Gingham and I are/were in couples therapy. I get that it’s everyone’s favorite summer print, blah, blah, blah.  But, it typically makes me feel like a twee picnic blanket, so I choose to neglect it… hence the rift between us.  And yet, we still have an unspoken, intangible, undeniable connection, thus the need for a little How to Lose A Guy in Ten Days-style couples therapy. Now, I know what you’re wondering.  Do we need to go to Staten Island for the weekend?  Now THAT is a positive idea, Ben!  So, we went to Staten Island for the weekend. Well, kind of.  Our version of going to Staten Island was my perusing of Timo Weiland’s DIE. NO. MITE. capsule collection for Banana Republic during which one look at these gingham coordinates had me buckling at the knees and drooling on myself.  Definitively less sexy than the Kate Hudson-Matthew McConaughey bathroom scene, but no less real.  It was the first time in months (years?) that a gingham print didn’t make me want to waddle around asking when it was time to change for tee-ball practice.  I mean, the modern silhouettes?  The navy fringe detail?!  En fuego.   I’ve waxed on about the amazing versatility of coordinating twin sets in the past, and this duo is no exception.  I love the coordinates worn together for a trendy-yet-work-appropriate look, but am also amped about the possibilities of styling each piece separately as well.  The skirt alone with any other white or navy top is a no-brainer.  And this crop top?  Again, pair it with navy, white, denim, white denim… endless options!  Outside of the office, I’m especially itching to throw on some high-waisted white denim shorts (obsessed with these and these!) with this gingham crop top for a perfect little summer get-up.

GINGHAM CROP TOP:  Timo Weiland for Banana Republic  |  GINGHAM PENCIL SKIRT: Timo Weiland for Banana Republic (also love this linen version)  |  BAG: Phillip Lim  |  SHOES: Jimmy Choo  |  LIP: Neutrogena