The Striped Shirt Roundup: An Option for Every Day of the Week

As far as versatility of cut is concerned, this three-quarter length sleeve tee is one I’d recommend to everyone from my grandma to my little sister. It’s described as bust-friendly and middle-friendly because the fit is relaxed without being baggy. It doesn’t feel tight, but it won’t drown your figure and manages to look polished no matter what you pair it with. I wore mine with jeans but I also plan to wear it with fitted pants for a business casual outfit because even though it’s technically a t-shirt, the heft of the fabric makes it more substantial than your average tee. It’s thicker than most of the other fabrics in this roundup and the 100% pima cotton is pajama soft before even a single wash cycle thanks to extra-long fibers (produced in a female-run factory) that create a long-lasting, luxurious fabric.

While I’m a vocal advocate of stripes as a go-to uniform, I don’t want my doormen to think I’m wearing the same shirt everyday. Switching up the pattern (even just a little) helps in this department. I’m a fan of the slightly cropped cut that’s perfect for wearing with high- and mid-waist pants. With a 21-inch body length, you definitely won’t need to tuck it in, but it’s not so short that it’s belly button baring.

For a slightly longer body length (25 inches) but an equally comfortable fit, try this style from AYR that I found to be the loungiest option on the list. It’s made of 100% unbeatably soft premium Peruvian pima cotton that’s expected to shrink roughly 5% after a few wash cycles. No worries, though, because the comfortable (not skin tight) fit allows for a little wiggle room so you can order your normal size. If you can’t choose between the cropped Slushy above and this must-have fit, AYR offers 20% off when you buy two (or more) of any combination of their tees.

When you think of iconic striped shirts, Saint James is likely the first name that comes to mind. The Normandy-based heritage brand is the purveyor of the original Breton Striped Shirt and recognized for its long-standing commitment to quality. The Minquiers Drop II is the label’s most popular style with a dropped shoulder that gives it a boyfriend fit. There’s room in the arms and the 100% lightweight cotton jersey gives a bit, but it isn’t as stretchy as some other styles that feel almost spandexy. It’s extremely breathable without being sheer (you don’t need an undershirt with it, but I wouldn’t wear a dark colored bra with the WHITE/NAVY version). If you prefer something less nautical, ecru (instead of white) makes a big difference, and I love the three-quarter sleeve Galathee style ($109) with maroon stripes.

The only way to make this boatneck style even better is to offer it in an anti-UV fabric, which Saint James delivers on with a combination of 91% polyamide microfiber and 9% elastane. It’s the perfect shirt for those who are active, outdoorsy, and maybe a little forgetful about sunscreen application. The material offers skin protection that’s twice as high as cotton, while texture wise it’s similar to performance fabrics with a quick dry feel and breathability. If you’ve ever worn a rashguard, this is similar but in a loose, comfortable fit. I love the stretchiness that makes it easy to peel off after a sweaty hike or pull on over a wet bathing suit.

Linen is one of my favorite fabrics not only for bedding and tablecloths, but also for clothing. Its substantial, textured look stands out in a sea of fast fashion synthetic fabrics, and it’s also naturally breathable, antimicrobial, heat-regulating, and long-lasting. This perfectly slouchy tee (available in the same cut for men) is so comfortable that one reviewer raves it’s their go-to choice for biking to work on hot days. I love the extra-long, loose-fitting short sleeves that are conducive to biking, gardening, and any activity where you need some shoulder mobility. The linen is made from flax grown in Normandy, France and if you’re overdosed on stripes, it’s available in five solid colors including gold, moss, and bone.

This oversized tee in extra-thick cotton is the weekend (or weekend-aspirational) top you’ve been looking for. If you’re binge watching or cozying up with a good book, details like a subtle chest pocket and side slits will ensure you’re impromptu-plan-ready should an invitation worth leaving the house for materialize. The boxy silhouette looks great with toothpick jeans or a pair of overalls. If you’re struggling with putting together an outfit, you can email a La Ligne Styliste who will get back to you within 72 hours with suggestions for how to wear your stripes.  

For days when no-fuss stripes feel a little lackluster, sub in this dramatic puff sleeve tee for a dose of whimsy. No one channels Stylish French Girl quite like Clare V. and this shirt is as smart as it is elegant. In the brand’s trademark navy and poppy hues, you’ll love the bracelet-length sleeves that are perfect for showing off a stack of your favorite jewelry. For an extra-personalized touch (or a great gift) add a three character monogram for $90 and choose from thread colors including green, cream, or lavender.

If you’re already a fan of Madewell’s bestselling crewneck tee, you need to add this striped version to your T-shirt collection. It’s cut from light and airy slub cotton that doesn’t require a breaking in period to feel favorite-tee soft. The Darville Stripe is a combo of muted greyish-navy and slightly off-white, which keeps it from looking like the more nautical palettes that many of the other tees in this roundup lean towards. This crewneck’s fit falls in between tight and relaxed for a casual look that goes with practically anything. Of all the options mentioned on this list, it’s the most wallet-friendly and size-inclusive with a range from XXS–4X.