The Marinière Styled 3 Ways: A French Staple I’ll Always Love
The striped top that never goes out of style and three ways I’ll always wear it! Shop the looks here!
A French Classic with Styling Power
If there’s one piece that instantly says French girl style, it’s the Breton striped top, also known as the marinière. It started as a French naval uniform back in the 1800s (très official), but over the decades, it made its way from sea to street and eventually into fashion history!
It was Coco Chanel who first brought the marinière into her collections, and since then, it’s been worn by just about every French icon, from Brigitte Bardot to Jane Birkin. And honestly? I get it. It’s structured but soft, bold but neutral, and so easy to style without feeling like you tried too hard!
Why I Always Come Back to It
I have a little collection of marinières in my wardrobe, different stripe widths, sleeve lengths, slightly different cuts and I find myself reaching for one multiple times a week. It’s the piece I throw on when I want to feel a little more put-together without overthinking anything.
Whether it’s with denim, linen, or layered under something, the striped top always works. It’s dependable, polished, and makes even the simplest outfit feel intentional.
Still a Style Icon
The Breton top isn’t just timeless, it’s trending again! Recently, Vogue UK features it as a seasonal must-have, calling out its reappearance on the runways of Chanel, Miu Miu, and Proenza Schouler. Proof that even in a sea of trends, the marinière is still the cool girl in the room!
The Lookbook: 3 Ways I’m Wearing It Right Now
Look 1: Casual Chic
The pairing:
A classic navy-and-white marinière, worn with high-waisted straight-leg jeans and white canvas sneakers for that lived-in, weekend-in-Paris feel.
Accessories:
Square neck scarf – A subtle pop of color and a touch of vintage. I like to tie mine around my neck or loop it through a basket or purse to add a little ‘je ne sais quoi’!
Neutral leather crossbody bag – I always go for something structured here. It elevates the look and balances out the softness of the top.
Pearl drop earrings – Feminine, timeless, and they instantly make the outfit feel more intentional.
Gold watch + dainty bracelet stack – Clean, classic, and functional. A small styling moment that goes a long way.
Tortoiseshell sunglasses – For that effortlessly polished finish with a hint of mystery.
Why I love it:
It’s my forever go-to. No matter the day or season, this combo just works. The contrast of dark denim and crisp stripes is always fresh, and the accessories keep it classic but never boring.
Look 2: Light & Layered
The pairing:
Layered under a crisp oversized white button-down or draped over the shoulders, this marinière feels fresh and modern. I styled it with light-wash jeans and brown leather sandals to keep things warm and soft.
Accessories:
Woven market tote – Adds texture and makes me feel like I’m heading to pick up peonies and a baguette (even if I’m just going to Trader Joe’s).
Oval sunglasses – I love how structured yet subtle they are clean lines that echo the top's stripe pattern.
Leather watch + mixed gold rings – These little touches help polish the outfit without making it feel overdone.
Minimal makeup + rosy blush – I like to keep the beauty look light here so the outfit stays the focus.
Why I love it:
The layering gives this classic top a new twist. It’s the perfect in-between look for days when it’s not cold but not quite warm, and the neutrals feel effortless but styled.
Look 3: Elevated Neutrals
The pairing:
Striped top tucked into ivory high-waisted linen trousers, with white leather strappy sandals and golden-hour accessories.
Accessories:
Gold petal drop earrings – The shape is sculptural but still delicate, and they catch the light in the prettiest way.
Woven structured tote – Adds a grounded, organic feel to the look. It’s neutral but full of texture.
Delicate gold chain necklace + timepiece – Adds just enough shine to balance the linen. I like to stack with a couple of bangles when I’m feeling extra.
A touch of bronzer + pinky nude lip – Soft, sun-kissed, and perfect with the warm tones of this outfit.
Why I love it:
This is the look I’d wear for a lunch date, casual meetings, or even travel days when I want to be comfortable and put-together. It feels elevated but never fussy, which is basically my ideal combo.
The marinière is one of those forever pieces. No matter the year, the weather, or what’s trending on TikTok, it always feels right. It’s easy, polished, and somehow always makes me feel a little more French even here in California!
I hope these looks give you ideas on how to style yours, or maybe inspire you to finally add one to your wardrobe. Trust me, it’ll be one of your most-worn pieces too!
With Amour,
M.