Typically dismissed as a winter-style trend, or more commonly, as a byproduct of the androgynous fashion movement, pinstripes are often underestimated.
While pinstriped suits, in navy, grey or monochrome hues may indeed be menswear-inspired, and can look extraordinarily powerful on women, not everyone has the confidence to carry off a bold, head-to-toe striped look.
And though I’m usually a proponent of mixing different prints together, there’s something so beautifully bold about pinstripes, that another pattern could just tarnish the look. Striped separates, therefore, will be my main focus here.
Because striped shirts are already so common, I urge you to widen your style horizon and look past these. Find a cool tunic or shirtdress that’s pinstriped instead, and pair it with a pair of frayed-hem-jeans. Or, pick out a 1950s-inspired shirtdress, complete with a collared button-down front and fabric belt tie.
Personally, I find thin, light stripes to be preferable to bold block stripes, though the latter will appeal to those looking to take a more eye-catching approach with the pattern.
Another option is a pinstriped blazer – but not a fitted one. Instead, look for a boyfriend cut, ideally with fitted shoulders and a below-your-bottom length. When paired with skinny trousers and a graphic T-shirt, the look can be enviably sleek.
When shopping for striped trousers, look beyond the typical cuts and instead seek out culottes and ultra-wide legs. Pick up a pair in summer-ready shades, such as beige, red or pink, rather than expected monochrome tones.
While you may be hesitant to pair your pinstriped trousers with trainers such as Adidas Superstars, which also feature stripes, you’re overthinking it. As long as your top is a solid shade, I assure you, the shoes will look fine.
hlodi@thenational.ae
