Get Nautical

Sailor stripes are one of fashion's most iconic looks. Here's how to wear them.

Coco Chanel first introduced the sailor-look for women in France all the way back in 1917, and since then, it's never really gone out of fashion, with designers reinventing the stripe practically every season. Stripes are easy to fall in love with, but remember to always choose them according to the shape of your body. The way clothes look has a lot to do with optical illusion: Traditionally, horizontal stripes have a classical feel, but you should avoid them if you are big-breasted or have a bit of a belly. The same thing applies if you have a big bum or wide thighs. But, if your shape is straight and boyish, horizontal stripes will make you look curvier and more feminine.

Vertical stripes have the power to elongate your silhouette, while vertically striped skirts, shorts and trousers make your legs look longer, which ultimately makes you look taller than you actually are. As for the size of the stripes, smaller or thinner stripes are more elegant and make you look slimmer, while wider stripes can broaden the silhouette. The success of the sailor look ultimately boils down to the colour and style of the stripes. Black and white stripes are a timeless classic, while the blue and the white are more about a retro sailor look. If you choose colours like red, pink or yellow, be careful not to overdo it as you could end up looking like a Christmas tree. So, if you opt for a simple T-shirt with red and white stripes, match it with a solid bottom, such as a plain white or red skirt, shorts or pants.

Tips For Wearing Stripes:
• Stripes can be worn with accessories, but keep them simple. Big, chunky bracelets, cocktail rings or necklaces in a matching colour are your best options.

• Do not mix colours. If you choose to wear blue stripes, forget about that purple bag. Rather, choose a white, navy, black or even a red bag to compliment the colour of the stripes.

• If you're choosing to go for a subtle sailor-look, opt for a striped bag, but then be sure to pair it with a plain outfit and avoid other prints such as flowers or animal prints.

• Stripes are busy, so don't overdo them. One stripey item is enough.

• If you want to look classically French, opt for blue stripes against a white background.

Author: Chanelle Carelse