The French Definition of Chic! 3 Ways to Rock “La Marinière” or Stripes-T
The classic white striped tees that we know today originated from the French coastal region of Brittany. The 1958 Act of France saw navy seamen in the area given a striped woven top bearing 21 horizontal stripes ( one for each of Napoleon’s victories) as a uniform, known as a “matelot marinière”. Thе garment was born out of functionality: the boat neckline allowed sailors to dress quickly and to spot an overboard shipmate (and firmly blew any prison-like connotations out of the water).
Thе official Breton top, manufactured locally in wool and in cotton, was eventually adopted by many sailors across the region of northern France, and it was upon a visit to the coast that fashion designer Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel came across it.
The seamen’s attire inspired her to create a nautical-themed collection in 1917, which was stocked in her boutique in the wealthy holiday resort of Deauville in Normandy. Chanel favored masculine silhouettes to empower her female clientele. She was pictured sporting one of her loose-fitting Breton tops tucked into a pair of wide-leg trousers. High society soon cottoned on, and members of the upper class adopted these stripy tops under blazers.
Today, stripes have earned their place as something far more solid than a wardrobe ‘must-have’; they are a foundation piece deifying trends, age brackets, and sexes. Stripes in all their guises can be casual and cheerful, on the opposite end of the scale, investment-worthy and collectible. Thе Frеnсh connotations are fading (unless paired with a neck scarf), and what remains is one of the most enduring and accessible patterns around.
How the French Wear It
Casual Look: Combined with Denim
A classic, casual look that’s perfect for strutting the streets, a lunch date, or anything outdoors. This look can easily be translated from Summer with denim shorts or a vest, to Spring or Fall with a blazer. Pair this look with espadrille (heels or not) and a tote bag, or dress it up with a straw hat and red lipstick.
Sexy look: An Edge with Leather
This combination is popular with celebrities ( like Kate Moss and Gigi Hadid). The fusion of the classic striped tee with leather is easy to create. It is It іѕ a mix that will always be chic. Pair them with simple, smaller accessories to let the outfit speak for itself.
Artsy look: A Pop of Color
Another way to successfully wear the mariniere, with a little more fun is by adding a statement color to your outfit. Choose one color from your current wardrobe, and don’t be afraid to go bold! For an easy choice, think primary colors. Reds, yellows, blues, and green all work nicely with the white and black or white and blue stripes.
French Brands that Carry Them
- Petit Bateau
- Armor-Lux
- Chanel
- YSL
- Saint James
- Jean Paul Gaultier
- Fileuse d’Arvor
Because the mariniere is so versatile, there’s massive room for experimentation and play.
The classic La Mariniere is termed to be a wardrobe staple in Parisian style
My sincere fashion advice as a lifestyle expert will guarantee you fabulous looks that make every confident woman stand out. Whether it’s denim, slacks, or pencil skirts, these simple tips can help you build confidence and self-esteem like never before seen.
My style expert advice relates to redefining the aura of a strong, independent woman of today. And that is the foundation of true luxury living.
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