Styles: Check It Out

IT'S HIP TO BE SQUARE this summer, since gingham, the print of picnics and pinafores, has jumped off the table and onto store shelves everywhere. And now the fabric makes its graphic statement not only on goofy golf horts and toddlers' rompers, but also on grown-up styles — breezy sundresses, edgy bags, even sky-high wedges.

The key to keeping all its Southern charm from making you look like a farm girl? Pair patterned pieces with crisp white or denim, but avoid mixing with other prints. Otherwise, people will be check-ing you out for the wrong reasons.

Here, Ashley wears a chiffon blouse from Betsey Johnson ($130, Tysons Galleria; 703-442-3940).

» TO FIND the check mate for you, click here.

Written by Express contributor Ashley Joy Parker
Hair and makeup, Victoria Stiles, T.H.E. Artist Agency
Model, T.H.E. Artist Agency
Photos by Marge Ely/Express