How to Wear Stripes : 7 Tips + 53 of the Best Styles

Written by Julie Weinstein

By now, we’re sure you know how deep our love runs for stripes. Hands down, it’s the print you see most on Wear + Where + Well. There’s just something about this classic, yet totally modern, pattern that works no matter the season, the event, or the mood. So, you can imagine our grins when we saw that J.Crew decided to implement a #nationalstripesday (as Carrie mentioned in yesterday’s post). Yes, really! It’s almost like they read our minds. In fact, when I saw it on the J.Crew site I immediately emailed Carrie about it. Lo and behold, she already knew about it, and as she said, it’s a hashtag holiday we can certainly get behind. And so we have.

How to Wear Stripes

When it comes to wearing stripes, there might not necessarily be any set rules (it’s been quite a while since there have last been rules in fashion, right?), but there are some tips and pointers when wearing this beloved print.

1. Think thin

When it comes to more form fitting pieces (dresses, skirts, etc.), thinner stripes will typically be more flattering.

2. Veer vertical on bottom

In terms of pants, it’s best to stick to vertical stripes if you’re on the shorter side (like me!), as horizontal on your bottom half can make you appear wider than you are, and vertical stripes will be elongating (solely referring to pants here, not skirts – horizontal stripes on skirts, at all heights, work well).

3. Mix it up

Don’t be afraid of mixing widths. A wider, horizontal striped top paired with a wide leg thinner striped pair of pants is certainly a chic look. As well, mixing horizontal and vertical on top and bottom is a great option, too.

4. Live Colorfully

Colorful stripes are always a good idea. Don’t be shy when it comes to color. In our book, the more color the better.

5. Diversify 

Stripes mixed with other prints, such as florals and geometric, lends itself to a fun, slightly unexpected look.

6. Give the eye a break

We’re all about wearing a monochromatic striped look, but if you’re going for striped bottoms with a striped top, stick to a solid (or printed, but not striped) pair of shoes and bag. Stripes on stripes is one thing, but stripes on stripes on stripes on stripes is another.

7. Start small

If you’re not totally and completely feeling stripes (it’s ok, we’ll forgive you!), you can add them into your wardrobe by way of accessories, jewelry, and even shoes.

Street Style

We’re not the only ones who love stripes. Truly, stripes could be the most popular print out there. Over the years, it’s become much less nautical and much more everyday wear. Stripes are versatile, stylish, and timeless. They can be dressed up or down, and worn a multitude of ways. See below for some of our favorite striped street style looks.

How Carrie Wears Stripes

I adore Carrie’s striped looks. I love how she dresses stripes up and down, with color and without, mixing and matching with prints and other stripes along the way. It was really hard for me to pick a favorite striped look of hers, so I chose eight!

 

Original posts (from left to right) : You’ll Want This Perfectly Sweet Striped Bow Sweater / Denim and Stripes : A Perfect Look for a Colorful Party / Try the Trend : Mixing Prints / A Perfectly Comfortable, Casual All American Look / Unique Shirting and Our Love of Stripes / Colorful Stripes : Why We Love Them & Where to Get Them / Hurry to Pick Up This J.Crew Ruffle Top on Sale / Stripes on Stripes : 3 Tips for Mixing Stripes

How You Can Wear Stripes

Now, a shortage of stripes is something there is not. All our favorite retailers and websites are stocked full of beautiful striped pieces, so below you’ll find 53 of the best items out there. Many are from J.Crew (where we always think to go first for stripes, of course), and there’s certainly something for every style, so keep on scrolling.

One More Thing

Alright, I’m turning it over to you now. Let me know in the comments below which of Carrie’s striped looks is your favorite and what striped piece you’re eyeing from above. Personally, I’m thinking of adding this top and this dress (ok and probably this tee, too!) to my spring wardrobe. Have a great rest of your Friday, and be sure to check back this afternoon for Carrie’s weekend edition.

 

Photos of Carrie by Maritere Rice; Street style photos borrowed from Tommy Ton / Collage Vintage / Fashion Trends / Luv to Look / Style Du Monde / Jessakae