I rarely come across a wardrobe that doesn’t contain at least one Breton top (often several). Classic items become classics for a reason and the Breton top has been part of that fraternity since it’s introduction to French navy seamen in the mid 1800s. Everyone from Bridget Bardot, Coco Chanel, Audrey Hepburn and Alexa Chung have adopted this alluring staple as their own. It may be humble, but it has enduring appeal and is more versatile than you might think.
ME&EM adopted the nautical look as one of their signature pieces.
The pink houndstooth blazer teamed with chinos and tan loafers gives this classic look a fresh appeal. It will take you lots of places.
You’ll be hard pushed to find anyone who does the Breton look better than Inez de la Fressange. Teamed here with a sequinned jacket, jeans and flat ballet pumps, she sums up the epitome of Gallic elegance.
For a relaxed, tom-boy look, throw it on with a coat over jeans and trainers.
Layer your Breton with a slouchy shirt jacket, shorts and flat sandals for that effortless summer look. The addition of a leopard print clutch keeps the outfit relaxed but also stylish.
The unexpected pairing of a Breton long sleeve top with a satin ball gown skirt provides a young and flirty evening look.
Inject some fashion edge by experimenting with different textures and clashing prints as shown here in an earlier J. Crew campaign. The Breton stripe can hold its own with bold partnering.
Every girl likes a bit of sequin. Try teaming a simple Breton Tee with a sequinned skirt and strappy heels.
The perfect pairing of two classic wardrobe staples.
Denim dungarees and platform shoes with your favourite long sleeve Breton top make a great weekend look.
