Gingham on a bikini is one of those combinations that just works, and we think it works because the pattern is inherently cheerful without trying too hard. It has a retro quality that sits naturally at the beach or by a pool without looking costumey. The check reads as intentional. Put together. Like you actually thought about what you packed rather than grabbing whatever was clean.

What we love about gingham specifically is how it photographs. The contrast of the pattern pops in bright light in a way that plain colours and even some prints simply do not. It earns its place in every holiday photo.

We have pulled together our favourite gingham bikinis across cuts and colourways because this pattern genuinely rewards a good edit. The classic red and white is here. So is navy, which we think is slightly underrated. Some of these are bold and structured, some are softer and more relaxed in fit. All of them are the kind of thing you see in your bag at the airport and feel quietly pleased about.

Pack gingham once and you will pack it every time.