No piece embodies French style quite like the classic striped shirt. Synonymous with Parisian chic, it effortlessly combines simplicity and sophistication, making it a timeless wardrobe essential. Often referred to as Breton top, its origins date back to the 19th century when it was worn by French sailors, but it quickly became a symbol of the relaxed, yet refined, French aesthetic.
What makes this wardrobe staple so French is its practicality and the way it allows the wearer to look put-together without trying too hard. The stripes evoke a sense of casual confidence, embodying the art of je ne sais quoi—a certain something that makes it look like you’ve put zero effort into your look, while actually being perfectly styled.
From Coco Chanel to Brigitte Bardot, French fashion icons have long embraced the striped shirt as the ultimate symbol of understated, yet unmistakably chic, style. Whether you're in Paris or not, adding this piece to your closet is a surefire way to channel your inner Frenchwoman.