Spring 2025 is ushering in a fresh take on a timeless classic: checks. This perennial print, with its myriad incarnations from gingham to tweed to tartan, is as reliable as it is ripe for reinvention. It’s no surprise that checks have long been a sartorial staple for the British Royal Family, particularly the Princess of Wales, who recently donned a bespoke burgundy tartan coat by Blazé Milano during a visit to the Royal Marsden Hospital in London.
But checks aren’t just for royalty. The print’s laid-back charm has captivated style icons like actress Katie Holmes, who frequently embraces flannel shirts and shackets for a sophisticated nod to grunge. In womenswear, the checked shirt has enjoyed a resurgence since Kate Moss stole the show at Bottega Veneta’s Spring/Summer 2023 presentation in a blue-and-white plaid ensemble. This look reappeared in the brand’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection, reimagined with playful, exaggerated proportions.
British brand With Nothing Underneath has seen its checked shirts become bestsellers since their launch in 2020, with sales currently up 108% year-on-year. Founder Pip Durell, a longtime devotee of the print, explains its enduring appeal: “I love the nostalgia they bring to your look. Wearing them feels familiar and comforting, bringing country references back into the city, whether styled casually over a roll-neck or under our tailored wool blazer.”
The Newest Way to Wear Checks
This season, checks are taking on a surprising new form, inspired by the romantic, flowing silhouettes seen on the catwalk at SS Daley, one of British fashion’s most exciting emerging talents. These fluid shapes have trickled down to the high street, appearing in elegant skirts and dresses at retailers like Massimo Dutti and Cos. Perfect for transitioning from winter to spring, these pieces can be styled with tights, boots, and a cozy knit for cooler days, offering a refreshing alternative to florals as the weather warms.
Mixing Prints with Confidence
For the bold, another styling trick is to pair checks with other prints. Acne Studios’ Spring/Summer 2025 collection showcased this trend with aplomb, layering plaid with polka dots and snake prints in playful, sculptural designs. The Stockholm-based brand has also made oversized check scarves in luminous colorways a signature accessory, injecting a dopamine boost into minimalist, Scandi-inspired wardrobes.
A Subtle Approach
For those hesitant to fully embrace the check trend, a more understated option lies in the classic tartan scarf. This timeless accessory, often spotted on the Princess of Wales, offers an effortless way to incorporate checks into your wardrobe without overwhelming your look.
Why Checks Are the New Florals
While florals have long been synonymous with spring, checks are stepping into the spotlight for 2025. Their versatility, nostalgic charm, and ability to be dressed up or down make them a compelling choice for the season. Whether you opt for a flowing checked dress, a layered plaid ensemble, or a simple tartan scarf, this print promises to add depth and character to your spring wardrobe.
So, this spring, forget florals and embrace the check revival. With its rich history and modern reinventions, this timeless pattern is the perfect way to refresh your style for the new season.
