresses have lost their appeal, with babydoll silhouettes emerging as the dominant shape this season. From Olivia Rodrigo’s floral Generation78 style to Elsa Hosk’s version by Sandy Liang, these dresses are simple to style and comfortable to wear. However, the most sought-after option this season is undeniably the Faithfull Costa dress, featuring puffed sleeves and a blue hue inspired by Cadaqués in Spain, as modeled by influencer Hannah Allen.

       **Shop the Trend:**

       - **Faithfull: Costa Plaid Cotton Minidress**

       This relaxed silhouette is perfect for exploring European towns and then heading to the beach.

       - **DÔEN: Julia Gathered Checked Organic Cotton Midi Dress**

       This beautiful piece will help you dress for the summer activities you aspire to enjoy.

       - **BERNADETTE: Checked Seersucker Mini Dress**

       A sleeveless option that accentuates the shape, creating a trapeze style that can stand alone or complement denim.

       - **Damson Madder: Sabina Mini Godet Dress**

       Count on Damson Madder to stay ahead of the trend.

      2. **Balloon Shorts**

       **Style Notes:** Balloon shorts are gaining popularity, featuring exaggerated proportions and a bloomer-like shape, making them the latest version of the underwear-as-outerwear trend with hemlines resembling knickers. Yet, with a dreamy check pattern, they become the ideal option for casual outings, whether in urban environments or coastal hideaways.

       **Shop the Trend:**

       - **Faithfull: Mira Checked Cotton Shorts**

       A timeless addition to your wardrobe.

       - **Posse: Aurelia Gingham Cotton Shorts**

       Suitable for every occasion, from leisurely afternoons to busy mornings.

       - **ACNE STUDIOS: Pebby Checked Cotton Shorts**

       This trend affirms that shorts resembling knickers are the way to go.

       - **Helsa: Novelty Puff Shorts**

       Channel your urban prep look by pairing them with sheer socks and loafers, inspired by Harry Styles and Zoë Kravitz.

      3. **Grunge Shirting**

       **Style Notes:** The check shirt seems to have a resurgence every few years. A staple in casual wardrobes back in 1996 and 2016, it looks like this fashion essential is poised for a comeback. With its popularity spiking during winter thanks to a certain COS design, it's making waves again this summer as it features in collections from Toteme, Matteau, and Mango. This demonstrates the lasting appeal of the check print, sign

Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer

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Seen in Paris and London: The Print Trend Replacing Polka Dots This Summer

Forget about polka dots.