Gingham is trending again, but what is this fashion trend all about?

Gingham is a form of lightweight cotton-blended fabric featuring check or plaid striped patterns, which has evolved over the years. The plain strip gingham was the original design, and the check patterning came into action later. It is distinctive and appealing because the background traditionally remains white, and the patterns are usually coloured. The most classic gingham is the red and white or blue and white combinations, which have become the epitome of summer fashion.

No one quite really knows from where the original word came from, but some claim that it was first used by Dutch people living in Holland. However, other sources say that the first manufacturer of gingham was in Malaysia, and it is a Malay word that means separate or ajar, but this does not fit with the fabric’s look. But, interestingly, in Cambodia, gingham is used to make their national attire, called Krama. However, in Indonesia, the colour combination of white and red or blue is seen as a symbol of the battle between good and bad. Some historical textile books also suggest that the fabric was also hugely exported from India back in the day, specifically from Bengal and Coromandel areas.

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Gingham fabric first rose to popularity at the end of the 1940s war era, as the fabric was very cheap and durable, making it a perfect choice for middle-class families to update their outfit collection. Then came the popular poet and songwriter era, who started models wearing gingham fabric, which soon became a famous textile in the world of fashion, making it history.

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Gingham fabric is made from a pure cotton blend, making it easy to take care of. You can simply pop it in the washing machine or in a warm-cool cycle, but if you choose a gentle cycle, there will be fewer wrinkles during the drying process. But ensure that you use a bleach-free detergent that will not damage the pattern. To make the garment look crisp and lovely, you should always iron it gently and then style it.

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Earlier, people used to only create simple flared skirts or blouses, but eventually it became a popular summer uniform, with women carving out scarves, dresses, and handkerchiefs in vibrant hues for the spring. Many fashion labels like Celine, Miu Miu, and others introduced the fabric in their collections, which soon became a rage amongst Gen Z. But, till date, you can find gingham fabric being used in curtains, tablecloths, bedsheets, and other upholstery fabrics.

(Image Credits: Pinterest)

(Image Credits: Pinterest)