Which is better
in my life
work - bengal
play - gingham
Their on a par for me. Both have their place, without a tie I'd lean toward Gingham. Though my sense of casual includes wearing ties and trouser/coat combos. Formal for me just means a suit at a formal event, like a wedding.
Bengals are brighter than ginghams
Bengal. I had to wear blue gingham shirts for two years, and have always disliked gingham since then. It's fine for table cloths for picnic tables, though.
Gingham and suit can be hugh-Grant-boyish at best, but scream "SAP Enterprise Architect" when using bold ginghams, a shaved head and a goatee.
I've always quite liked Gingham shirts with Herringbone. Just thought I'd share that with you.