Summer Basic: Brilliant Bretons Part I

Well, yes as the title suggests,  I have been busy browsing Breton stripes over the past couple of days.  My eyes have become somewhat dazzled by all the stripes, both vertical and horizontal, but it has definitely been worth it. There are so many gorgeous stripes out there I found it pretty difficult to edit them down but I have managed to (to an extent, if I'm honest I keep spotting more...) and have lots of lovely ones to share with you from luxe to middle ground to bargain buys.

Let's dive straight in (that's always my mantra - life's too short to dillydally!)

Top Row to Bottom Row, Left to Right:
Top: MINT VELVET TEE £29; H&M Sweater £13; M&S Technology Tee £13
MiddleMINT VELVET Navy Tee £29;MINT VELVET Boat Neck Knit £39; RIVER ISLAND Linen V-Neck £10
Bottom: M&S Top £25; JCREW Long Sleeve Tee £45; MANGO 3/4 Sleeve Sweatshirt £17.99

Breton tops are a great basic piece to have in your wardrobe, particularly when the seasons are changing or Spring can't decide if it's here to stay, as here in the UK at the moment.  Above I have selected jersey or fine-knit pieces all of which would complement blue, black or white denim pieces or khaki cargoes; and some of which would look smart enough to wear to the office.

On with more - there were so many available I couldn't just edit down to 9! Here goes (warning you may need sunglasses, and a large glass of wine if it's past 6 o'clock!)

Top Row to Bottom Row, Left to Right
Top:Oasis compact kimono top £38; NAF NAF zip back top £28; WAREHOUSE drop sleeve £20
Middle: MARKS&SPENCER ribbon detail sweater £29.50; IRIS&INK Clemence cotton top£45; CURRENT/ELLIOTT sweatshirt £50
Bottom: SEE by CHLOE cotton & linen top £105.75 (was £235);IRIS&INK Lola cashmere sweater £87 (was £ 145); BODEN Long sleeve Breton £18.75

I really like the ones with the extra detail such as the ribbons down the back of the M&S one and the back zip on the NAF NAF top.  However, the CHLOE top caught my eye as it looks so gorgeous with its contrasting panels - I know it's quite expensive at £105.75 (was £235) but I also know it's a quality piece that will look great with casual or smart outfits and will last for years to come.  Plus The Outnet has some fab discounted designer pieces currently.
Well, Breton stripes certainly won't be going out of fashion any time soon; they have been a staple in wardrobes since Coco Chanel spotted them on the backs of Breton sailors in the early 20th century and haven't left since; and with so many variations  on the theme available in our stores now,there is something to please all shapes, sizes and budgets.

Here are some inspiring pics to show some ways to wear your stripes....

Parisian chic done sooo well-Breton stripes with black jeans and a pop of red - WhatOliviaDid

Loving this Breton and shirt combo from Pinterest 

Miranda Kerr looking fab in her stripes and khaki trousers

Breton stripes and white denim, not to mention those divine shoes

Honeybelleworld looking gorgeous in stripes and culottes.

Okay, so that's the tops done.  Look out for Part II in a couple of days which will show some more stripey picks - shirts, dresses and even some shoes.  Prepare yourself for some more nautical staples to freshen up your wardrobe - Part II will follow on Wednesday.  Sign up to receive it directly to your Inbox!

'Til then,

Sue