Kate Middleton just proved the gingham midi is this summer’s perfect dress – get the look for £35 at M&S
The gingham dress is having a major moment – alongside this season’s polka dot pieces, it has completely overtaken once-ubiquitous florals as the print of the summer. Yes, it feels like gingham dresses are everywhere right now, from higher-end brands to the high street –and many of our ultimate style icons have been pictured in easy, breezy checked pieces recently (see Sienna Miller’s recent appearance in cool-girl brand Debute’s mini dress).
While chocolate brown styles are really trending, classic black and white iterations will always have a place in our summer capsule wardrobes – and the Princess of Wales herself has just reminded us how versatile and effortlessly polished a monochrome gingham sundress can be.
Kate was pictured for a day out at the polo on Friday (10 July), where she watched husband Prince William play in the DMMI Royal Charity Polo Cup 2026 at the Guards Polo Club in Windsor, before going on to present the prizes.
Max Mumby/Indigo//Getty Images
For her relaxed day out in the sunshine, Kate opted for a black and white checked, sleeveless midi dress, thought to be from one of her go-to labels, Temperley London. With its flowing skirt, and pretty bow detail tie at the waist, it was a flattering and effortlessly chic choice, which showed off the Princess’ sun-kissed skin to perfection.
She paired the dress with on-trend, neutral kitten heels and statement earrings, with her hair down in her signature loosely blow-dried waves.
Inspired to add a new gingham midi to your repertoire for the weeks ahead? Same here. It’s the kind of piece you can easily dress up or down, whether you’re heading to a smarter summer event like Kate, or simply stepping out for a relaxed BBQ with friends.
Luckily, the high street is full of black and white gingham midi dresses right now, and we have our eyes on M&S’ super affordable £35 option, which looks far more expensive than its price tag would suggest – get it before it goes…
M&S Cotton Blend Gingham Dropped Waist Midi Dress, £35 SHOP NOW
