Spring is a natural time to start adding color and pattern back into your wardrobe. No offense to gingham, but there are more ways to accomplish that goal.

Consider large-scale checks. From a moderately large pink-and-navy or ocean blue, to a warm coral tattersall or a truly oversized navy-and-white, these checked patterns can command attention while remaining casual and laid-back.

How to Wear Large-Scale Checks
The easiest way to wear any large-scale check is casually. Pair them with a pair of jeans or khaki chinos or shorts, and you’ve got a solid, neutral-colored base that will balance everything happening above the beltline. In return, whichever large-scale check you’ve chosen to wear will ensure that even this simple outfit is anything but boring.

It’s more challenging to wear them with a suit or sportcoat, but this can be done so long as you follow this simple formula: patterned shirt, solid suit, solid tie. Once you feel that you’ve mastered the approach, you can shake it up further with a patterned tie, provided it’s distinct from the pattern of your shirt and will stand against it. For instance, a striped red tie or a printed club tie. If you’d rather keep the tie solid, you can add interest via texture by selecting a knit or grenadine tie.