Nautical stripes is a classic American sportswear pattern that I happen to love wearing year-round, but especially in the summer. Ralph Lauren’s style guide put it perfectly, nautical stripes evokes a sporty, all-American elegance. 

The nautical stripes blouse I’m wearing happen to think is ultra flattering because the stripes are diagonal, which is visually interesting and elongating. Horizontal stripes can sometimes create unnecessary width. I say sometimes, because there are exceptions where that is not true. For example, if the stripes are thicker near the waist, the perfectly positioned dark stripe can actually create the illusion of a smaller waist.

I also love this nautical striped blouse because the pattern evokes boating and summertime. When I wear nautical stripes I instantly feel more summery. It’s so interesting how a simple striped pattern can do that. The blouse is also flowy and comfortable for summer.

I chose to pair the striped blouse with cropped navy dress pants, navy slingback heels and statement jewelry. The best thing about a nautical striped top is that it can go with almost anything. A t-shirt could pair with jeans, shorts, dress pants or even palazzo pants if the shirt hugs the body. A blouse like mine can easily work with a pencil skirt, dress pants, jeans, or walking shorts.

{Stacey’s Look: Ann Taylor Blouse and Pants, Banana Republic Bracelets (on sale!), Manolo Blahnik Heels (similar), Mark Cross Purse, Banana Republic Necklace (similar)}

If you think you aren’t cut out for striped tops, I would ask you to keep looking. You just might not have found the right shirt yet. I’ll never forget my all-time favorite top in college, it had varying width stripes in a chevron pattern down the center. It created so much visual length to my body.  It had a deep v-neck and then the chevron right below the v. I was a much bigger girl back then, but the top was still ultra flattering because of the placement of the stripes. I promise, nautical stripes can work on anyone, you just need to give them a try!

Do you wear stripes on a regular basis? What’s your favorite way to style your nautical prints?