All Aboard!

Sail Away, Sail Away...

In 1917, Coco Chanel first introduced the feminine striped French-style tee coined "la marinière." Designers have since then proposed their own versions, and spring 2010 makes no exception. Women all over the world have adopted this chic, iconic look, and designers started re-creating the stripes in different cuts for their runway looks, making from the "marinière" one of the most important trends in the fashion industry. The style is fun, simple, dynamic and pretty non-conformist. It's a classic, timeless style, using functional pieces that no matter the fashion era they will always be trendy. Make sure not to wear more than one single item sailor style at a time. You don't want to end up looking like ole popeye here...





How do I wear sailor stripes?



Although there are a few rules to obey when sporting this style, basically you can play with different shades and accessories to create your own personal style. Stripes represent the key element that will always distinguish this trend from the others. The original sailor-inspired shirt has blue and white stripes, but throughout the years more options became available in colors, from black and red striped -- to more even more colorful, modern interpretations. The advantage of the "marinière" is that it can be androgynous, feminine or masculine depending on your personal style.







My Tip:

For a casual look, wear this sailor t-shirt with a pair of dark washed skinny jeans. Throw on some ballet flats or gladiator sandals.





Aubin & Wills Pearton Tee $80



White cotton-blend ribbed T-shirt with red horizontal stripes, long sleeves, a scoop neck with a red trim, and a diagonal striped panel.





My Tip:
For a boho look, pair this striped mini-skirt with a fabulous pair of denim heels, retro sunglasses and a postal bag.



Top Shop



Navy ruffled short-sleeved shirt $11
White skirt with blue and red strips along hem $35





My Tip:

For a flirty style, slip on this sailor-inspired dress, and pair with some brightly colored heels or bag.

Marc by Marc Jacobs $298



Two-piece denim shift with a sweetheart neckline and short-sleeved navy/white striped scoop neck tee. Wide belted waist.





My tip:

For a trendy look, this tunic can be perfectly matched with a pair of leggings and a simple scarf tied in your hair, for a Bridgitte Bardot-esque style.



Angel T-Shirt$35



Longer length soft cotton white burnout tee with anchor and angel wing detail on front and back.





My Tip:

If you are looking for a touch of sailor style without sporting the stripes, try one of these cool accessories that will add a little "ahoy" to any outfit.

Luella Stevie Tote $700



This nautical inspired tote is dressed in a pinstripe design coat, accessorized with the heart & anchor shaped charms and thick bronze hardware.





Lulu's Half Sugar Eva $23



Navy blue and white striped heel, with red leather bow detail.

I jumped aboard to design a few sailor-inspired pieces, and added my own spin!


Gold chain necklace with gold anchor pendant on white plastic platform.

Shredded denim bracelets and cuff, one with gold wrapped chain and gold helm charm detail.

Final Tip:

Remember horizontal stripes tend to widen the body. Boat shape necklines trimmed with large bows are great for pear shaped figures. Wide legged pants with sailor button fronts, work best on tall, lean bodies - they are NOT "every body's" friend!