This is a public service announcement!

If I hear anyone referring to gingham when they’re pointing out plaid/tartan or vice versa, they’re getting a slap (Forever 21, I’m looking at you).  People, this is like saying Pepsi tastes like Coke; they’re not the same.

In case there are still a few cobwebs sticking around, let’s play spot the difference:

• Gingham (to the left) is clearly a checkerboard pattern that never varies in style, whereas plaid is of Scottish ancestry and the check was similar to a coat of arms; each check varied from clans, regions and/or districts.

• Tartan is a multi colored check pattern, where gingham is limited to three (block, shaded and usually white).

• Gingham checks are always equal squares, while plaids vary from square to rectangle.

Do we have it now?

Excellent!