If there's one wardrobe staple to invest in right now, it's a blue and white striped shirt. Timeless, effortless and achingly chic, it's one of those rare versatile pieces that works just as well for the office as it does the beach. And the fact that it makes its way back onto the high street year after year only proves its endless appeal. If that's not proof it deserves MVP status, I don't know what would.
Like its Breton-striped cousin, the blue and white striped shirt is a true wear with anything hero. Try it with wide leg jeans for an easy everyday look, while breezy linen trousers - especially coordinating - are great for warmer days. Layer it over a cami dress for a relaxed feel or with Bermuda shorts for a smart summer style. Talk about the MVP of your wardrobe.
- Linen editor's pick: H&M Linen Striped Shirt, £37.99 / $49.99
- Cotton editor's pick: Friends Like These Cotton Poplin Striped Shirt, £34
- Luxury editor's pick: WNU The Boyfriend Shirt, £130 / $250
You'll find them in a range of fabrics too. Linen and cotton are the most obvious, but crisp poplin, silk or satin are just as wearable.
How to wear a blue & white striped shirt now
You’ll see them all over Instagram, artfully worn with a white poplin prairie skirt or worn oversized, over a classic white tee, loose with white wide leg jeans.
© Karwai TangAnother way to wear is with matching pyjama style trousers or 'boxer' shorts in co-ordinating stripes. It keeps the whole look casual - just add a white tank underneath and a pair of suede thong leather sandals.
If you’re still not convinced, let Meghan Markle’s now timeless 2018 Wimbledon look tip the scales in its favour. The royal’s now iconic striped Ralph Lauren shirt, worn with white wide-leg trousers and cream accessories, was the perfect example of effortless chic.
The best part about this trend is the affordability factor. You can pick up a blue and white striped shirt for as little as £10 / $20, allowing you to invest as little – or as much – as you want into the look. But remember, this isn’t just a wear now, store later piece – it’s your secret wardrobe weapon.
How I chose the best blue & white striped shirts for women
- Design: Naturally, these shirts are all blue and white striped, with stripes varying from pinstripe to thick, chunky stripes.
- Style: Oversized, fitted, poplin, linen – the edit includes striped shirts in varying styles, so you’re sure to find a striped shirt that suits your style.
- Price: I’ve tried to keep this edit affordable, and included a range of price points. If your budget means you can spend more, there’s pricier options too.
The best blue and white shirts to shop this season
1/7
H&M Linen Striped Shirt
© H&MEditor's Note:
The big, wide stripes of this shirt are just like Meghan's, and it's made from a linen mix so will keep you cool on those hot, sunny days.
2/7
Friends Like These Blue Stripe Poplin Shirt
© NextEditor's note:
With its casual fit and mid-blue stripe, this shirt bridges the smart and relaxed gap. Wear with tailored cream trousers for the office or over your swimwear for the beach.
3/7
WNU The Boyfriend Shirt
© WNUEditor's Note:
With Nothing Underneath has leaned into the classic pinstripe shirt with this linen version. This is the one to wear on a hot summer's day, as the material will keep you nice and cool.
4/7
Boden The New Siene Striped Shirt
© BodenEditor's Note:
Crafted from crisp cotton with a flattering curved back hem and classic collar, Boden has cornered the market on timeless, traditional shirts with this one.
5/7
New Look Striped Shirt
© New LookEditor's Note:
Pop this woven, lightweight shirt with jeans or wide leg trousers for a fresh, breezy style.
6/7
Lilysilk The Amalfi Stripe Silk Shirt
© LilysilkEditor's Note:
A silk version is just as chic, like this regular fit shirt from lilysilk.
7/7
Scamp & Dude Striped Shirt
© Scamp & DudeEditor's Note:
Scamp & Dude's sweet cotton shirt features short sleeves and the cutest scallop edging.
