In an era where street style often gravitates towards bold and unconventional looks, a surprising trend has emerged for 2025. Instead of neon hair or oversized silhouettes, fashion enthusiasts are embracing simplicity with striped tees. Vogue's Alice Newbold noted last September that understated street style is the new pinnacle of fashion. This year, the classic Breton top is making a significant return, updated with modern twists. Originating from Brittany, France, this iconic garment was initially designed for naval uniforms in 1858 before becoming a symbol of Parisian elegance thanks to Coco Chanel. Despite its association with coastal visits by royalty, the Breton stripe has been refreshed for contemporary fashion.
The Timeless Appeal of Stripes
Striped tees have long been a wardrobe staple, celebrated for their versatility and timeless charm. Initially introduced for navy personnel in 1858, the Breton top gained popularity when Coco Chanel incorporated it into her collection in 1917. Since then, it has become synonymous with elegant French fashion. However, recent years saw its appeal wane due to associations with formal royal outings. Now, designers like Miu Miu are breathing new life into stripes by experimenting with unexpected color combinations such as burgundy and ivory, and orange and red. The result is a fresh take on a classic piece that appeals to both fashion insiders and casual wearers alike.
Modern interpretations of the Breton top emphasize innovation in both design and color. Thinner stripes and boxy silhouettes have become popular choices, as seen in Rabanne’s spring/summer 2025 collection. Proenza Schouler also embraced asymmetrical shapes and thin stripes in camel and navy. London-based designer Talia Byre has particularly succeeded in redefining stripes. She explains, "We find the most flattering way to work with stripes is on the bias, guiding the eye diagonally across the body." Her approach combines nostalgia with a contemporary twist, using twisted shoulders and layered details to create unique pieces that resonate with today's fashion-forward audience.
Contemporary Reimaginations of a Classic Style
Designers are finding innovative ways to reinvent the humble striped tee, making it a standout piece in 2025. Brands like Miu Miu and Rabanne have introduced unconventional color pairings and asymmetrical cuts, giving stripes a modern edge. For instance, Miu Miu's use of burgundy and ivory, and pale blue and cream, adds a sophisticated touch to traditional patterns. Rabanne’s spring/summer 2025 lineup featured boxy striped tees, while Proenza Schouler opted for asymmetric designs with thin stripes. These updates not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also make the garments more versatile and stylish.
Talia Byre, a London-based designer, has been pivotal in reviving interest in stripes. She emphasizes diagonal striping to guide the eye across the body, creating a flattering silhouette. Her collections feature playful elements like twisted shoulders and layered details, blending childhood nostalgia with a fresh perspective. Vogue's Charlotte Rutter and senior shopping writer Alice Cary praise Byre's designs for introducing vibrant colors and interesting details. Cary shares her experience wearing Byre’s rugby top as a dress and her long-sleeve top paired with a fitted jacket, highlighting how these pieces add a chic twist to everyday outfits. The success of Byre’s autumn/winter 2025 collection further underscores the effectiveness of her approach, proving that subtle tweaks can transform a simple T-shirt into a fashion statement.