Classic Striped French Tees Every Woman Should Own

There’s just something about a classic striped tee. Whether it’s the timeless appeal of French-girl style or the fact that it pairs just as easily with jeans as it does with a black blazer, it’s a wardrobe essential I come back to again and again. Maybe it even has something to do with the current fisherman aesthetic that’s so popular in the fashion world. Don’t even get me started on boat shoes. Oh, how I wish I had saved a few pairs!

And if there’s one item that has never gone out of style, it’s the marinière. That signature Breton striped shirt, originally worn by French navy sailors, has become a staple thanks to style icons like Coco Chanel and Brigitte Bardot. Over the years, I’ve collected a few favorites that I rotate constantly — some newer, some so well-loved they’ve become soft and slouchy in all the right ways.

Wearing a striped tee as an accessory.

Wearing a striped tee tied at my waist, sort of like an accessory, is something I do pretty often. I didn’t even realize it until I searched my site. This is the Kule boyfriend tee that I always travel with, as it makes the perfect tee to throw on if it gets chilly.

What to Look for in the Perfect Striped Tee

• A slightly boxy fit – Just enough structure to feel polished, but relaxed enough for everyday.
• A heavy cotton is my favorite, but a lighter version is a nice option in warmer months.
• Classic navy and white (or cream) stripes – Though black, red, or even olive can be beautiful, too.
• 100% cotton shirts – Some are made of a lightweight cotton, others are heavier-weight cotton, but always 100% cotton.

Outfit Ideas – How I Style Mine

I wear mine with everything — truly. But here are a few favorite combinations:

• Striped tee + Blue Jeans + Loafers or Ballet Flats(Add a trench coat and you could be in Paris.)
• Striped tee tucked into a white linen skirt for a fresh take on summer neutrals.
• Layered under a blazer with jeans or a midi skirt. 
• Olive green trousers + Jean Jacket and a striped tee tied at the waist for a casual weekend look.
• Layered under an oversized shirt or over a traditional button-down.
• Striped tee + Denim Shirt or  Chambray Shirt– Add a bandana tied at the neck (classic style) for a casual outfit.
• Mixed Patterns – Mix plaid shirts with your favorite striped tee for a modern twist

Saint James Tees at Printempts in New York.

Saint James Tees

My Go-To Brands for Striped Tees – Short Sleeve

Left to right: Cos Clean Cut T-Shirt // Kule The Modern // Doen Vivi Tee // Kule The Modern // Tuckernuck Parker Classic Tee // Saint James Etrille Nautical Stripe Tee

My Go-To Brands for Striped Tees – Long Sleeve

Kule The Modern Long Tee // Kule The Boyfriend Tee // Doen Annie Tee // Cos Regular Clean Cut Long-Sleeve // Boden Olivia Long Sleeve Breton // Saint James Minquiers Drop Drop Shoulder Breton Striped Shirt 

Alex Mill Merseille Boatneck Striped Tee

Alex Mill just released the Merseille Striped tees in navy and burgundy. The design is based on a vintage find from Marseille, but the fit was modernized with updated proportions. And of course. 100% cotton. You can shop all my favorites from Alex Mill here.

Here are a few that I always come back to:

• Saint James – The original. A bit of a splurge, but made with excellent quality and will last forever. They only get better with age. This one is a unisex fit and made of heavyweight cotton.
• Kule – Their Modern and Classic cuts have a slightly playful twist while still feeling timeless. The boyfriend tees suit my personal preferences.
• Everlane – The Modern Breton Tee is a great option if you want clean lines and soft cotton at a lower price point.
• J.Crew – Their boatneck striped tees are classic. 
• Sézane – Colette Mariniére is Parisian perfection with little feminine details (buttons, delicate embroidery).

Why It’s Worth Owning More Than One

Because they do all feel a little different, some are fitted and feminine, while others are slouchy and borrowed from the boys. A crisp new one feels polished. A slightly worn-in one has that insouciant charm.

And on days when I’m not sure what to wear, I reach for a striped tee. It always works for casual looks. Add a few of these timeless shirts to your capsule wardrobe.

As seen on Linda V. Wright

Photo credit: @lindavwright

Linda Wright is the owner and creative director of Crimson Cashmere in Paris.

& Noelani of La Vie on Grand

Photo Credit: @lavieongrand

Noelani is the owner and creator of the website La Vie on Grand where she shares all things French, including retreats!

A Few Favorites I’m Loving Right Now

Long-sleeved t-shirts will always be my favorite for all the reasons I’ve already mentioned. They have a lot of uses, from wearing over a swimsuit with shorts to wearing under a blazer for a professional look. My entire wardrobe could probably work in a Breton shirt of some sort! 

I prefer the navy or black with cream, but I do love the neutral colors from Sézane that I’m seeing right now, especially for warmer weather. A striped tee in almost any color combination is an easy outfit with a modern look.

Do you have a favorite striped tee that’s been in your closet for years? Are you on the hunt for the perfect one this season? Or, what are your top wardrobe essentials? I’d love to hear!