Square Neck Gingham Dress in Black

Gingham in black is a quietly clever idea. It keeps the charm of a check but drops the picnic association entirely, so this dress reads grown up rather than sweet. The square neckline frames the collarbone, and pleating through the skirt gives it movement that a flat panel never would.

The fabric is 95% Polyester, 5% Spandex, listed as no stretch, and the body is not lined. Seam detail shapes the bodice, so the fit comes from the construction rather than from the fabric giving way. Sizes run S to 2XL, with length from 51.6 in at S through 53.1 in at 2XL, bust from 33.1 in to 41.7 in and waist from 28.3 in to 37 in. This is a long dress, so please use the measurements in the table below rather than guessing, especially as there is no stretch to fall back on.

Because the colour is black and the pattern is small, it goes almost anywhere. Flat sandals and a straw bag by day, a heeled sandal and gold hoops by evening, or trainers and a denim jacket if you want to knock the formality out of it. A tan belt at the waist sharpens the shape if you like more definition, and a cardigan or a light knit over the top carries it into cooler months. It is the kind of dress that solves a wedding guest afternoon and an ordinary Saturday with equal ease.

Why you will love it

• Features: Pleated, Seam detail
• Square neckline with a pleated skirt
• Black gingham check pattern
• Material composition: 95% Polyester, 5% Spandex
• Stretch: No stretch
• Body: Not lined
• Available in sizes S, M, L, XL and 2XL

Care

• Machine wash cold
• Tumble dry low