Gingham Doesn't Just Belong on Your Tablecloth This Holiday Season

This holiday standby transforms any room of the house into a cozy Christmas wonderland.

When it comes to holiday decor, finding festive patterns and fabrics play a main role in executing your vision. Prints like plaid and stripes are consistently popular choices, but this year, a classic is back: It's time to get into gingham.

This beloved pattern is a sweet and subtle twist on the traditional checkered pattern that complements so many different decor styles—and not just at Christmastime. It takes any cottagecore celebration to the next level, so you don't have to worry about your gingham pieces ending up in a storage closet for most of the year.

Here’s everything you need to know about this trending print, and how to use it in your home this holiday season.

Related: 7 Most Popular Christmas Color Schemes of 2023

What is Gingham?

Gingham fabric is made from cotton and features a uniform checkered pattern of white and another color, usually red, blue, yellow, or beige. However, any color can be paired with white and be considered gingham. The pattern is usually smaller than traditional plaid, though it can come in any size.

You'll find this fabric featured most commonly on tablecloths and dresses, and it began trending in the 1950s and '60s—think of Dorothy’s iconic blue dress in The Wizard of Oz, or even Barbie’s pink dress in the hit 2023 film).

Gingham vs. Plaid: What’s the Difference?

Gingham and plaid are both checked patterns, but they can be distinguished in a few key ways. Plaid contains varying sizes of vertical and horizontal lines, while gingham is uniform, with the same sized lines throughout. Plus, gingham always features white with one other color such as blue or red, while plaid is not limited to any colors and usually contains more than two different hues.

One exception is buffalo plaid, which looks very similar to gingham. Buffalo plaid features the same uniform checked pattern but can be distinguished by its red and black colors (or occasionally white and black). The print is also typically larger than gingham.

Related: 6 Designer Tips for Decorating with Plaid

Why is Gingham Trending?

Gingham has a long history of going in and out of style—so why is it back now? It's seen a resurgence in the fashion world, so it’s only natural that it’s making its way into your interior decor too. With the increasing popularity of interior decorating trends like quiet luxury that emphasize elegance and sophistication, this timeless print fits right in.

“Mellow patterns are having a moment because they are simplified, and give many of us peace as we rebuild after a hectic few years,” says Heather Mastrangeli, an interior designer with Innovatus Design based in Downer’s Grove, Illinois. “Many homeowners prefer subtle patterns and gingham offers this. The pattern is much more simplified than plaid and gives the eye space to rest."

Ways to Use Gingham in Your Holiday Decorating

You can implement gingham fabric into your holiday decor in so many different ways. Here are a few expert-approved ideas to use the festive pattern in your space.

Play with Ribbons

One almost effortless way to add gingham to your holiday setup is to grab some gingham-print ribbons and mix them in with your holiday greenery, says Kristin Kong of K Kong Designs. Garlands, wreaths, planters, and even the Christmas tree can be dressed up using ribbon for some subtle holiday flair. This technique also fits with the coquette trend taking over this season.

Related: Gen Z Is Wrapping Their Christmas Trees Up In Delicate Bows This Year

Opt for Gingham Stockings and Tree Skirts

Swap out your usual stockings and tree skirt for a fresh new pattern—a detail that won't go unnoticed.

“Personalize them, hang them up, and create a holiday focal point,” says Debbie Travin, founder and principal designer of DLT Interiors. Gingham fabric in red and white, beige and white, or green and white make for particularly festive options.

Related: Christmas Tree Skirt Ideas

Switch Up Your Throw Pillows and Blankets

Perhaps the simplest way to spruce up your space for the holidays is to refresh your throw pillows and blankets with gingham. Layer a few pillows along with solid colors and neutral tones to create balance, Travin says.

Dress Up Your Table

When it comes to gingham, you can't forget about your dining room table. Dining tables are often a main focus of holiday hosting, and they should be dressed accordingly.

Consider a gingham table runner, a classic gingham tablecloth, gingham placemats, or gingham napkins for a more subtle look, says Travin. Finish off the space with a festive centerpiece and dinnerware for a holiday tablescape that leaves your guests drooling.

For more Better Homes & Gardens news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Better Homes & Gardens.