FOR THE LOVE OF GINGHAM
We trace the evolution of this versatile fabric that has stood the test of time
Sartorially speaking, gingham withstood the warp and weft of fashion. Whether it’s our grandmother’s generation or new-age fashionistas, the transitionary weave has been a wardrobe staple, courtesy its ubiquitousness. And it’s safe to say that gingham is here to rule the world of fashion.
THE ORIGIN OF GINGHAM Gingham is a lightweight woven fabric made of cotton fibres, and has a reversible two-colour pattern. It originated in the 17th century, and was manufactured in Manchester, UK in the 18th century. It was originally a striped fabric, but evolved into a checked pattern. But, some claim this fabric was conceived in Guingamp, France.
The versatility and timelessness associated with gingham is real. French actor Brigitte Bardot’s pink gingham wedding dress by designer Jacques Esterel was a defining moment in fashion. Dorothy’s iconic blue and white gingham pinafore in The Wizard of Oz (1939) became a fashion heirloom, and the play of outsized silhouettes in Comme De Garcons’ S/S 1997 collection Body Meets Dress, Dress Meets Body, was remarkable.
Cut to the present day, top designers have incorporated the style in myriad ways. Carolina Herrera’s glamorous collection of gingham sequin dresses is a fashionista’s dream come true, while Prabal Gurung’s collection is all about sophisticated, chic outfits in monochromatic silhouettes, sustainable mini dresses, eco tulle draped skirts and seersucker gingham trucker shirts. Tory Burch’s gingham summer ensembles in a mixed colour palette speak of understated elegance, while Michael Kors’ collection of tea dresses and flowy skirts are effortlessly debonair. Off the runway, actors Reese Witherspoon and Alia Bhatt, among other celebrities, have been ardent admirers of gingham.
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STYLE IT RIGHT
Designer Nachiket Barve says, “Gingham works well with dresses, capris, denim shorts, etc. Primarily a cotton fabric, it can be worn in silk and chiffon variations, too. It is best paired with smart accessories like tan sandals or even espadrilles.”
Designer Anupamaa Dayal says she loves to experiment with gingham patterns. “You can wear gingham dresses, pants, crop tops and even a fun saree. It has a very rustic, romantic vibe of the ’50s and ’60s. The modern versions are bold and vibrant,” she adds.