Somewhere back there, stripes got a really bad rap.

The whole jail uniform for one, then there were unsavory rumors that stripes make people look fat…you get the picture! Well…I am hear to share some exciting news, you can kick those rumors to the curb because stripes are the sh*t! 🙂

Want to channel your inner French savant? Brenton stripes. You want to dabble in menswear? A pinstripe button up. You want to exude all-American appeal? A cotton striped anything. Stripes are truly an essential every woman should have hanging in her closet, in multiples. I find myself wearing them from day to night and in weekday meetings and lazy weekend brunches. They are truly an essential part of my everyday wardrobe.

That being said, all stripes are not created equal, and so trying different styles, fabrics, widths and cuts are an essential part of finding a style that feels like you. Here are 3 helpful hacks to help you read between the lines on your pursuits for the perfect stripes to add to your wardrobe:

#1. Thick or Thin?

Thinner stripes are a safe bet. They have a slimming and elongating effect when worn vertically, ie. a men’s suit shirt. Love rocking an oversized version of this with the sleeves rolled up and a yummy gold watch. Thin horizontal stripes are also a classic option, think brenton stripes a la Audrey Hepburn. Thicker stripes can be cute, but I tend to stick to vertical lines or an asymmetrical element with this kind of stripe so the lines aren’t running straight across my body.

#2. Shop the Mens Section

Mens pinstripe shirts, oversized stripe cotton T’s and sweaters are one of the best kept secrets of shopping stripes! They have just the right amount of an oversized feel to them and look great tucked in or tied at the waist, with the sleeves rolled up or down just to name a few options. Plus, did I mention they have one thing every girl loves…OPTIONS! 🙂

#3. Choose Fabrics Wisely

When purchasing classics like a striped shirt, I always invest a little bit more to splurge on a quality piece. Stripes are something I can wear a lot of ways and so I tend to spring for something that will withstand a lot of washing and wearing. I love shopping sales at Banana Republic, but also love heading to second hand shops like My Sister’s Closet for more affordable designer options or to spend a lazy Saturday scouring the men’s racks at Goodwill for my latest dapper discoveries!

Check out some fun and affordable options I found below including some fun off the shoulder, and ruffled options that add a fun twist to one of my favorite classics! I would love to hear about your favorite way to style stripes, so don’t be shy and drop a comment below!

xx,
Jess