Summer Checks 

Picnic-chic is the look for the summer, and we’re ready to swap athleisure wear for gingham prints, strappy sandals and the iconic woven basket bag.

Worn by celebrities such as Holly Willoughby and Sienna Miller, the checkered print is a timeless classic. Long lazy days in the sun, sipping on cold bubbly is the perfect occasion to pull out your favourite gingham dress (along with the gingham picnic blanket and napkins, of course!) and if a full-blown checkered maxi is too much, try accessorizing with a gingham blouse instead.

The cheerful picnic-plaid makes for a chic and casual ensemble that will be perfect in any setting, from strolls in the park to alfresco drinks in town. 

Stuck on how to accessorise? Look no further! Whether you’re in the market for an oversized tote or a compact basket, woven bags are a simple way to accentuate any outfit. A trendy rattan crossbody looks great contrasted with bright colours, giving you a catwalk-inspired look on a budget. 

If you need some style inspiration on what to wear for park-bench banquets, take a look at our favourite finds for SS21. 

1. Monsoon Green Gingham Check Dress €80, visit littlewoodsireland.ie

This Monsoon dress is a great way to introduce check to your wardrobe. A perfect shade for summer, this flirty midi will look on-trend no matter the occasion. 

2. Check High Neck Dress €90, visit coastfashion.com

Dusty pink shades look great with crisp white trainers, and this dress from Coast will be no exception. The long-sleeve is a great option for those cooler summer days. 

3. Blue Check Tie Strap Tiered Maxi Dress €46, visit next.ie

Maxi dresses and summer go hand in hand which is why this dress from Next is such a warm-weather favourite. 

4. Victoria Beckham Check Bow-Detail Top €290, visit international.victoriabeckham.com

Adding a splash of gingham to your outfit is just as powerful as wearing it head-to-toe. This blouse has a bold orange and white check that is made for summer. 

5. Yellow Gingham Check Jumpsuit €59, visit roman.co.uk

This on-trend one-piece will effortlessly take you from day to night. 

6. Gingham Trousers €29.95, visit zara.com

Taking inspo from Lady Di’s iconic wardrobe, these gingham trousers from Zara come in a range of colours that are perfect for summer. 

7. Twisted Straps Basket Bag €79.99, visit shop.mango.com

For days when you need to bring everything but the kitchen sink, this oversized woven tote will carry all of the essentials. 

8. Arizona Birko-Flor Sandals €60, visit birkenstock.com

Birkenstocks are the quintessential sandal. A great staple for your shoe collection, they will look great with any outfit. 

Stella McCartney Raffia Shoulder Bag €595, visit net-a-porter.com

New season, new bag. Right? It may be a splurge, but this Stella McCartney shoulder bag will be a lasting investment piece. 

Dustiin Yellow Rattan Basket Bag €100, visit dunelondon.com

This bag embodies the term, ‘bohemian’. The pop of yellow is a stylish accent that brings this classic rattan bag to the next level. 

M&S Collection Pure Cotton Denim Jacket €49, visit marksandspencer.ie 

A great choice for gentle layering, this light denim jacket will keep the summer evening chill at bay.

Nymph Amethyst Sterling Silver Chainmail Earrings €198, visit naiiad.com 

Designed by french jewellery designer Laetitia Sorohan, these amethyst earrings are a unique statement piece to add to your collection. 

Northstar Needlework Handmade blue gingham knotted top hairband €16.25, visit andsotoshop.com