Gingham Tableware — Designers Say This 'Outdated' Pattern' Is Making a Comeback

Gingham feels so nostalgic, conjuring up memories of sun-soaked picnics and cozy visits to grandma's. Turns out, she had good taste, and the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. This playful pattern is now finding its way back on our dining tables this season, just in time for spring. 

Despite being labeled ‘old-fashioned’ by some, the truth is that the interior design favorite never really lost its charm. From Dorothy's iconic dress in The Wizard of Oz to today, ‘There is a gingham pattern for every season,’ making the print a perennially perfect choice, says interior designer Nicole Cullum. ‘Each season sees a new fresh take on color combinations and variations of this timeless pattern,’ though the designer admits that pattern shines the brightest during the spring and summer. Since that time of year is already upon us, our eyes are on warm tone browns and ‘a range of soft pastel colors of pinks, grass greens, and sky blues.’ 

From humble tablecloths to chic table settings, gingham has come a long way. Grandma knew what she was doing with this versatile fabric, and now it's stealing the spotlight in modern interiors. Get ready to jazz up your dining table with the timeless pattern — from cutlery to coasters, you’ve never seen gingham done quite like this. 

Gingham Napkins

Gingham Plates

Gingham Placemats

More Gingham Tableware

How should I style gingham?

Patterns occassinally pose a challenge. With so much going on visually, how do you ensure your tablescape stays in balance?

Well, according to Nicole, gingham is surprisingly forgiving. 'Gingham works because it has a simple structure that you can easily layer other patterns on top of without clashing,’ she explains. Still, she advises being intentional about its placement. ‘Place a gingham tablecloth as a base underneath complimentary colored flatware,’ she suggests. 'Use simple chargers like a brass, or rattan under your plates to create a place for your eye to rest between pattern combinations.’

Don't feel pressured to commit fully to a gingham tablecloth if it doesn't suit your style. You can use the pattern ‘as a colorful accent with your napkins,’ says Nicole. And while you may be tempted to purchase everything on this list (trust me, I am too), Nicole recommends selecting one or two favorite gingham items to focus on, then building the rest of your tablescape from there. ‘The point is that too much of a good thing can make your table look kitschy or worse, cutesie. Use gingham in one element of the table, instead of placing it everywhere,’ she advises.

If you’re loving patterns as we are, don't miss our edit of patterned accent chairs — the perfect complement to your new table decor.