Stripes are as much of a surefire trend on spring runways as florals, but with brands like Jil Sander giving them a black-tie twist, Marc Jacobs infusing them with color, Matthew Williamson melding them with contrasting prints, and designers like Miuccia Prada being so enthralled with them that she worked them into fur, the naval-inspired trend has taken on a slew of interesting new twists.
The perfect S/S alternative to F/W’s military trend, stripes can be worked from head-to-toe with print dresses or worked into a look with individual striped pieces, striped-accented separates, or accessories – just remember to keep all non-striped garments and accessories in solid hues or risk visual overload.
When experimenting with the print, don’t feel like you have to limit yourself to the classic Breton stripes (even Michelle Obama is feeling color this season when it comes to stripes!); try on stripes going in vertical, horizontal, as well as slanted directions, and opt for pieces with various stripe widths and distances between the individual stripes. For those looking to work the trend in more subtle proportions, handbags, shoes, hats, swimsuits, even sunglasses can be great vehicles for doing just that, as long as you don’t do it all at once.
For some stripe-y inspiration check-out this video from Prada and shop some options below.
1. Jonathan Saunders Varndell Twill Midi Skirt, $905
2. Marc by Marc Jacobs Multi Stripe Silk Dress, $685
3. Moschino Read Between The Lines Striped Silk T-shirt, $630
4. Tsumori Chisato Paw Stripe Tee, $176
5. Milly Block Island Stripe Triangle Bikini Top, $100
6. Milly Block Island Stripe Bikini Briefs, $100
7. Prada Striped Top Handle Tote, $1,395
8. Jil Sander Striped Pleat-Back Maxt Dress, $2,445
9. Matthew Williamson Escape Printer Jersey Max Dress, $675
10. Boy by Band of Outsiders Striped Mesh Polo, $495
11. Sonia by Sonia Rykiel Multi Way Bracelet, $340.67
