French Fashion What’s with the Striped Tops?

By Margo Lestz:

If you’re looking to add a bit of Frenchness to your wardrobe, a blue and white striped knit shirt could just do the trick. It’s a classic that anyone can wear. Whether you are male, female, young, or old the crisp stripes will add a dash of flair. While navy blue and white are the traditional colors, these comfortable shirts can be found with black, red, and other colored stripes as well.

…Continue reading here for Margo’s article on the French fashion, the striped sweater (or shirt) is one that has been repeated in images time and again to the point of being a stereotype. Often called Breton stripes, likely because of the strong maritime influences (fishing industry and navy sailors) in Brittany.

However, this French fashion item is hardly exclusive to France. On a recent return flight from Madrid to the Marseille-Provence airport, the number of tourists far outnumbered the French nationals wearing marinière (blue and white striped) tops.

Contributor blog post:  The Curious Rambler