Whilst the heatwave will have you clambering for a pair of delicate broderie anglaise shorts or a lace-trimmed dress, the most stylish dressers around are ditching these quintessential summer motifs for something a little more autumnal. Indeed, checked prints are on the rise, be it the flannel shirts tied around the waists of sensual slip dresses or gingham blouses that cascade over a pair of denim shorts. Plaid fabrics might be synonymous with falling brown leaves, piping hot lattes and rewatches of Gilmore Girls, but when rendered into a thigh-grazing babydoll dress or peasant top, any inclination for pumpkin spice season goes at the window.
Indeed, adopters of the check fashion trend aren’t wearing it in a way that’s pining for the blistering chill, cosy scarves and hot water bottles. Instead, they’re wearing it in a way that feels subversive and vibrant, especially during a time of year defined by picnic blankets strewn over verdant parkland and the checkerboard tablecloths of alfresco lunches.
There’s something quite ‘90s about the trend, courtesy of the fact that checked shirts were a staple in the wardrobes of fashion icons from the decade like Kurt Cobain, Claire Danes and Winona Ryder. However, rather than the more grunge inclinations of these members of the celebrity style set, wearing checks this summer feels far more minimal. This is down to the fact that the check print trend has become such a ubiquitous motif, cropping up in the collections of romantic and understated designers like The Row, Faithful and Posse.
You could even argue that the Olsen Twins are at the helm of this revival, with the duo opening its Spring 2025 collection with Italian supermodel, Mariacarla Boscono, wearing a checked button-down with tailored black trousers and chunky toe-ring sandals. Elsewhere, Dôen, the California-based brand beloved for its use of nostalgic prints and ethereal silhouettes, have helped push the checked summer agenda with its Faye dress, a ‘60s-inspired throw-on mini adored by fashion editors and trend setters.
Still, there are countless check print styles that are currently trending, offering fresh and contemporary takes on the perennial trend. From the saccharine bubble shorts to the transeasonal funnel-neck jacket, scroll on for the chicest ways to wear check prints this summer.
The 5 Key Checked Fashion Trends for Summer 2026
1. Babydoll Dresses
Style Notes: Drop-waist dresses have officially dropped out of the conversation, with the most prevailing dress shape this season arguably the babydoll variety. From Olivia Rodrigo’s floral-adorned Generation78 style to Elsa Hosk’s Sandy Liang version, this silhouette is easy to style and breezy to wear. However, this season, the most covetable option does have to go to the Faithfull Costa dress, which is a style with puffed sleeves and a blue shade that’s inspired by Cadaqués in Spain, as seen here in Cincinnati-cum-Nashville based influencer Hannah Allen.
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This languid shape is perfect for days wandering around the old towns of European cities before heading for a dip by the beach.
It's often said you should dress for the job you want, not the job you have. But with this pretty style, you'll be dressing for the summer activity you want, not the one you're actually doing.
A sleeveless option exaggerates the shape further, resulting in an almost trapeze style that stands alone as it is or pairs perfectly with denim.
Trust Damson Madder to already be hot on the trend.
2. Balloon Shorts
Style Notes: Another check trend that’s bubbling up is balloon shorts. With inflated proportions and a slight bloomer shape, this cropped style is the latest iteration of the underwear-as-outerwear trend, with the hemline equivalent to the length of knickers. Still, when designed with a dreamy check print, they feel like the perfect thing to throw on and go, be it in city settings or coastal alcoves.
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The definition of a trusted wardrobe faithful.
From casual afternoons to bustling mornings, this pair will see you through every occasion.
As this trend proves, wearing a pair of shorts that resemble a pair of knickers is simply the way to go.
Evoke your inner urban prep by pairing it with sheer socks a loafers à la Harry Styles and Zoë Kravitz.
3. Grunge Shirting
Style Notes: It feels like every few years the check shirt has a revival. A mainstay in off-duty wardrobes in both 1996 and 2016, fast forward a decade and it appears this wardrobe staple is ready for a revival. Last winter, this style went viral thanks to a certain COS version. This summer, it’s gaining intrigue once again, appearing in the collections of Toteme, Matteau and Mango. Not only is this proof of the checked print’s constant appeal, but also evident that investing in the right style will have you reaching for it year-round, even if you are simply tying it around your waist or slinging it over your shoulders as an accessory layer.
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Despite this looking so thick and durable, it's actually incredibly breathable.
A lightweight options for slower-paced days.
The use of colours in this shirt is simply so captivating.
A true classic.
4. Awkward-Length Skirts
Style Notes: Don’t let the name fool you. A skirt that falls just below the knee, which has always commonly been referred to as an awkward length, is one of the most covetable styles of the season. Languidly skimming the area between your ankle and your calf, this in-between shape is an essential look for both Hailey Bieber and Matthieu Blazy. Still, don’t think that wearing a checked skirt is equivalent to wearing a tartan kilt. Ditch the pleats and opt for a more streamlined and pencil style that evokes a Parisian sensibility.
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Transseasonal and so chic.
A style women in their 20s, 30s, 40s and 50s will enjoy.
This piece strikes the perfect balance between high summer and pre autumn.
The brand is usually known for its florals, but this piece proves why stripes and checks are always a safe bet, too.
5. Funnel-Neck Jackets
Style Notes: The long days, blue skies and scorching temperatures currently gracing us are set to end. But don’t fret. Enjoy them while they last, whilst still preparing for the season about to be upon us with a polished funnel-neck jacket. Most commonly seen in suede and leather styles, this shape has become one of the most sought-after styles for cooler moments. However, for days when the weather turns and all you want to do is stay at home to watch The Celebrity Traitors, you’ll already be set.
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I've already seen so many people strolling through the streets of Chelsea and South Kensington wearing this exact look.
Sherlock Holmes, chic.
The higher the neckline, the more sophisticated the jacket.
This grid-style check is proof that fashion is cyclical given how popular this print was