Fashion Experts Are Suddenly Back Into Breton Tops—These 22 Outfits Prove It

August 08, 2021 at 06:14AM

Breton stripes never go out of fashion. They are far too classic and essential an item to be relegated on a whim, but it’s true that they do go through moments where popularity surges and they become noticeably more on-trend than a season or moment before. Now is one such time. Everywhere I look, there are Breton stripes, and they’re being worn in such a variety of new ways that it’s the perfect time to gather inspiration.

A nautical trend to autumn fashion is like butter to bread—the two are so much more delicious together and are inextricably linked. Although a simple item, you will find that a well-chosen striped knit or tee is the kind of clever item you’ll pull out at this time every year without fail, making it an investment to not be ignored. 

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Any previous Breton purchases will stand the test of time and look good in 2021. There are a few quirky iterations on offer this year, though, should you still be searching for your “one.” We’ve noticed sportier silhouettes coming through via sweatshirts and zip-front styles as well as smart, collared options for those who aren’t as keen on a crew-neck. Arket’s new marinière styles sold out very quickly upon arrival a couple of months ago (though is now finally back in stock), but this is one styling idea where you don’t have to buy an It item at all—just a plain ol’ basic will do.

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Keep scrolling to get all of the Breton-top outfit ideas you’ll ever need.

Style Notes: Yes, marinière stripes are a wonderful companion to comfy black leggings.

Style Notes: When you don’t want to go outside without some sensible layers, a chunky Breton knit over your shoulders will do nicely.

Style Notes: Tailoring and chunky flat shoes lend a nerdy charm to any Breton sweater.

Style Notes: Skinny jeans and cowboy boots add a more rock ‘n’ roll edge to a classic striped jumper.

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Style Notes: Your look doesn’t have to be laid-back—striped knits work with skirts and heels, too.

Style Notes: A happy partner to chinos and loafers for a preppy spin.

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Style Notes: Bretons are inherently casual, so I like the idea of glamming them up with gold hoops, sunnies, and a claw clip.

Style Notes: With straight-leg jeans and Birkenstocks, the nautical knit gets a very 2021 update.

Style Notes: Your sailor-style knit will absolutely work with any of the slip skirts you invested in a few years back.

Style Notes: Throw a bold blazer on top of a jeans-and-Breton combination for a fast track to looking smart.

Style Notes: Many French women are rediscovering flares this year, and they are a perfect match for a striped jumper.

Style Notes: Breton tees work with all sorts of basics, but have you tried one with a linen skirt yet? Do it!

Style Notes: Just by swapping out blue jeans for white ones, you instantly have a summer-ready look.

Style Notes: This year’s striped jumpers feature some subtle, extra details—like the contrast sleeves pictured here.

Style Notes: A fine-gauge knit tucked into high-waisted jeans is such a sophisticated idea.

Style Notes: You can veer away from the traditional—this bolder cardigan option makes quite the statement with plain trousers.

Style Notes: The classic marinière stripe always works well with leopard print.

Style Notes: A striped fleece or zip-front sweatshirt looks so good with dark-wash jeans and flats.

Style Notes: A Breton knotted over the shoulders of a trench coat? Chic.

Style Notes: Collared Bretons are having a bit of a moment—this Arket style sold out fast, but is finally back in stock (and in my edit below). It’s the details in each of these pieces that make a simple ensemble stand out.

Style Notes: A cosy striped jumper with wide-leg trousers and sneaks seems like the perfect weekend look.

Style Notes: A neat Breton cardigan under a blazer? Very Coco Chanel.

This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

Next Up, Autumn/Winter 2021 Trends: The Only Fashion Looks You Need to Know

Author Hannah Almassi | Whowhatwear
Selected by CWC