Few fashion staples offer the versatility and effortless style of a striped shirt. Whether it’s a classic white-and-blue combo or a bold, multicolored pattern, striped shirts have stood the test of time across both men’s and women’s fashion. Their adaptability makes them suitable for formal, casual, and even street-style looks. In this blog, we’ll explore how to style striped shirts, which patterns to choose, and how to incorporate them into your everyday wardrobe—whether you're dressing up for the office or planning a casual weekend brunch.
The striped shirt dates back to nautical uniforms and later became a hallmark of French fashion. Today, it’s seen everywhere from fashion runways to Instagram feeds. The charm of stripes lies in their simplicity. They’re eye-catching without being overwhelming and can be styled in dozens of ways. From the classic vertical striped shirt to bold horizontal or pinstripe patterns, there’s something for everyone. Not to mention, striped shirts offer visual benefits too—vertical stripes can elongate your silhouette, making you look taller and slimmer.
Styling the Striped Shirt: Men’s Fashion Guide
1. Striped Shirt for Office Wear
For a polished and professional look, opt for a light blue striped shirt paired with tailored trousers and a blazer. This combo gives off a clean and refined aesthetic. Tuck in your shirt, wear a leather belt, and finish the look with oxford shoes. For a more relaxed office vibe, skip the blazer and roll up your sleeves.
2. Casual Street Style
Go for a vertical striped shirt in bold colors like navy, red, or green. Pair it with jeans or chinos and wear it open over a plain white tee for a relaxed vibe. Sneakers and sunglasses will complete this effortless street-style outfit.
3. Layering Game
Layering a striped shirt under a denim jacket or bomber adds dimension to your outfit. Try layering a black and white striped shirt under a solid cardigan during colder months. It’s a great way to keep warm while staying stylish.
Striped Shirt Outfit Ideas for Women
1. The Parisian Chic Look
Channel French fashion with a white and black striped shirt, tucked into high-waisted jeans. Add a red lip, a sleek bun, and a crossbody bag for a touch of elegance. Ballet flats or loafers will tie the look together beautifully.
2. Office-Ready Attire
A striped shirt for office looks sophisticated when paired with a pencil skirt or tailored trousers. Choose a fitted style for a more structured appearance, and accessorize with delicate jewelry and a tote bag.
3. Weekend Casual
For a relaxed weekend look, try an oversized striped button-up shirt over denim shorts or leggings. Add chunky sneakers or sandals and a backpack. This combo offers comfort without sacrificing style.
4. Layering with Dresses
Yes, you can wear a striped shirt under a spaghetti-strap dress! This trendy layering technique adds a retro vibe while keeping things modest and playful.
Choosing the Right Stripes for Your Body Type
Not all stripes are created equal. Here’s a quick guide to choosing the right striped shirt based on your body type:
Vertical Stripes: These are great for elongating the body. Ideal for shorter individuals or those looking to create a slimmer silhouette.
Horizontal Stripes: These can add volume and are best for those who want to broaden their frame slightly.
Thin Stripes (Pinstripes): These are subtle and ideal for formal or office wear.
Bold, Wide Stripes: Make a statement and are better suited for casual settings or fashion-forward looks.
Seasonal Tips: Striped Shirt Fashion Year-Round
Spring/Summer: Lightweight cotton or linen striped shirts work well in warmer weather. Roll up the sleeves, pair with shorts or light chinos, and add loafers or espadrilles for a breezy summer vibe.
Fall/Winter: Opt for striped shirts in deeper tones like burgundy, navy, or forest green. Layer under sweaters, coats, or scarves. Wool-blend or thicker cotton shirts provide both warmth and texture.
Accessories to Pair with a Striped Shirt
The beauty of a striped shirt is its ability to pair well with almost any accessory. Here are a few ideas:
Necklaces: A layered gold chain or a pendant adds elegance to women’s striped shirt outfits.
Watches: A sleek leather or metal-banded watch complements both men’s and women’s styles.
Hats: Fedoras, beanies, or caps can add personality, depending on the look you’re going for.
Footwear: Loafers, white sneakers, boots, or sandals all go well, depending on the outfit context.
Striped Shirt Fashion Mistakes to Avoid
Too Many Patterns: Avoid pairing stripes with other loud patterns unless you're experienced in mixing prints.
Poor Fit: Make sure your shirt fits well. Baggy shirts can look sloppy unless that’s the style you’re aiming for.
Low-Quality Fabric: A good striped shirt should hold its shape and not look worn out after a few washes. Invest in quality materials.
Where to Buy the Best Striped Shirts
You can find great options at brands like Zara, H&M, Uniqlo, and Mango. For premium or designer choices, explore Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, or Brooks Brothers. Don’t overlook local or sustainable brands—they often offer unique designs and better fabric quality.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're heading to a boardroom meeting or grabbing coffee with friends, a striped shirt is your go-to piece for polished style. Its versatility, classic appeal, and ease of styling make it a must-have in any modern wardrobe. From vertical striped shirts that flatter every body type to breezy oversized fits perfect for weekends, there's a striped shirt for everyone. So, the next time you’re unsure of what to wear, reach for that striped shirt in your closet—you’ll never go wrong.