With Bretons, seersucker, and all manners of horizontal lines dominating the racks this summer, it’s no understatement that stripes are starting get a little trite. But, that doesn’t mean that something fresh isn’t on the horizon–we’ve got some ideas on how to shop for stripes without falling back on nautical and French themes. This guide has got all the charm of the old ways, but with a couple of twists that are brand spankin’ new (just the way we like it!).
All Cut Up—Patchwork stripes add movement and take normally stuffy styles to a new level that’s thoroughly eclectic. In this case, the busier the better—trust us. Above, from left: Free People Lookbook July ’11, image via Free People; ASOS Twist & Tango Mix Stripe Drawstring Waist Dress, $65.51, available at ASOS; Style Stalker Stripe T Layer Dress, $83, available at Pixie Market.
Block Party—Exaggerated, elongated colorblock is a great way to sport stripes without getting lost in the crowd. Plus, you’ll find thick portions of bold, bright colors that stand out from the crowd of black, blue and white.
Above, from left: Splendid Different Degrees Maxi Dress, $178, available at Anthropologie; Whistles Holly Linen Stripe Sweater, $137.91, available at ASOS; ADAM Colorblock Long Halter Dress, $395, available at Shopbop.
Textural Healing—Never take a trend too literally. Stripes become subtle and understatedly chic when you go for a pattern that’s made of textures instead of varying colors. Plus, this fits in great with the latest monotone trend!
Above, from left: MikkatMarket Lace Ruffle Top, $35, available at Mikkat Market; Topshop High Neck Stripe Tank, $30, available at Topshop; Rag & Bone Stretch-cotton Maxi Dress, $195, available at Net-A-Porter.
Go Long&mdash:Vertical stripes have long been the direction of choice for referees (and pretty much only them), but we have a feeling that the top-to-bottom stripe will make its return. Get in on the trend early with these three options.
Above, from left: Lark & Wolff by Steven Alan Vertical Stripe Dress $39.99, available at Urban Outfitters; Victoria’s Secret Oversized Tank Top, $44, available at Victoria’s Secret; 3.1 Phillip Lim Striped Roll Sleeve Dress, $279, available at Bird.
BubblesPop 