We’re going to start looking at patterns and prints in terms of the style facets they each represent. Since we’re in the dead of winter let’s bring in some cheer by starting with that most quintessential of summer patterns, stripes!
Stripes were not always representative of the sunniest of times or circumstances. In medieval times stripes were worn only by harlots, harlequins, and hangmen, not to 
mention prisoners. (And more recently prisoners in war camps.) And there are glorious images of stripe-robed sultans from the ancient Middle East. But in the mid 19th century Queen Victoria decided to dress her son Albert Edward in a striped sailor top as they set out on their royal yacht. Thus was born the association we carry in our collective memory between stripes and the sea.
In 1858 the French Navy made the pattern standard issue for all their sailors in Brittany in the form of what is now known as the Bretton shirt. The pattern had a practical purpose in that it made the sailors more visible on the sea. But the striped tee assumed status as a classic fashion piece in 1917 when Coco Chanel introduced her nautical collection, based on that Bretton shirt.
Today those narrow symmetrical navy blue and white stripes conjure up images in which we see ourselves by the sea, the lakeshore, or in some Mediterranean idyll, basking in the easy warmth of the summer sun. In their symmetry and modesty stripes are perfect expression of the Classic style.
But of course, fashion is not static – otherwise it wouldn’t be considered “fashion.” So for better or for worse this season stripes have taken off in a new direction with a bolder life of their own, reimagined by many of today’s designers. Let’s look at a couple of them.
In the “better” Category is this lovely green and white chiffon from Stella 
McCartney. Stella’s style is a combination of Classical and Youthful. If it weren’t for the stripes, this dress would read more as Romantic. Alexander Wang has created a tough street version of stripes in this bomber jacket and blue striped leather pants for someone with a lot of the Natural style type plus a touch of Drama. 
And Ralph Lauren has juxtaposed a very Classic tailored look from the waist up with an Angelic floaty white skirt. (Interesting, but frankly I’m not sure it works unless that blouse is the softest silk…and even then…)
Finally there’s Tommy Hilfiger whose characteristic bright palette is seen here in a very flirty High-Spirited and Youthful combination.
But for those of us with a good deal of the Classic style type in our features and personality the Bretton tee will do just fine, thank you. And even if you don’t have a lot of the classic style, Classics work for just about everyone as witnessed in these lovely examples.
Do you know what your style facets are?
Take the quiz and find out in my book here: Shopping for the Real You. 
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