Chic, Timeless and Looks Great With Jeans—This Anti-Trend Top Has Replaced My White Tees

The classic Breton top has been around for decades, and it's not going anywhere any time soon. Here are six outfits to try to make it feel fresh now.

best breton tops
(Image credit: taffymsipa/ _ceciliekrog/ maimy_pea)

Breton tops are a staple that never goes out of style—I know this to be true given how prevalent they have been in the capsule wardrobes of celebrities, fashion icons and content creators over the years. Widely considered a classic item, there’s definitely a comfort that comes with knowing that it can be thrown on in an whim and knowing that it’ll look chic, regardless of what you pair it with. That said, although it’s pretty much as timeless as clothing gets, there are moments where the Breton top’s popularity surges and the style becomes noticeably more current. Now is one such moment.

Everywhere I look right now, I see Breton stripes. The way people are wearing them, however, is so varied, more so than I've seen before, and it is giving me a renewed sense of inspiration on how to style the piece (which hails from France so you know its chic) myself.

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(Image credit: @hannamw)

Now, you may already own a Breton stripe top and you don't need to invest in a new one to unlock some fresh looks this season. However, if you’re in the market for a new style, there are numerous iterations to choose from.

Breton tops vary in neckline, sleeve length, cuts, fabric and even the stripe itself. While they commonly feature a horizontal motif, the thickness and colour combination is where you can play around. A slim stripe is always a popular choice, but I am also a fan of block stripes for a bold take on the look. Traditionally, Breton tops feature navy or black and white palette, but colourful options may inspire those seeking a modern twist on the piece (more on that in a moment).

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(Image credit: @emmanuellek_)

I’ve already attested that the Breton top is known for its versatility, but you need only think about all the things you’ll wear it with to know this is true. It pairs just as well with jeans—whether they’re barrel leg, wide leg, straight leg or ankle grazers— as it does tailored trousers and midi skirts. For a casual take, picture it under a pair of dungarees or styled with linen shorts. As for your top half, try layering it under a blazer or knitted vest—that or go it alone! Needless to say, whatever your style, you'll come to rely on your Breton top more than you may think.

If you still need convincing, keep scrolling for a selection of chic Breton top outfit ideas to inspire you.

6 Chic Breton Top Outfit Ideas to Try

1. Breton Top + Tailored Trousers + Birkenstocks

breton top outfit ideas

(Image credit: taffymsipa)

Style Notes: Breton tops don't need to be limited to long sleeve crew neck tops—short sleeve versions are ideal for the summer months. Pair with wide-leg tailored trousers for a comfortable yet classy everyday look. As far as footwear is concerned, style with trainers now or a pair of trusty sandals when temperatures soar.

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2. Breton Top + White Trousers + Court Shoes + Trench Coat

breton top outfit ideas

(Image credit: maimy_pea)

Style Notes: Dressing for the transitional seasons may seem difficult, but a long sleeve Breton top makes the perfect base you can layer items on top of, so you are warm and look stylish. One pairing we are particularly fond of is a nautical striped top with white trousers (or jeans), to brighten up an outfit.

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3. Breton Top + Linen Trousers + Flip Flops

breton top outfit ideas

(Image credit: _ceciliekrog)

Style Notes: Breton tops—otherwise known as marinière—were a core part of the uniform for the French navy in the mid-19th century, so it's unsurprising the trend loans itself to breezy coastal styling. With this in mind, it looks the part with linen trousers and worn over swimwear to channel the trend's nautical roots.

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4. Breton Top + Midi Skirt + Leather Jacket + Sandals

breton top outfit ideas

(Image credit: ruerodier)

Style Notes: Yes, they look great with jeans, but Breton tops also work with full skirts. This combination is inherently polished-looking but, if you want to make the preppy ensemble look edgier, style with a biker jacket.

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5. Breton Top + Blazer + Wide Leg Jeans + Loafers

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(Image credit: lucywilliams)

Style notes: You'd be forgiven if you thought Breton striped tops solely came in navy and white—consider a coloured design to shake up the status quo. Whichever catches your eye, team with a pair of wide-leg jeans and loafers for an easy outfit that never misses the mark.

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6. Breton Top + Barrel-Leg Jeans + Pointed-Toe Heels + Trench Coat

breton top outfit ideas

(Image credit: anoukyve)

Style notes: Breton tops might be the ideal casual throw-on but they can play the elevated part, too. Team the basic with on-trend barrel-leg jeans and a pair of slingback heels to take your outfit from day to night. If you want to look even more sophisticated, or you're apprehending an evening chill, then layer a trench coat over top.

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This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

Maisie Bovingdon is a Freelance Journalist with over a decade of editorial experience, covering e-commerce, as well as fashion, beauty, health and travel features for leading publications such as  Who What Wear, The Telegraph, Marie Claire, Woman & Home, Hello!, Glamour, Refinery29, Independent, and Evening Standard, among other titles. Throughout her career, she has interviewed an array of experts, including leading dermatologists, trichologists, doctors, stylists, brand founders, and multiple celebrities.  Alongside her editorial projects, Maisie has also worked on copywriting projects for leading beauty brands, including L’Oréal Paris and Mason Pearson.When she’s not researching the latest fashion and beauty trends, or scouting unmissable deals, Maisie is often exploring, and testing, solutions for Trichotillomania, which she has experienced first-hand for over 15 years, and aims to help others battling hair and beauty concerns.If you can prize her away from her busy work schedule, Maisie can be found enjoying long muddy walks around Hampstead Heath with her family and friends, or venturing further afield to witness the best sunrises and sunsets around the world.