Nothing screams summer quite like patterned shirts. Bold prints, floral motifs, and tropical designs are a usual sight in summer street style looks. But let's be honest, not everyone is into flashy patterns – especially the minimalists among us. So, what timeless pattern can seamlessly slip into a minimalist wardrobe? The answer is simple: Breton stripes. Striped t-shirts are understated, subtle, and elegant, adding a touch of pattern to your summer outfits without screaming for attention. But how to style a striped t-shirt properly? In our summer style guide for men, we’ve got three fitting looks for you – and the perfect striped t-shirts to make every outfit a guaranteed hit.
Breton stripes, alongside paisley and checks like houndstooth and gingham, are among the most timeless patterns in fashion history. While some of these patterns can sometimes look a tad old-fashioned, Breton stripes maintain a modern, timeless charm that's both classic and elegant. Therefore, a striped t-shirt is a summer must-have for anyone looking to add a dash of maritime flair to their otherwise minimalist looks. First, though, you need to find the perfect striped t-shirt.
The Striped T-Shirts from SANVT
Our new striped t-shirts from SANVT take inspiration from the traditional French fisherman's shirt and are made ethically in Portugal from 100% certified organic cotton. The specially developed 235 g/m² navy-and-white striped fabric features an innovative knit structure that ensures breathability and thermoregulation – despite the heavy fabric. The contrasting neckline boasts a bound collar with a twin-needle stitch for added durability. Plus, our anti-pilling wash treatment prevents the fibres from roughening with frequent wear and washing. The combination of a minimalist silhouette and the classic Breton stripes creates a timeless design, making SANVT’s striped t-shirts the perfect addition to your minimalist, summer wardrobe.
But if you usually stick to plain basics, you might be wondering: how to style a striped t-shirt properly?
Quiet Luxury
For an elegant look with neutral tones that’s perfect for cooler summer days and warm summer evenings, pair a long-sleeve striped t-shirt with a pair of ivory chinos. Add white sneakers and the perfect canvas bag in navy to create an effortlessly cool, minimalist summer outfit with a nautical flair. The light coloured chinos offer a summery look with a hint of quiet luxury, making this outfit ideal for holidays and semi-formal occasions.
Ahoy, Sailor!
If you want to dive deeper into the maritime character of Breton stripes, combine the striped t-shirt with a pair of navy chinos. This makes navy the red thread of your summer outfit (pun intended). Throw on some simple white sneakers, and you’ve got an uncomplicated look with a French twist á la Jean Paul Gaultier.
Beach Boy
Few combinations encapsulate the essence of beach vibes as much as a striped t-shirt paired with chino shorts. For an easy summer look that still shields you from the occasional sea breeze, wear a long-sleeve striped t-shirt with navy chino shorts and white sneakers. If the temperature rises and you want to crank up the summer vibes, go for a striped t-shirt with olive green chino shorts and Birkenstocks. Add a minimalist pair of sunglasses and a neutral tote bag, and you’re all set for any summer escapade.
How to Style a Striped T-Shirt: Final Thoughts
As you can see, styling a striped t-shirt is just as easy as styling a plain one. That’s what we love about Breton stripes – they're timeless, minimalist, and easy to pair with other basics despite their pattern. Depending on how you style our striped t-shirts from SANVT, you can achieve elegant, maritime, or playful looks. In any case, though, they remain summery, light and understated. Oh and by the way, the navy stripes also pair perfectly with denim: our long-sleeve striped t-shirt with our perfect jeans in washed blue creates a casual look that can carry you through not just the summer holidays, but through the entire year.
Find more holiday essentials in our Style Guide for Summer 2024.