This pretty print is taking over our kitchens this spring – here is what you need to buy

Bringing a fresh, spring-ready feel to everyday cooking and dining, pastel-hued gingham is popping up everywhere. From checkerboard to patterned table linens and kitchen storage, this cheerful trend taps into nostalgia while still feeling modern. We’re channelling the aesthetics of vintage picnic blankets, retro diners and sunlit kitchens filled with candy-coloured tableware.

Whether you're hosting brunch with friends or simply refreshing your kitchen accessories for the new season, here are some of our favourite pieces for embracing the gingham trend in your home.

Jump to:

• Why is gingham kitchenware trending?
• How do you style gingham kitchenware?
• Is gingham suitable for modern kitchens?
• What are the easiest ways to add in pastel kitchenware?

Anthropologie handpainted plaid stoneware dinner plate

• Available from Anthropologie (£22)

Anthropologie is known for colourful tableware and this handpainted plaid plate fits perfectly into the pastel kitchenware trend. Made from durable stoneware, the plate features a softly brushed plaid pattern that feels relaxed rather than overly uniform, giving it that slightly handmade look that works beautifully for casual dining.

The pastel colour palette makes it a lovely choice for spring tablescaping – perfect for serving pastries at brunch, a slice of cake in the afternoon or a colourful salad at lunch. It also pairs well with plain white crockery if you prefer a more understated setting.

Available from:
Anthropologie (£22)

Rockett St George checkerboard storage tins

• Available from Next (£60)

If you love a kitchen that feels full of personality, these checkerboard storage tins from Rockett St George are a fun way to introduce the trend. The graphic check pattern taps into the retro aesthetic that’s currently everywhere in interiors, and the pink and orange colourway gives the classic print a modern twist.

The set includes three tins in different sizes, making them ideal for storing tea, coffee, sugar or baking ingredients. They look particularly striking styled together on open shelving where the bold pattern can really stand out.

Available from:
Next (£60)

Dunelm check chopping board

• Available from Dunelm (£10)

Even the most practical kitchen tools can join in with the gingham trend. This colourful chopping board from Dunelm features a check design that adds a decorative element to your worktop while still being functional.

Made from recycled plastic, it’s lightweight yet durable enough for everyday food prep. The generous size makes it perfect for chopping vegetables, slicing bread or preparing ingredients for dinner, and the bold check pattern means it can double up as a casual serving board for cheese or snacks.

Available from:
Dunelm (£10)

Oliver Bonas pink gingham ceramic plant pot

• Available from Oliver Bonas (£37.50)

Bring the gingham trend beyond tableware with this charming ceramic plant pot from Oliver Bonas. The pink checked design adds a soft decorative touch that works beautifully on kitchen windowsills or open shelving.

Fill it with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley for a practical addition to your kitchen that you’ll reach for every time you cook.

Available from:
Oliver Bonas (£37.50)

Addison Ross sage gingham square pillar salt or pepper mill

• Available from Addison Ross (£58)

Addison Ross is known for beautifully designed home accessories and this gingham salt or pepper mill is a charming example. We love the soft sage green shade (but there are a range of gingham colourways to choose from, plus even a couple of tartan options), while the classic gingham pattern adds a twist to a traditional table staple.

Its square pillar shape gives it a slightly sculptural feel, making it a stylish addition to both your dining table and kitchen worktop. Check out our full tried-and-tested review of the best pepper grinders for more.

Available from:
Addison Ross (£58)

La Redoute Intérieurs Kael checked earthenware jug

• Available from La Redoute (£37.99)

A stylish jug is a versatile kitchen essential, and this checked earthenware design from La Redoute brings a relaxed rustic feel to the table. The soft check pattern keeps it in line with the gingham trend while still feeling timeless.

Use it for serving water, juice or homemade lemonade, or style it as a vase for fresh flowers or herbs picked from the garden.

Available from:
La Redoute (£37.99)

MeanWhile gingham check mug in ginger

• Available from Lisa Angel (£13)

This gingham mug from MeanWhile combines a classic check pattern with a warm orange and red tones. The design has a nostalgic 1970s feel, reminiscent of retro kitchenware and vintage picnic fabrics.

Perfect for tea, coffee or hot chocolate, it’s the sort of mug that instantly brightens your morning routine and looks especially lovely paired with pastel plates and table linens.

Available from:
Lisa Angel (£13)

Piglet in Bed berry gingham linen blend tablecloth

• Available from Piglet in Bed (from £89)

A tablecloth is the easiest way to elevate your tablescape if you’re entertaining. This berry-toned option from Piglet in Bed is made from a soft linen blend that drapes beautifully across the table while still maintaining a relaxed, casual feel. Perfect for weekend brunch, spring lunches or relaxed dinners with friends.

Available from:
Piglet in Bed (from £89)

Anthropologie Brynn gingham placemat

• Available from Anthropologie (£16)

If you want to gently introduce the trend without committing to a full tablecloth, gingham placemats are an easy option. The Brynn placemat from Anthropologie comes in four pastel shades so you can mix and match a selection or commit to one look – we love the sweet bow detailing on each corner as well.

Available from:
Anthropologie (£16)

Dunelm set of two checkerboard tea towels

• Available from Dunelm (£6)

Tea towels are one of the easiest ways to bring colour and pattern into your kitchen and refresh your space as the seasons change. This set from Dunelm features a cheerful checkerboard design that feels bright and modern.

Practical for drying dishes or lining bread baskets, they also look great simply draped over the oven handle for a quick kitchen refresh.

Available from:
Dunelm (£6)

Cox & Cox Cotton gingham runner

• Available from Cox & Cox (£25)

For a more subtle take on the trend, this gingham table runner from Cox & Cox offers a softer colour palette while still embracing the classic check pattern.

Made from cotton, it runs neatly along the centre of the table and works beautifully layered over wooden surfaces, creating a relaxed yet elegant dining setup.

Available from:
Cox & Cox (£25)

&Klevering plaid butter dish

• Available from Not Another Bill (£35)

Small details can make a big difference in a kitchen, and this butter dish from &Klevering adds a pop of colour to your countertop or breakfast table. The plaid pattern gives it a cheerful look while the stoneware design keeps it practical for everyday use.

It’s perfect for keeping butter fresh while adding a decorative touch to your morning breakfast routine.

Available from:
Not Another Bill (£35)

Oliver Bonas pizza club chequerboard oven gloves

• Available from Oliver Bonas (£22.50)

Your next pizza night just got a makeover with these playful Oliver Bonas oven gloves. The bold orange and white checked print makes a change from the pale pastel shades often found in gingham kitchenware.

The graphic pattern gives them a fun retro feel while the padded cotton construction means that they’re practical for handling hot trays and dishes. There is a matching apron and tea towel in the range too, if you want to really commit to the theme...

Available from:
Oliver Bonas (£22.50)

The Best Room stoneware gingham mug

• Available from Not On The High Street (£17.95)

This stoneware mug from The Best Room combines a sturdy feel with a simple gingham pattern that captures the cosy charm of the trend. Its classic design makes it ideal for everyday use, whether you're starting the day with coffee or winding down with tea in the evening.

The subtle check pattern pairs easily with other pastel kitchenware, making it a versatile addition to your mug collection.

Available from:
Not On The High Street (£17.95)

Why is gingham kitchenware trending?

Gingham and checkerboard prints are having a resurgence in interiors thanks to their nostalgic, retro feel. The pattern is strongly associated with picnic blankets for relaxed summer feasting, vintage tablecloths (think retro 50s designs) and classic country kitchens, making it a natural fit for relaxed, welcoming kitchen spaces.

Designers and homeware brands are reinterpreting gingham in fresh colourways, from soft sage green and berry tones to fresh pink and orange combinations.

How do you style gingham kitchenware?

The easiest way to style gingham kitchenware is to mix it with simple, neutral pieces. Pair checked plates or mugs with plain white crockery to keep the look balanced.

Gingham also works well layered with natural textures such as linen tablecloths, wooden serving boards and ceramic jugs. For a more playful look, combine different pastel shades or mix gingham with subtle stripes.

Is gingham suitable for modern kitchens?

Yes. While gingham has traditional roots, many modern homeware brands are reinterpreting the pattern in contemporary colour palettes and materials.

Subtle gingham pieces like placemats, mugs or table runners can add character to a modern kitchen without making the space feel overly rustic. Choosing gingham items in modern colourways instead of soft pastels also updates the trend – think clashing pink and red together, or the bold orange and white oven gloves above.

What are the easiest ways to add in pastel kitchenware?

If you want to try the trend without replacing larger items in your kitchen, start with smaller accessories such as:

• mugs or plates
• tea towels
• salt and pepper mills
• table linens
• storage tins

These pieces are affordable, easy to swap seasonally and can quickly bring colour and pattern into the kitchen.