Earn your stripes
> This year’s standout trend for him and her
STRIPES were a major trend at recent catwalk shows across the world. Narrow pinstripes and wide blocky stripes, as well as checked patterns, were everywhere. Experts expect this latest fad to reach shops soon.
Stripes can trace their history back to French fishermen. Since the 1930s the pattern has been a favourite among fashion designers, when Coco Chanel (1883-1971) discovered stripes for high fashion.
She first encountered the striped shirts during a holiday in the northern French region of Brittany and later adapted them for her collections.
However, stripes are not always that easy to carry off. “As a general rule, the bigger and more contrasting the stripe is, the bulkier it appears,” explains style expert and author Katharina Starlay. This is why such stripes are best suited for bigger people.
But it’s not just about the size of the stripe, emphasises Starley.
“Women with curves are not necessarily well advised to wear stripes.” The same is true for men. In addition, stripes tend to work better on more solid fabrics than on flowing materials, adds Starley. She advises: “Try out different forms, such as diagonal stripes. These look great on fit, toned bodies.”
Stripes will be one of this year’s top trends for both genders, says stylist Stephanie Zarnic. “However, don’t forget that stripes draw attention. So, think carefully about what you would like to emphasise.” The way others look at us also plays a role here. “In the case of horizontal stripes, the eye of the observer moves from left to right and then back again. The mass of the wearer is automatically scanned at the same time.” For example, “if a woman with voluptuous proportions wears horizontal stripes, it can look bulky,” explains Zarnic. “Vertical stripes, on the other hand, allow the eye to move the body lengthwise. This is why pinstrips can make the body appear longer.” Zarnic’s advice is to use stripes on the narrow parts of your body only.
To be on the safe side, you should always combine a plain blazer with stripes. “For example, if