The classic stripe
A fresh stripe
Classic stripe fashion transcends a particular place or decade because it simply works.They reappear every season and have become that staple wardrobe filler.
WHY ?
because they pass the simple fashion test of being chic, simple, affordable and fresh. After the year that our wardrobes have stood neglected it’s just the tonic of newness required.
The nautical history
Tricot raye
In 1858 an act was passed by the French government that demanded that Brittany’s naval uniform change to a “tricot raye” or striped knit shirt.The thick shirts were essential to the sailors safety, allowing the white stripe to stand out making them easy to spot especially in the water.
No21
The seaman’s law stated that the exact number of stripes 21 white and 21 indigo blue to be finished with a white collar.
images The Times
Stripe influence
The stripe cover of Vogue in the 1930s and Harper’s Bazaar in 1951 are two fabulous examples of how fashion uses the stripe to enhance a holiday or summer memory. The bold red stripes are matched again with white or blue the other most popular stripes.
Effortless chic
Elle ,instyle ,Vogue
Star style
Iconic images of the French film star Bridget Bardot flashed around the world in the 1950s, pictured tantalisingly in the south of France surrounded by blue sparkling seas, sun kissed tussled hair, her skin a deep caramel, her stripe wardrobe photographed stunningly well in the St Tropez background.
Image Instyle
BB
Born in 1938 the former French actress and singer now an animal’s rights activist teased the world with her bohemian lifestyle and free flowing sensuality.
All images Elle
Essential stripe
Beach stripe
The use of stripes on beach umbrellas, deck chairs and sail boats is the reason many of us buy in to the escapism of stripes it reminds us of warm carefree holidays and sunshine, the sound of the sea and clear blue skies.
vogue
Holiday essentials
Worn from swimwear to jeans, shorts to dresses there is no age or limit to achieving a fresh classy look.
Star style
Three different necklines and different variations on the stripe pattern
Grazia,Elle,WWD
Stripe dress style
Harper’s Bazaar,Elle ,Hallo
The truly stunning Amal Clooney black, grey, pink and navy ..the British barrister is fast turning into the Queen of stripe.The black and white dress by D&G accessorised with a hat box in Venice was only just topped by two stunning outfits from Tome.
2021 Shopping
A classic stripe
Every season I buy a great stripe sweater as well as long and short sleeve t-shirts. They bring to mind artists (Picasso) designers (Coco Chanel) and fisherman but the popularity of these French girl classic stripes is due to the way they effortlessly remain so chic and understated, accessible to all ages, price brackets and to be enjoyed throughout the year.
Their versatility to be worn with shorts, dungarees or jeans for casual holidays or reimagined under a smart tuxedo or blazer for a night out are an essential buy to add to your Spring purchases.
New season
Marks and Spencer shirts from £7.50 and this stripe dress under £20 a choice of beach bags £25 just add white jeans or shorts
This jumper from Zara at £27.99 shown with stripe shorts but I will wear with through the Summer a great buy a wardrobe must in store now.
My style
Cream & black
This £19.50 square neck jumper from M&S ticks all the boxes with white linen trousers.
casual style
Walking the dog with a puffa jacket from The White Company and jeans.
High street style
Getting the right shirt
Fit, comfort, colour, fabric, practicability.
Understand your proportions and silhouette when buying stripes, with any shirt allow for functioning of arms and length. What colour will work for you I prefer darker stripes but check what’s already in the wardrobe if in doubt black, blue, white or cream.The fabric will determine the quality, durability, price and design make sure your shirt lives up to your expectations.
Chic stripe
Worn with a blazer or cardigan with cropped or flared jeans quick and stylish dressing at its best, the larger the stripe the more casual the look.
Roger Vivier
French stripe shoes
The French shoe designer Roger Henri Vivier is credited with the creation of the stiletto heel in 1954. The Queen wore his creations for her coronation in 1953.
His most iconic design, the pilgrim pump with silver buckles worn by the French actress Catherine Deneuve in the film Belle de jour.
The Pilgrim pump recreated every season
Parisian chic
“ I disregard the idea of trends changing automatically from one season to the next. My wardrobe evolves gradually, with subtle updates in accordance with my lifestyle.”
Ines De La Fressange
(Paris Match)