Stripes are everywhere this season, and thankfully for us they're the perfect easy-to wear trend. A great figure fixer and perfectly on-trend; what's not to love?!
…And it’s not hard to see why! Originally created as part of the uniform for all French navy seamen in Brittany, it’s a design that’s since been worn by – well, practically everyone – including royalty!
It was Coco Chanel who originally brought the Breton top into the fashion world back in the early 1900s, and since then, the style has been a favourite of Audrey Hepburn, Audrey Tatou and our very own Duchess of Cambridge.
Catherine often turns to the style when she’s dressing down at weekends. Pictured here back in June at a polo club, the Duchess keeps it simple and pairs hers with comfy jeans and flats for the ultimate laid-back weekend style. It’s a look that’s been emulated over and over again since, and one that can work for any shape and size.
Forget what you’ve heard – stripes aren’t unflattering. In fact, they can often be completely the opposite. A thin stripe is instantly slimming, while of course we all know that vertical stripes will draw the eye downwards, creating a longer and slimmer sillhouette. Choose according to your shape – pear shapes will look great in a Breton top, while apple shapes can make the most of their legs in a dress or striped trousers.
Click through to shop the style Catherine loves, then discover our top striped style buys for the season ahead…
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ME+EM Breton Top, £48
Love the Duchess' look? You can get it! This is the exact ME+EM top she wore to the polo, and it's no wonder she chose this style - it's the ultimate figure fixer! The flattering 3/4 length sleeves draw the eye upwards, while clever subtle ruching along the hem diguises any lumps and bumps. Paired with a wide crew neckline that lenghtens the neck and shows of the collarbone, it's flattering without being remotely uncomfortable. The cotton/Lyocell blend fabric is soft and extremely durable, for a style that will last through washes and weekend antics!
Has Catherine found the perfect comfy off-duty top? We certainly think so!
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J.Crew Collection Stripe Paillette Dress, £298
The shift shape of this J.Crew dress makes it so easy to wear, and the neck embellishment is guaranteed to get you noticed. A chic pair of flats and bag are all you need to make this a head-turner, and the sleeves and loose fit cover all manner of sins on a bad day.
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Topshop Stripe Wide Leg Trousers, £38
Hello instant shape-fixer! We still love the palazzo pant trend, and the vertical stripes on these Topshop trousers make them instantly leg-lengthening - perfect for ladies who aren't comfortable with their pins on show. Perfect for embracing the current seventies trend!
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& Other Stories Wool Pinstripe Culottes, £65
Culottes are going nowhere soon - time to get on board with the trend! Cleverly designed pleating combined with vertical stripes make these & Other Stories culottes the ultimate hip and thigh slimmers. Pair with heels to lengthen legs, and always tuck your top in to make the most of your waist - we recommend pairing with a stylish but simple polo neck.
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Zara Striped Shirt With Kimono Sleeves, £22.99
Every woman needs a great classic shirt, but why not mix it up with this Zara shirt?
The stripes make it on-trend, but it's guaranteed to be your go-to item
thanks to its slouchy fit and colour palette. Wear with slim-fitting
trousers to balance out a heavier bottom half.
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Whistles Striped Dress, £85
A simple black and white stripe dress is a layering staple that will be worth its weight in gold. Wear this Whistles dress in summer with ballet flats and a floppy hat for the ultimate Pairisian chich, then layer a polo neck underneath and pair with tights in winter. This fitted style is especially suited to those who feel confident showing off their waist.
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Frame Denim Le Shirt Dress, £265
Ah the shirt dress - a perennially fashionable staple that's as flattering as it is comfortable. The style will be seen everywhere in the season ahead, so jump on board with the trend early and wait for the approving glances to come your way!
This Frame Denim design is
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Lavish Alice at Simply Be Stripe Collarless Cape Blazer, £65
Smarten up your usual work attire with this blazer from Simply Be. The cape design is so stylish for autumn/winter, and the colour palette will brighten up any day. Wear with all black to make it really stand out.
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Coast Prena Stripe Dress, £109
Pear shaped? This is THE dress for you! Eyes will automatically be drawn upwards to the thicker stripes (thin stripes can be flattering!), and the top layers sits just above the waist, so you're left with the perfect hourglass shape. Wear this dress from Coast to your next occasion with heels and a simple blazer to feel fabulous all night.
