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Our expert Madeline Fass explains us how: Graphic striped tops are a timeless classic. Stripes – to save drowning sailors.
The Breton top has its origins in 1858, when the French Navy introduced a white cotton pullover with horizontal indigo stripes as its official uniform. This was very practical – it was easy to notice if someone fell overboard …and as a distinguishing feature of stars.
The striped top entered social life in the 1920s thanks to American dandies Gerald and Sarah Murphy, who invented the “summer season” on the Cote d’Azur. In 1923, Gerald returned from a trip to Marseille with a shipment of shirts from a local tailor, and soon the Murphys and their A-list guests, including Great Gatsby writer F. Scott Fitzgerald and Spanish artist Pablo Picasso, were sporting them poolside.
Chanel Helped Too
The great Coco Chanel later incorporated stripes into her nautical-inspired collections, while Breton clothing brought a bit of Riviera-inspired insouciance to everyone from James Dean and Andy Warhol to Kurt Cobain and Jean-Paul Gaultier (who also featured it on the bottle of his Le Male fragrance). So, Breton stripes are not just a fashion statement. This is a timeless classic.
Vest Now
“The nautical trend in fashion this year is like butter in bread: together they are much tastier and inextricably linked. A well-chosen striped top with sleeves or a T-shirt is a “smart” style-defining item that is suitable for almost any occasion,” explains an expert.
Daily Routine
Typically, when heading to a meeting or the dry cleaners, you’ll pull out a gray T-shirt or sweatshirt, but Breton is a great addition to your rotation. “These are the same infinitely comfortable everyday clothes, but with an interesting, thoughtful design,” says Madeline Fass.
Chic On Vacation
Nothing says relaxation like a striped knit top. If you’re not a dress fan or prefer to dress in layers for changeable weather, pair it with a denim midi skirt. “Straw accessories are a mandatory attribute of a marine theme,” recalls the expert.
Stylish Work Clothes
“A shirt or blouse can look fussy or too formal under a smart pantsuit, but a vest is the perfect base: a slim fit without adding too much bulk, no collar to keep the neckline simple and graphic, and a simple, crisp print,” says the Fass.
Trendy Option
For the most modern option, opt for an updated and reimagined version of the Breton top. Colored stripes, a loose or high cut and a contrasting logo. Wear with trendy pieces for a trendy look for the season.
Summer To The Office
Comfortable pieces that you can throw on at 7:30 a.m. without waking up are perfect for busy mornings, and a striped top will distract attention from creases if you haven’t had time to iron something.
“This summery yellow-green version adds a modern touch: wear it just like a regular white T-shirt for a fun update to everyday outfits,” explains Fass.
Smart Casual Style
“Take advantage of the Parisian mood and combine stripes with equally French-style items. If you need to look put together without feeling pompous, a polished casual look is the ideal option, and Breton is perfect for this,” says Madeline.
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