How to Style a Breton Stripe Shirt

Rethinking an American interpretation of the French striped shirt

I worked with Kristina Staal Photography for this Breton-inspired mini-shoot in Rowayton, Connecticut. I haven’t been to Rhode Island since January, so I was so happy that Kristina had recommended meeting in this part of Fairfield County!

Despite the fog, the weather couldn’t have been more perfect for how I wanted the photos to turn out. It reminded me a lot of coastal Rhode Island, as well as my recent trip to Brittany, France earlier this spring.

A striped shirt, a red scarf, black ballerina flats, and skinny, khaki pants—that’s the typical outfit that Americans may think of when they think of what French women wear.

In reality, French women—Parisiennes in particular—are much more creative with their personal style. They love accessorizing with colorful accents. They do prefer basics, normally impeccably tailored. If they wear one color, they like to combine different textures to elevate an otherwise “flat” looking outfit. Never compromise on the quality of footwear, even if they’re only basic white sneakers.

I’m not going to lie—the outfit in this blog post isn’t something that I would recommend wearing outside of the Brittany region of France. Why? Because it reads “I’m a tourist in France” and that’s glaringly obvious to French people, especially pickpockets on the Paris metro…

However, this French-inspired outfit is perfect for lazy Sundays in New England. It’s a comfortable and an infinitely more chic alternative to baggy sweatpants and an oversized fleece pullover.

Outfit Details

Armor lux Breton-striped shirt (made with Fairtrade cotton)

Everlane Boyfriend Jeans (similar style)

BOCAGE INNOVATION black leather loafers

BCBG Max Azria silk scarf

Longchamp Le Pliage large tote bag

A special thank to Kristina Staal Photography for these amazing photos! The proceeds of this mini-shoot went to Kristina and her husband’s adoption fundraiser.