Seeing Stripes

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Whether horizontal, vertical, chevron, thin, thick, black and white or multi-colored, stripes make a bold statement, for any occasion, day or night.

Striped fabrics can easily make a fashionable transition through seasons and will surely never go out of style.

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Stripes always make a point to impress and are incredibly versatile, creating a look that can go from campus to weekend. This lined print can take you from boho chic to polished and sophisticated depending on the accessories that you pair with your outfit.

Walk the line with this timeless pattern that creates structure and serves as a stylish compromise by remaining conservative while providing sartorial separation from the masses clad in solid hues.

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Stripes can definitely be intimidating for even the most seasoned fashionista. Let’s be honest, no girl wants to resemble a circus tent or the prominent figure in “Where’s Waldo?”

But like with many bold patterns, a little bit of smart styling certainly goes a long way, especially when it comes to fashion with stripes.

When attempting to conquer striped duds, be sure to select the correct complimenting pieces to conceive a well-balanced ensemble. Electing the right stripes for your body can result in a very figure-flattering look that can enhance your shape while looking fashionably savvy.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Stripes
This functional pattern can easily be made stylish on an everyday basis. The key to appear striking in stripes is to always wear just one striped piece paired with contrasting solid colors or simple prints.

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Vertically striped bottom pieces such as skirts or pants can create the illusion of length and add height when simply worn with a solid colored blouse.

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When donning a striped dress, refrain from horizontal lines that can adversely widen your hips and create an unflattering shape.

However, if you have a naturally narrow torso, this direction of stripes serves to create some curves and form to your center and backside.

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Black and White Stripes
Although stripes may initially seem intimidating, there is nothing easier to pull off than a black and white striped top. This essential item works well with practically any fabric from denim to cashmere and crafts a clean and sophisticated look, all while seeming effortlessly executed.

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A basic black and white striped top can pair well with an array of bottom pieces from colored skinnies to tailored trousers. Simple black and white stripes are ideal for street style wear or can be vamped up to craft more of a posh outfit.

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For a slick and mod approach, try an all black ensemble finished off with a striped blouse. Add flats or oxford lace-up shoes for a Parisian vibe that will surely have onlookers saying “ooh la la.”

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For the fall season, striped tops layered over slouchy leather trousers look casually cool while still maintaining an air of sophistication. Cover up with a colored cardigan and a statement necklace to add some flair.

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Stripes and Earth Tones
Play it safe with your stripes by playing them up around neutral hues. Pairing the pattern with monochromatic earth tones is a stylish way to make your minimalist gear appear less boring and plain.

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Look cool and stay warm by layering an oversized striped sweater over fitted black leggings. Finish off your ensemble with caramel knee-high riding boots and a knit scarf and you’ll be ready to take on the breeziest of autumn days.

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Nautical
A classic approach to stripes is the sailor inspired get up. Typically achieved with navy blue and white lines, this look is perfect all year round and exudes a very polished style. Nautical outfits can be accented with pops of red paired with gold accessories.

To look like you’re ready to navigate the seven seas, match a navy blue and white vertically striped blouse with white skinnies, chunky gold accessories and red strappy heels. Add a red lip for an extra dose of brightness to your minimal look.

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Mix and Match
Feeling fashionably adventurous? Try standing out from the crowd by pairing other prints with your stripes. Mix toned down florals or animal fabrics for a fierce take on the straight line.

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Take your outfit to happy hour and tuck a striped blouse into a flowery skater skirt or printed pencil skirt. Remember to use fall appropriate prints when mixing your stripes to remain seasonably consistent.

If you’re looking for a real fashion challenge, attempt wearing a completely head to toe striped ensemble. Channel your inner tiger and stick to one pattern of stripes. A matching skirt and top set appears stylish and fashion forward without having to make much of an effort.

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You can attempt to break the lines by mixing different stripes with varying widths and shapes. When combining different stripes, try to adhere to a uniform color palette in order to avoid seeming overdone.