THE BROWNED SHIRT, THE ESSENTIAL FRENCH PRINT
The Breton striped shirt, an iconic garment of French fashion, embodies both elegance and maritime history. Originating in the 19th century, it was adopted by French sailors. Initially used as a safety measure, the stripes were designed to facilitate the location of sailors who had fallen overboard, and they also allowed them to be distinguished from foreign sailors. These sailors wore long-sleeved shirts with 21 blue and white stripes.
The democratization of the Breton striped shirt in fashion:
The history of vintage fashion is full of innovations and revivals, but few trends have stood the test of time as successfully as the French Breton stripe. This iconic garment owes much of its fame to the renowned designer Coco Chanel.
In 1913, during a stay on the Normandy coast, Gabrielle Chanel was inspired by the outfits of local fishermen and decided to incorporate this motif into her collection. By adding the Breton striped shirt to her collection, Coco Chanel captured the essence of her time and offered a garment that resonated with women's aspirations. The Breton striped shirt thus became a symbol of emancipation and freedom, allowing women to adopt a more relaxed style without sacrificing elegance. Coco Chanel's popularization of the Breton striped shirt also had a significant impact on society; by making this garment accessible, the designer conveyed a powerful message: "It is not necessary to follow traditional dress codes to be chic and refined."
Jean-Paul Gaultier also played a crucial role in popularizing the Breton striped shirt. Known for incorporating the traditional Breton stripe into his 1980s designs, his famous collaboration with singer Madonna for her Blond Ambition tour in 1990 also contributed to the Breton stripe's global appeal.
For decades, the Breton striped shirt has held an iconic place in French and international fashion. This garment has undergone numerous transformations over the years. Today, it's a symbol of vintage fashion, synonymous with elegance and casual style. Its horizontal stripes add a touch of originality to outfits while maintaining a classic and timeless look.
Our Featured Pieces of the Moment:
To pay homage to this famous vintage pattern, we regularly incorporate it into our selections. The Breton stripe top pairs perfectly with summer outfits.
But Gaultier isn't the only one to showcase this motif. Burberry is also a big fan, as you can see on our silk shirt reimagined by the famous London brand.
