Breton tops are a staple that never goes out of style—I know this to be true given how prevalent they have been in the capsule wardrobes of celebrities, fashion icons and content creators over the years. Widely considered a classic item, there’s definitely a comfort that comes with knowing that it can be thrown on in a whim and knowing that it’ll look chic, regardless of what you pair it with. That said, although it’s pretty much as timeless as clothing gets, there are moments where the Breton top’s popularity surges and the style becomes noticeably more current. Now is one such moment.
Everywhere I look right now, I see Breton stripes. The way people are wearing them, however, is so varied, more so than I've seen before, and it is giving me a renewed sense of inspiration on how to style the piece (which hails from France so you know its chic) myself.
Over the years, the Breton top was predominantly paired with white or blue jeans for a polished nautical look but current styling now goes beyond that. The fashion firm are wearing the design with everything from A-line midi skirts and chunky loafers to wide--leg trousers and slingback heels for evening flair, which is refreshing.
Now, you may already own a Breton stripe top and you don't need to invest in a new one to unlock some fresh looks this season. However, if you’re in the market for a new style, there are numerous iterations to choose from.
Breton tops vary in neckline, sleeve length, cuts, fabric and even the stripe itself. While they commonly feature a horizontal motif, the thickness and colour combination is where you can play around. A slim stripe is always a popular choice, but I am also a fan of block stripes for a bold take on the look. Traditionally, Breton tops feature navy or black and white palette, but colourful options may inspire those seeking a modern twist on the piece (more on that in a moment).
I’ve already attested that the Breton top is known for its versatility, but you need only think about all the things you’ll wear it with to know this is true. It pairs just as well with jeans—whether they’re barrel leg, wide leg, straight leg or ankle grazers— as it does tailored trousers and midi skirts. For a casual take, picture it under a pair of dungarees or styled with linen shorts. As for your top half, try layering it under a blazer or knitted vest—that or go it alone! Needless to say, whatever your style, you'll come to rely on your Breton top more than you may think.
If you still need convincing, keep scrolling for a selection of chic Breton top outfit ideas to inspire you.
6 Chic Breton Top Outfit Ideas to Try
1. Breton Top + Tailored Trousers + Birkenstocks
Style Notes: Breton tops don't need to be limited to long sleeve crew neck tops—short sleeve versions are ideal for the summer months. Pair with wide-leg tailored trousers for a comfortable yet classy everyday look. As far as footwear is concerned, style with trainers now or a pair of trusty sandals when temperatures soar.
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In terms of comfort, there's nothing better than a boxy T-shirt that skims the body rather than clings to it, especially on a balmy August day. While I live in my block colours year in and year out, a Breton version is a welcome alternative to inject some fun into the simplest of outfits.
Wide-leg trousers are a versatile garment to wear for almost any occasion—and season for that matter. The pleated detail adds volume and allows trouser to drape elegantly down your leg.
When you invest in a pair of classic Birkenstock sandals, trust me when I say you'll never look back. Every spring and summer this footwear style is everywhere, which is unsurprising because the sandals complement any look and are incredibly comfortable.
Handbags are not only practical to house all your valuables, but they are the ultimate finishing touch to any outfit. While this bag may look small, it is spacious; simply unfasten the side poppers to make more room inside.
2. Breton Top + White Trousers + Court Shoes + Trench Coat
Style Notes: Dressing for the transitional seasons may seem difficult, but a long sleeve Breton top makes the perfect base you can layer items on top of, so you are warm and look stylish. One pairing we are particularly fond of is a nautical striped top with white trousers (or jeans), to brighten up an outfit.
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An easy way to make your smart tailored trousers more wearable for everyday, Everlane's Mariner Top, which boasts a subtle boat neck, dropped shoulder and boxy fit is just the right balance between looking put together yet casual.
A pair of wide leg white trousers never misses when it comes to looking elegant. Pair with trainers, sandals, pumps or heels, depending on the occasion.
Ballet flats are all the rage and have been for some time. Why not level up the popular footwear item with a heeled pair.
A blue trench coat will make your look feel fresh whilst still tapping into a timeless cover-up style.
3. Breton Top + Linen Trousers + Flip Flops
Style Notes: Breton tops—otherwise known as marinière—were a core part of the uniform for the French navy in the mid-19th century, so it's unsurprising the trend loans itself to breezy coastal styling. With this in mind, it looks the part with linen trousers and worn over swimwear to channel the trend's nautical roots.
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The loose fit of this Breton is also ideal if you're planning to slip it on after a day at the beach and can't stand the feeling of tight clothes on top of sand glued onto the skin with sun cream.
Swap your jeans for a comfortable pair of breathable linen trousers for the summer months. The lightweight fabric works beautifully with the wide leg and relaxed nature of these trousers.
Embrace the casual look with a pair of thong sandals. Perfect for weekend brunches, picnics in the park and idle days at the beach this summer, these Reformation sandals are more elevated than your poolside flip flops thanks to their leather finish.
Amp up the classic feel of your look with cat-eye sunglasses—Prada's Symbole pair were made for jetting off to the French Riviera this summer.
4. Breton Top + Midi Skirt + Leather Jacket + Sandals
Style Notes: Yes, they look great with jeans, but Breton tops also work with full skirts. This combination is inherently polished-looking but, if you want to make the preppy ensemble look edgier, style with a biker jacket.
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I get so many of my basic tops from H&M—this one is next on my wish list.
Full circle skirts are very much a thing this season—this cotton style is all I want to wear from now until autumn.
I know I said a trench coat is a timeless outerwear staple, but so is a leather jacket. If you're looking for a jacket to see you through every season, this biker style delivers in abundance.
Those who struggle to keep their feet in a pair of flip flops when pounding the pavements, these are the sandals for you. In fact, our editors are big fan's of A.Emery's iconic Jalen sandals.
5. Breton Top + Blazer + Wide Leg Jeans + Loafers
Style notes: You'd be forgiven if you thought Breton striped tops solely came in navy and white—consider a coloured design to shake up the status quo. Whichever catches your eye, team with a pair of wide-leg jeans and loafers for an easy outfit that never misses the mark.
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This particular Breton top comes in 13 (yes, 13) colours. The dropped shoulder, crew neckline and balloon sleeves achieve a relaxed finish and offers ultimate comfort.
Wide-leg jeans have dominated the fashion scene in recent years—Frame's jeans are low rise, but you can cinch them up higher with a belt for a paperbag waist effect.
Another versatile item has to be loafers. Suitable for the office and a casual weekend outing alike, wear with socks or go barefoo—the choice is yours.
For days you want to feel comfortable but still want to look put together in your relaxed ensemble, dress your look up with a blazer. It's simple but incredibly effective.
6. Breton Top + Barrel-Leg Jeans + Pointed-Toe Heels + Trench Coat
Style notes: Breton tops might be the ideal casual throw-on but they can play the elevated part, too. Team the basic with on-trend barrel-leg jeans and a pair of slingback heels to take your outfit from day to night. If you want to look even more sophisticated, or you're apprehending an evening chill, then layer a trench coat over top.
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A lightweight trench coat is the ideal solution for the spring and summer months when you don't want to wear a weighty jacket but can't go out sans coat either. Joseph's creation is less structured than the classic trench coat, and offers a relaxed fit thanks to the wide sleeves and lightweight cotton blend fabric, which is also water-resistant.
To make your Breton top evening appropriate, I recommend opting for a thicker fabric that will hold its shape and conceal any creases after wearing it to the office or during your downtime.
The formula for barrel-leg jeans includes a high-rise waist, loose fit in the legs (almost balloon-like) and a hemline that falls just above the ankle—Jigsaw's Kensington jeans tick all those boxes.
Slingback heels are one of the biggest trends of the season—use them to dress up everything from jeans to leggings.
This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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