If the fashion world were to hold a contest to select the 101 most timeless fashion items , I think the striped shirt would definitely take center stage ! That's right, stripes are a classic among classics . Despite their seemingly simple lines, they can create unique looks by pairing with different colors and materials !

640px * 957px jpg

Actually, the history of stripes is much longer than you or I imagine. As early as the 1920s, American artist Gerald Murphy noticed the fashionable flair of sailors' naval shirts and incorporated the stripe element into fashion . It became an instant worldwide sensation ! Even now, while we might skip dresses in summer , a striped shirt is indispensable . More slimming than a T-shirt and more stylish than a blouse, it has become an essential part of the summer look!

The "Three Elders" of the Striped World

Stripes are like a big dye vat, putting everything into them. So when we mention stripes, we always feel that they are too complicated. But if we talk about them in detail, the stripes commonly used in fashion today can be divided into three categories: black and white stripes, blue and white stripes, and red and white stripes . They can be said to be the "three elders" of the stripe world !

NO.1: Black and white stripes

Black and white stripes are arguably the most classic stripe pattern and the most frequently seen element in striped shirts . Black and white striped shirts tend to lean towards a more professional and intellectual look , often used in the shirts of working women . If you're tired of wearing boring white shirts, why not try a black and white striped shirt paired with high-waisted trousers for a more stylish look !

Beyond the classic vertical stripes, designers are also combining black and white stripes with animal prints , such as zebra print items that have been a favorite among fashionistas in recent years . Not long ago, supermodel Kendall Jenner was spotted on the street wearing a zebra print top, showcasing a wild and edgy look!

NO.2: Blue and white stripes

Blue and white stripes are synonymous with freshness and elegance in the world of stripes , especially in summer items where they frequently appear. This striped pattern often combines light blue and pure white, creating a refreshing and airy feel reminiscent of blue skies and white clouds , making it an absolute must-have item for summer outings.

The biggest difference between blue and white striped shirts and black and white striped shirts is that blue and white striped shirts are more varied and have a greater sense of design . For example, the off-shoulder striped shirt chosen by European and American fashion bloggers uses irregular cuts and puff sleeves to break away from the monotony of traditional black and white striped shirts . Paired with jeans, it can become the focus of attention.

NO.3: Red and white stripes

Like blue and white stripes, red and white stripes are a common element in summer clothing. Compared to the two stripes mentioned above, the charm of red and white stripes lies in their higher color saturation , which can brighten the wearer's skin tone . At the same time, the combination with white balances simplicity and extravagance , making them especially suitable for women who are hesitant to wear bright red or pure red clothing .

In addition, red and white stripes have a touch of playfulness that black and white stripes and blue and white stripes lack, making them more suitable for everyday wear by young women in their twenties . Even a simple striped top paired with basic denim shorts can create a youthful and cute effect!

N ways to style a striped shirt

Having discussed the three basic color schemes for striped shirts, we also know that stripes can be broadly categorized by thickness and whether they are horizontal or vertical . But did you know that different stripe styles actually have certain requirements regarding body shape ? Choosing the wrong style can easily make you look heavier!

NO.1: Horizontal and vertical stripes

Many women have probably heard the saying that vertical stripes make you look slimmer, while horizontal stripes make you look heavier , and there's actually a scientific basis for this . Even stripes of the same width, if one is placed vertically and the other horizontally, it creates a visual illusion, making the vertical stripes appear slimmer. This phenomenon was discovered as early as 1867 by the German scientist Helmholtz and is known as the Helmholtz square illusion .

Therefore, slightly chubby girls, especially those with a fuller bust , and petite girls should pay attention when choosing striped shirts. It is best to choose vertical stripes rather than horizontal stripes , as this can avoid "horizontal expansion" and create a visual effect , making you look taller and slimmer !

NO.2: Thick stripes and thin stripes

We just assumed that vertical stripes are more slimming than horizontal stripes when the stripe width is the same. So what happens when the widths are different? If you look closely at thick and thin stripes, you'll find that the thinner the stripes, the fewer the gaps between them , which gives a feeling of tightening and makes the person look more capable .

The spacing between thick stripes, or what can be called negative space, creates a sense of expansion , making one appear heavier . Therefore, women who are not very slim or have an apple-shaped figure should be careful and choose items with thin stripes instead of thick stripes .

NO.3: Pop Stripes

Many people think that stripes are only divided into a few categories: thick and thin, horizontal and vertical. In fact, with the changing fashion trends, pop stripes are becoming increasingly popular among trendsetters . Pop art is an art form that originated in Britain in the 1950s. It is mainly characterized by irregularity, strong visual impact, and bright colors.

Pop stripes boldly use three or more colors in a striking contrast . The stripes are not are often irregular. This type of stripe breaks through traditional constraints and gives striped shirts a fresh vitality with bright color contrasts . At the same time, it uses visual differences to achieve a perfect slimming effect.

Striped shirts meet basic items

As we all know, the biggest advantage of stripes is their versatility . So today I'm going to teach you how to take versatility to the extreme : pair striped shirts with various basic items in your wardrobe , such as skinny jeans, denim jeans, etc., so you can achieve a high-quality, minimalist style at a lower cost!

LOOK 1: Striped shirt + black skinny jeans

Black skinny jeans are a versatile item that transcends age, gender, and occasion. Pairing them with a simple black and white striped shirt avoids looking too boring while maintaining a fresh and casual feel . Adding a beige coat and white sneakers completes the most everyday and universally flattering outfit.

For girls whose leg shape isn't perfect , I definitely recommend these slightly flared black skinny jeans . The flared leg opening effectively conceals various leg types, including X-shaped legs, O-shaped legs, and muscular legs . Pair them with an oversized blue and white striped shirt, tucking in the hem for a relaxed yet trendy look !

LOOK 2: Striped shirt + jeans

Alongside black skinny jeans, the most versatile trousers are denim jeans, which we never get tired of wearing. Almost everyone's jeans are blue , so when pairing them, it's best to choose a blue and white striped shirt . This will create a more harmonious and unified look , making you appear cleaner and more elegant .

Pear-shaped girls should ditch the tight-fitting jeans and opt for this year's must-have dad jeans . The straight-leg cut provides ample room for comfort and won't feel restrictive. Whether you have thick thighs or calves, they'll hide it all ! Pair them with a boyfriend-style blue and white striped shirt for a super slimming effect!

LOOK 3: Striped shirt + A-line skirt

Whether it's skinny black pants or jeans, they still have certain requirements regarding the proportions and body shape of the lower body. If you want to achieve a more slimming effect , you still need to look at A-line skirts . Women with wide hips and large waists definitely need this high-waisted A-line skirt . Pair it with a black and white striped top for a classic black and white look that exudes sophistication !

Girls with a fuller lower body can also try this solid-color A-line skirt . The nine-point length perfectly shows off our slimmest ankle curves . Pair it with a pair of stilettos for an instant slimming effect of 5 pounds ! If you're commuting or attending a more formal occasion , then pairing it with a striped shirt with a lapel design is definitely the right choice!

After reviewing so many different styles, colors, and cuts of striped shirts with everyone, I truly believe that striped shirts are undeniably a treasure trove of fashion items. Whether it's for commuting to work or going shopping or on a date , you can't go wrong wearing them ! Which striped shirt do you like, and how do you style it? Feel free to leave a comment and share your styling tips~