Although we spend the majority of our days looking at new trends, there are moments when we like to shine a light on the tried-and-tested pieces that work 365 days a year. You know, the jeans that fit in all the right places or the blazer that makes you look like you’ve made an effort—even if you haven’t brushed your hair. Then there’s the top that never lets you down: the Breton.
As far as iconic fashion pieces go, the striped top is up there with the best of them. Introduced as the uniform for the French Navy in 1858, the one and only Coco Chanel later took inspiration from the sailors’ look for her nautical collection in 1917. Since then, we can categorically say that the rest is, well, history.
Striped tees and jumpers are now go-tos for an entire range of women, from the likes of Kate Middleton to the fashion industry’s elite. Giving that certain je ne sais quoi to any outfit, this is the chic separate that will go the distance in your wardrobe way beyond 2024.
Every single editor at Who What Wear HQ has said they own at least one of these striped classics. Then there are the fashion people (including the founder of cult Parisian brand Rouje, Jeanne Damas) who make them part of their everyday uniforms. Luckily, we’ve found the best places to shop them. From Jil Sander to Mango to & Other Stories, there’s a striped top to suit every style and budget.
