How to wear stripes: 4 simple outfit ideas that are comfortable and classic

(Image credit: M&S)

There are so many ways to style stripes that you’re sure to find what fits your figure best.

When it comes to prints, there’s nothing as classic and timeless as a stripe. Different colours, shapes, and directions… the possibilities for stripes are almost endless.

If you’re feeling edgy and want to jazz up a simple outfit, you can choose a bold coloured striped top or skirt; go for an all stripe look in different widths and shapes or take it to the next level mixing prints. Think a ditsy floral or tropical print with stripes – but just make sure they have at least one similar colour and the proportions work well together.

On the other hand, if minimalism is more of your thing, you can still put together cool striped outfits that are far from boring. Instead of bold and bright colours you can opt for subtle stripes in maybe a sleeve or a hem detail, or even an elegant pinstripe blazer with statement accessories.

We know that having plenty of choices can be quite overwhelming so if you’re feeling a bit stuck and need some inspiration, scroll down to find some ideas...

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H&M Jersey T-shirt

H&M Jersey T-shirt

£3.00, H&M

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Boden Portia Skirt - Conker And Azelea Multistripe

Boden Portia Skirt - Conker And Azelea Multistripe

from £85 to £59.50, Boden

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Zara Pleated Bucket Bag

Zara Pleated Bucket Bag

£19.99, Zara

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Zara Soft Leather Ballerinas

Zara Soft Leather Ballerinas

from £29.99 to £19.99, Zara

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Joggers + monochrome blazer

Joggers + monochrome blazer

Jogger style trousers are perfect for weekend wear. Team up with a monochrome blazer and leopard print trainers for a smarter yet modern look.

Monochrome Striped Textured Blazer

(Image credit: StyleShoots)

Monochrome Striped Textured Blazer

£22, Tu Clothing

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H&M Ribbed jersey top

H&M Ribbed jersey top

£9.99, H&M

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New look Khaki Drawstring Waist Textured Joggers

New look Khaki Drawstring Waist Textured Joggers

£17.99, New look

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Joules Coast Pump Faux Leather Trainer

Joules Coast Pump Faux Leather Trainer

from £39.95 to £19.95, Joules

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Blouse + chinos

Blouse + chinos

Add a pop of colour and a couple of inches with heeled chunky sandals and play with different textures with a mock croc bag.

Blue & White Striped Top

Blue & White Striped Top

£24, Next

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M&S Collection Pure Cotton Tapered Ankle Grazer Chinos

M&S Collection Pure Cotton Tapered Ankle Grazer Chinos

£19.50, M&S

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Zara Animal Print Midi Tote Bag

Zara Animal Print Midi Tote Bag

from £19.99 to £9.99, Zara

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George Rust Suede Leather Chunky Sandals

George Rust Suede Leather Chunky Sandals

£22.50, George at Asda

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Maxi dress + trainers

Maxi dress + trainers

A maxi lightweight dress is an easy and hassle free option for sunny days. Drop earrings and khaki trainers complement the look. Add a bold coloured bag to brighten up your outfit.

JUNAROSE Stripe Maxi Dress

JUNAROSE Stripe Maxi Dress

£45, Tu Clothing

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New Look Petite Blue Boxy Denim Jacket

New Look Petite Blue Boxy Denim Jacket

£25.99, New Look

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Matalan Glitter Paper Stick Drop Earrings

Matalan Glitter Paper Stick Drop Earrings

£4, Matalan

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Matalan Khaki Lace Up Espadrille Trainers

Matalan Khaki Lace Up Espadrille Trainers

£14, Matalan

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Manuela Rio Tinto
Freelance Fashion and Lifestyle Writer

Manuela Rio Tinto is a freelance fashion and lifestyle writer with experience in both short and long-form articles, as well as copywriting. Brazilian, she moved to London six years ago and since then has worked for brands like Woman & Home, Woman’s Own, Chat, Selfridges and Karen Millen, to name a few. Passionate about all things culture, travel and scuba diving-related, you’ll find her either reading, travelling or diving in her spare time.