At Piglet in Bed, our love for gingham knows no bounds. Whether it’s bedding, tablecloths, pyjamas curtains, bed skirts or wallpaper – we can’t get enough of this timeless pattern. From its humble beginnings as a practical textile to its iconic role in fashion and interior design, gingham has charmed generations with its classic, versatile appeal. So join us on a little trip through the history of gingham, and discover why this beloved pattern has a special way of making us feel right at home.
The Early Days of Gingham
Gingham’s story dates back to the 17th century, though not as the checkered pattern we know and love today. Originally, it was a striped fabric brought to Europe from Southeast Asia. The origin of the name ‘gingham’ is a bit of a mystery – some believe it comes from the Malay word ‘genggang’ meaning ‘striped’, others think it was named after the town of Guingamp in Brittany where the fabric was once produced, and some speculate it comes from the Dutch word ‘ginghang’.
Names aside, once gingham made its way to Europe, it quickly evolved into the familiar pattern we now recognise. By the mid-18th century, British mills in Manchester started weaving gingham with its signature checks. Made from cotton or linen, gingham was valued for its breathability and durability – two qualities that made it perfect for everyday use.
A Household Staple
Gingham’s mix of practicality and charm quickly earned it a spot in homes across Europe and America, adorning everything from aprons to tablecloths. In Britain, it became synonymous with rural life, often seen in shades of blue, red and green. In America, local mills embraced the pattern, making it the preferred choice of pioneers and farmers thanks to its affordability and durability.
Gingham’s popularity also spread to France, where it became known as ‘Vichy’, named after the town famous for producing it. French and Spanish homes welcomed the fabric for its rustic charm, incorporating it into curtains, napkins and upholstery. By the late 19th century, checked gingham had completely overtaken its striped predecessor, becoming a symbol of homely, wholesome country style.
From Farmhouse to High Fashion
In the 20th century, gingham took a glamorous turn, after it gained iconic status with Dorothy’s blue and white gingham pinafore in The Wizard of Oz. Hollywood stars like Katharine Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe brought gingham into mainstream fashion, while Brigitte Bardot’s pink gingham wedding dress cemented the pattern as both playful and elegant.
The leap from humble household fabric to high fashion marked a pivotal moment. Gingham symbolized a blend of comfort and style, and the simple pattern was embraced by designers and consumers alike.
Gingham and the Modern Home
Fast forward to today, and gingham is more versatile than ever. Far from just being a staple for country homes (though it’s still perfect for that cozy cottagecore aesthetic), gingham beautifully bridges the gap between traditional and contemporary design. Its iconic pattern brings a sense of nostalgia and comfort while still feeling fresh and modern – it fits into everything from minimalist Scandinavian spaces to eclectic bohemian interiors.
Designers are constantly finding new ways to play with gingham, experimenting with scale, color, and texture to keep things exciting. Our recent Emsworth Plaid is just one example! Gingham is also ideal for mixing and matching: combine it with florals or stripes for a fun, playful look, or layer it with different textures to create a warm, inviting space.
When we first launched our gingham bedding collection, it was a huge hit, sparking a gingham renaissance that shows no signs of slowing down. What’s made this pattern so enduring? Gingham’s simplicity – it’s a fabric that truly stands the test of time. So whether in your home or wardrobe, gingham is here to stay – because when something works this well, why mess with perfection?
