The Perfect Breton Stripe Top: Where to Buy and How to Style

The perfect Breton stripe top is a navy and white horizontally striped piece with a classic boat neck, three-quarter sleeves, and a slightly relaxed fit that skims the body without clinging. As a stylist who's spent years perfecting wardrobes, I can tell you that this single piece will work harder than almost anything else in your closet, transitioning seamlessly from weekend casual to polished chic with the right styling tricks.

The History Behind the Stripes

The Breton stripe isn't just a fashion statement—it's steeped in maritime heritage. Originally worn by French sailors in Brittany, the design featured exactly 21 white stripes and 20 navy stripes, making it easier to spot sailors who'd fallen overboard. Coco Chanel revolutionised this workwear staple in 1917, transforming it into a chic wardrobe essential that's never gone out of style.

What Makes the Perfect Breton Top

After styling countless clients, I've identified the key elements of an exceptional Breton stripe top. The fabric should have enough weight to drape beautifully—avoid thin, clingy materials that show every bump. The neckline should sit elegantly across your collarbone, and the sleeves should hit at the perfect three-quarter length. The stripe width matters too: medium-width stripes are most universally flattering, whilst very thin stripes can appear busy and very wide stripes can overwhelm petite frames.

Styling Your Breton for Every Occasion

The beauty of a Breton lies in its versatility. For effortless weekend styling, I pair mine with straight-leg jeans and white trainers—it's that perfect "I didn't try but look amazing" combination. For work, tuck it into tailored trousers with a blazer and pointed flats. The contrast between the casual stripe and structured pieces creates a sophisticated balance that works in any office environment.

For evening, try layering it under a slip dress or pairing it with a leather skirt and ankle boots. The stripe adds an unexpected casual element that prevents your look from feeling too precious. During colder months, it works beautifully layered under chunky knits or worn with a sharp blazer.

Flattering Different Body Types

Contrary to old-fashioned rules about horizontal stripes, Breton tops can flatter every figure when chosen and styled correctly. If you're curvier, opt for a slightly looser fit that skims rather than clings, and consider a V-neck version to elongate your neckline. Petite frames should choose finer stripes and a more fitted silhouette to avoid being overwhelmed. Taller, straighter figures can embrace wider stripes and boxy cuts for added visual interest.

Where to Shop: High Street Heroes

The high street offers fantastic Breton options at every price point. COS consistently delivers the most beautifully cut versions with premium cotton and perfect proportions. Whistles offers elevated takes with unique details like contrast cuffs or subtle texture variations. Jigsaw creates sophisticated versions in luxury fabrics that feel more expensive than their price point suggests.

Reiss excels at modern interpretations with contemporary cuts, whilst M&S offers incredible value for classic styles that wash and wear beautifully. French Connection brings a slightly edgier approach with cropped styles and interesting necklines. Boden creates charming versions with thoughtful details that feel distinctly British yet timeless.

Premium and Designer Options

For premium choices, Max Mara crafts exceptionally luxurious versions in Italian cotton that improve with age. A.P.C. stays true to French heritage with perfectly proportioned classics that epitomise effortless Parisian chic. Ganni brings a Danish design sensibility with interesting silhouettes and premium organic cottons that feel contemporary yet timeless.

Care and Longevity

A quality Breton top should last for years with proper care. Always wash in cold water to prevent shrinkage and colour bleeding. Turn inside out to protect the stripes, and avoid fabric softener which can break down the cotton fibres. Air dry when possible—the heat from tumble dryers can cause cotton to lose its shape and softness over time.

Find Your Perfect Fit with Tellar.co.uk

Finding the right size in your favourite Breton top has never been easier with Tellar.co.uk, the UK's leading sizing tool. Rather than wrestling with confusing size guides, Tellar matches your body measurements to over 1,500 brands instantly.

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Measure once using your bust, waist, hip measurements, or input your existing brand size
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Plus, explore the Tellar Fashion Hub, a comprehensive library of styling advice from top stylists. Honest, unbiased, independent, and always free. Whether you need sizing guidance, want to discover the latest jean trends, or need help choosing the perfect dress or ideal jacket, Tellar has you covered.

Never look at a size guide again—let Tellar take the guesswork out of online shopping and find your perfect Breton stripe top today.