Fashion icon: the Breton stripe shirt aka the “Marinière.”

Fashion icon: the Breton stripe shirt aka the “Marinière.” NO, THIS IS NOT A STRIPED T-SHIRT. This is not a striped t-shirt. THIS IS NOT SOMETHING YOU BUY FROM J.CREW OR TUCKER NUCK OR H&M. MARINIÈRE. THIS WAS NOT DESIGNED BY A FASHION DESIGNER. BY THE FRENCH GOVERNMENT. Ever since 1858, it's been the official undershirt for the French Navy. The stripes aren't cute. They make it easier to spot a man overboard. Of course, Coco Chanel borrowed it after the First World War. She made it the official uniform of France. It's adorable, but I see so many people wearing it wrong. Not all striped shirts are Breton stripe. That floppy little striped tea from H&M. It'll be a dish rag soon. A real Breton is structured with a boat neck and three quarter sleeves, making it easier to wear under a peacoat. Frankly, I think that's the silhouette that's most chic. You don't want to wear it skin tight. You want it to stand away from the body a bit. The biggest mistake is paying too much for your Breton striped tee. Don't buy designer when you could buy from the original manufacturers. Armor Lux or Saint James. Your choice. Don't buy a designer collab. They're silly if you just buy one. Buy the Saint James. How to accessorize it anyway, except with a beret. Looks darling with a Barbour jacket, jeans or white denim. And personally, I prefer a ivory rather than blinding white. You can even find used versions online. And if you love the stripe, still want to wear it in winter, a sweater version. Very chic. Anyway, darling, I hope this helped.