You’ve probably used either gingham or plaid as part of your home decor. You may even be confused between the two patterns and have used both terms interchangeably. Although they look similar, did you know there’s a major difference between gingham vs plaid?
I love a good print, and that includes both gingham and plaid. Although I must confess, I had NO idea what’s the difference between gingham vs plaid before I wrote this post!
I always thought plaid referred to the pattern found on casual flannel shirts, whereas gingham referred to a formal checked pattern found on women’s dresses, men’s shirts, tablecloths, and picnic mats.
Gingham and plaid are both classic patterns that have been used since the 8th century. Although they look similar, they’re certainly NOT the same.
In this post, I will share with you everything I’ve discovered about gingham vs plaid. Read on to find out more about:
- What is gingham?
- What is plaid?
- Examples of gingham in home decor
- Examples of plaid in home decor
- Five ways to incorporate plaid or gingham in home decor
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What is gingham?
According to Masterclass, gingham is a cotton or cotton blend fabric made with dyed yarn and woven using a plain weave to form a checked pattern.
It’s usually a two-color pattern, with red and white gingham or blue and white gingham being the most popular combinations.
The checked pattern can come in different sizes although the finished pattern is always symmetrical. It is also reversible and appears the same on both sides.
What is plaid?
Although plaid uses a similar checked pattern, the difference lies in the colors and variety of the pattern.
Plaid usually has more than two colors and its lines are often asymmetrical. There are different types of plaid, namely tartan plaid, and madras plaid.
Examples of gingham in home decor
- Towels
- Throw pillow covers
- Headboard
- Bed frame
- Rug
- Napkins
- Accent chair
- Utensils
- Throw blanket
- Bed linens
- Tea towels
- Wallpaper
- Window treatments
- Backsplash
Examples of plaid in home decor
- Bed linens
- Throw blanket
- Throw pillow covers
- Rugs
How to incorporate gingham or plaid in home decor
Some people think decorating with gingham or plaid is only suitable for farmhouse or country-style houses. I disagree!
I consider gingham or plaid to be an extremely versatile pattern. Although it is a traditional and classic pattern, it can be used in a modern setting too.
Here are five ways you can incorporate gingham or plaid in your home decor.
Create a layer of interest in a neutral space
If you love neutrals but want to add a layer of interest in your space, consider using gingham or plaid as an accent pattern. Too much gingham or plaid can look borderline tacky, but one bold piece can give a much-needed contrast to a neutral space.
The trick to making this pattern work in a neutral home is to stick to a neutral color scheme. I love using cream and tan plaid rugs like this one to anchor a beige or cream living room.
If you’re too nervous to use this pattern on a large scale, try adding these plaid throw pillows on your couch instead.
Complement other patterns and textures
Amongst all patterns, I find plaid and gingham to be the most versatile. They complement other patterns and textures so well. As a result, it is common to find either gingham or plaid in a traditional or contemporary home.
The tip to making all of the patterns work is to make sure that you use varying scales while sticking to the same color family. Take a cue from the photo above and match a plaid duvet with floral bed linens.
Alternatively, you can pair powder blue and white gingham bed linens with navy and grey striped wallpaper. This chic combo is perfect for a teenager’s room.
Add a pop of color
Is your home looking a little dull because it lacks a pop of color? Try adding a bright-colored plaid or gingham pattern.
There are so many colorful plaid and gingham options in the market. My favorite way to inject some color into home decor is by adding a comfy plaid throw blanket or a cool gingham tray.
Add a touch of masculinity
Sometimes you need a print or pattern to lend a touch of masculinity to the whole space. Besides stripes, you can count on gingham or plaid to add some masculine drama.
To achieve a traditionally masculine room, stick to darker-colored gingham or plaid patterns. Black and white gingham wallpaper paired with corduroy or velvet fabrics will make a space look and feel darker and moodier.
Too scared to commit to wallpaper? Try a grey plaid armchair, pouf, or beanbag in your man cave.
Inject a hint of festivity
Finally, there’s nothing like good old-fashioned red and green plaid that screams the holidays. Inject a hint of festivity inside your home by using this traditional pattern in your soft furnishings.
Plaid throw pillows, table runners, and tablecloths are particularly popular during the holiday season. Want to take your holiday decorating up a notch? Use plaid drapes to evoke a timeless and magical feel in your home.
Do you prefer gingham or plaid? And, will you use either of these patterns in your home decor?