As you know from our High Street Trends page, stripes have gotten a modern make-over this summer and can be found in colourful and big n’ bold vertical, diagonal amd horizontal prints. 

The classic Breton stripe does, however, remain a part of the nautical trend and is a timeless style staple that is a must have for every wardrobe. We’re adding it to June’s capsule wardrobe.

Breton stripes like this one from Boutique by Jaeger look great paired down with jeans but also with the capsule pieces that we’ve already featured for this season. It’ll look chic with your white blazer or team with your wide leg trousers or pleated skirt for a more Parisian flair.

The Breton look works best with a slightly looser fit. Narrow stripes suit more petite frames with smaller busts.  If you are fuller figured or large busted stick to slightly looser yet body-skimming styles with medium stripes. You could try one of the darker base options or try a design with a combination of stripes and a single block of colour (with the blocking hitting the area of your body you want to draw focus away from).

Don’t forget Breton tops that have gradiants of stripe size – a wider stripe across the bust and a narrower one at the torso to draw focus upwards and away from your tummy, for example.

Also consider the neckline. Most Bretons are slash or high-necked but think about a square or scoop neckline if you need to open up a little more to flatter a bigger bust.

Whatever stripes you choose for spring/summer 2011 be it Breton or bold color-pops, keep accessories to a minimum and let the stripes do all the work. Très Bien.

Boutique by Jaeger Breton T-shirt

 Sizes XS-L

 £55

 John Lewis

Report by Sharon Tyler