Stripes make regular appearances on the catwalks and collections year after year, but something about this season’s designs feels fresher. From blue and white Breton stripes to multi-coloured banded maxi dresses, these looks are well-defined bold lines, and whether you go for a maxi dress or a shoulder bag they should be worn with cool confidence.
Don’t believe that stripes aren’t flattering either; loose fitting dresses, separates and jackets, skim off shoulders and hips. These stripes don’t cling to your shape they merely highlight your angles. They’re easier to wear than you think; team vertical-print trousers with horizontal striped tops, and plain white or black outerwear plus complementing pieces. Mix up your stripes with accessories in neutral leather, bright patents, and top off the look with luscious red lips.
So stripes are a must have for your wardrobe right now, but which to wear? Follow our guide to stripes and find our all you need to know about this timeless style.
Choose monochromes with a twist
This Marble jumper fuses a classic blue and white stripe with a chic gold band across the centre of the bodice and the arms, breaking up the pattern and adding an elegant additional colour to the palette. Team with a gold midi skirt to bring the look together. The Andrew Yu midi-length culottes feature a more relaxed stripe print and embrace the season’s hottest trouser shape. Team with a block colour fitted top – preferably in vibrant pink or orange.
Jump to it
Who wants to worry about separates? We know how much you love a jumpsuit and these two from Tiana B (pictured) won’t fail to impress. On the left the stripes feature on an eternally flattering faux-wrap bodice, which has a stylish tie-waist finishing touch to draw the eye down the body. The lower half is again in that on-trend culottes shape, a style that suits both flats and heels echoing the versatility of this all-in-one. The jumpsuit on the left also has a striped bodice and block colour trousers, the addition of the floral print on the bodice and the longer leg length makes this jumpsuit ideal for special occasions. Both however, give the illusion of a considered, put together look with no decision making!
Dressed in stripes
Wearing stripes head-to-toe can seem a bit daunting but these three dress styles showcase just how versatile this trend can be; from neutral ombre shades and clean monochrome lines to multi-tonal designs and from maxi to mini there is a dress with your name on it. From left – right: Ronni Nicole’s monochrome tunic dress features pockets that are almost hidden in amongst the stripes. MarlaWynne’s sleeveless maxi dress will look fantastic teamed with a leather biker jacket and ankle boots for those chillier days, while this fitted ‘O So Slim’ dress with tie detailing, teamed with gold statement jewellery, will show off your style know how on a night out with the girls.
Stripes on your sleeve
Take inspiration from the classic Breton top and wear your strips above the waistline. Necklines have free-reign; sleeves can be any length just make sure you add a lot of colour to your print. Teamed with plain white jeans these three bright tops will create versatile, wearable daytime looks. From left – right: Diane Gilman’s V-neckline top has just three stripes but they’re bold and remind us of a Letterman Sweater from a US high school (ours would so have an R for Rydell). The pretty white and pale-mandarin shade of this C Wonder striped top make a delicious stripe combination and the subtle print offers something unique. The Logo by Lori Goldstein ombre top can be dressed up and down and worn throughout the seasons making it one of the most versatile pieces you could add to your wardrobe right now.
Punchy ponchos and banded bags
If you’re still not convinced (like how?) then the easiest and most succinct way of adding stripes to your look is with layers and accessories. The MarlaWynne poncho is simple and has a slight ombre design, mixing up various grey and black tones – be brave and wear with a pair of vibrant fitted jeans. The In Cashmere poncho can we worn as a gorgeously comfy outer layer, its polo neckline and 3/4 sleeves mean you can wear it across all seasons too.
From luggage and overnight bags to messengers, and clutches our range of striped bags is both practical and stylish.
Clockwise from top left: A two piece Highbury weekend luggage set means you can arrive at your destination in style, while Lulu Guinness’ pouch will add an abstract stripe design to an LBD look. This crochet purse from Le Sak offers a subtle nod to the trend, while Kipling go all out with this fantastically colourful striped cross-body bag. The choice is yours.
Now your stripes lesson’s over, don’t get given lines! Do your fashion homework and get some stripes into your wardrobe.
For even more info on how to wear stripes, watch QVC Style stylist Katie Powell explain it all.
See ya soon!
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