As far as I’m concerned, summer means two things: dresses and twirling. When I say twirling, I don’t actually mean twirling, just the essence of twirling — with a little bit of actual twirling sprinkled in. And when it comes to dresses meant for twirling, it’s gingham for the win.
Yes, florals are great, and blue stripes are classic, but gingham is the oft-underlooked spring-and-summer fabric that brings so much joy that you don’t even know how much joy it’s bringing. Gingham is basically the Giving Tree, and it’s time to finally appreciate its glory. And before you say anything, you’re not actually going to look like a toddler in Dorothy cosplay. I promise.
There are so many good gingham dresses out there for every activity, from formal events (even weddings!), farmer’s market runs and beach days to sweating in front of your struggling air conditioner on a hot garbage day. You’ve got your minis, you’ve got your midis, and, of course, your maxis. There are even a few midaxis out there.
If you’re ready to embrace the magical, twirling summer vibes, scroll below to shop the best gingham dresses for summer. Trust me: You’ll never want to take them off.
Best Gingham Dresses
1. ASOS DESIGN Curve Textured Gingham Wrap Minidress, $45
Nothing is more perfect for summer twirling than a gingham wrap dress. I mean, it’s a gingham wrap dress!
2. Lulus City Strolls Navy Blue Gingham Backless Twist-Front Midi Dress, $68
As the name suggests, this keyhole gingham midi dress is just lovely for city strolls.
3. French Connection Ezeke Poplin Midi Dress, $49.97 (Orig. $98)
The subtle ruffle straps and airy poplin fabric make this the perfect house dress, TBH.
4. Hill House Home The Matilda Dress, $175
Look, Hill House and sunshine are the perfect pair. This elegant dress is sleek and sophisticated enough for twirling at summer weddings — and chill enough to pair with white sneakers at brunch.
5. ASOS Neon Rose Plus Gingham Ruffle Tiered Midaxi Dress, $73
Turn yourself into a literal walking strawberry with this flowy gingham dress.
6. PRETTYGARDEN Casual Plaid Sleeveless Ruffle Sundress, $36.99 (Orig. $44.99)
Available in seven colors, this simple babydoll dress will be in style forever.
7. Charlie Holiday Lottie Gingham Linen & Cotton Maxi Dress, $49.97 (Orig. $194)
I can actually feel the salty ocean air right now just by looking at this dress. It’s absolutely perfect as a beach coverup.
8. Miss Selfridges Puff Sleeve Tiered Smock Dress in Textured Gingham, $48
All other pink gingham dresses can go home. We found the perfect one.
9. Reformation Tagliatelle Linen Dress, $248
Tagliatelle is a noodle meant to twirl, so it only makes sense that this gingham dress, aptly named after said noodle, must be on this list.
10. Hill House Home The Adeline Dress, $125
All you need to do is throw on this easy gingham, and suddenly, you have an Outfit™.
11. The Frolic Rubellite Woven Tie Detail Halter Midaxi Summer Dress, $59
There are so many fun elements to this black-and-white gingham halter dress, like the side cutouts and textured woven fabric.
12. Madewell Modular Halter Midi Dress in Gingham, $148
Don’t you love the strappy halter paired with the peekaboo keyhole here?
13. Porridge Gingham Midi Shirt Dress, $178
There’s something so wildly cool about this retro-inspired dress.
14. Patsy Black and White Gingham Off-the-Shoulder Dress, $60
If you’ve ever wanted to pretend you were sipping Aperol spritz on a yacht, this vacation-ready gingham maxi dress is your bestie. The dress is made with a lightweight woven fabric, so it literally feels like you’re wearing air.
If you liked this story, check out the best deals to shop at Nordstrom Rack right now.
Special Offer for You
Nordstrom's Designer Clearance is full of incredible deals
More from In The Know:
It's time to stop sleeping on the Sephora Collection
5 simple summer wardrobe essentials you can get for $50 or less at Nordstrom Rack
These 6 beauty gift sets will give you the most bang for your buck every single time
