There’s something so satisfying about when a true wardrobe classic is heralded a ‘trend’ on any given season. This essentially means that the item is, most likely, already sitting in your wardrobe and that its renewed energy will yield plenty of fresh outfit inspiration for the year ahead. This season, this has manifested in the humble Breton knit. Embraced by the likes of Celine and Toteme, the Breton 2.0 is defined by its stunning simplicity: The timeless cream, white and navy colourways, the lack of adornment, and the clean silhouettes that are usually reserved for menswear.Â
Naturally, the high-street has followed suit, with Arket, & Other Stories and COS all offering up striped styles that have garnered their own cult following. In Lyst’s 2021 Year in Fashion Report, & Other Stories’s sellout striped knit was even highlighted as one of the year’s ‘most wanted products’. “Searches similar to the retailer’s minimalist-leaning striped jumper were an indicator of the nautical-inspired item’s return, as inquiries for striped knitwear increased 125% year-on-year”, the report states. “In early August, month-on-month searches for striped polo sweaters were also up 37%.” If you’re struggling to find other affordable options, I would also recommend checking out the men’s department—I end up borrowing my husband’s old Arket striped jumper constantly as I find the fabric and cut rivals many designer iterations I’ve tried on previously. You should also check out second-hand sites, such as Etsy, which are a goldmine for nautical originals at super affordable prices. But, for now, I’ve put together 4 striped jumper outfits that I plan on recreating this season. From vinyl skirts to white denim, scroll down to see my looks.
Stripe-on-stripes might seem full-on, but it’s actually an easy way to experiment with the print clashing trend. Just add a knotted scarf and slip-on loafers for a very Parisienne ensemble.Â
Okay, it’s a bit rogue, but I’m kind of obsessed with this Gucci vinyl midi skirt. It acts as a satisfying contrast to the woolly texture of Toteme’s roll neck knit. Just finish the look with chunky combat boots.
Embrace the Breton’s nautical origins with a pair of white jeans and leather cage sandals. Ideal for when the weather finally starts to creep towards spring.Â
This is my ‘Emily in Paris finally gets a hang of French girl dressing’ outfit. It’s a cool mix of ’60s-inspired silhouettes, classic tailoring via the trench coat, then a hit of avant garde thanks to the knee-high patent boots.Â
