There’s no debating stripes are beloved. They are classic, fresh and sharp, plus versatile with a broad range from fun to serious. Of all patterns, however, stripes are the most tricky when it comes to wearing — scale, direction, color — so knowing the science behind what’s flattering and what’s not is essential. Here are 5 top pro tips to keep your stripes fresh and flattering:

1. The Classics
   Let’s start with the basics. Every woman should have a classic blue and white striped something in their closet — crisp blouse, French bateau t-shirt, cashmere Rugby sweater. It’s such an iconic pattern that it performs like a neutral, making it easy and effortless to pair with everything. Wear a classic blue and white striped shirt untucked with straight-cut jeans and a trench coat. Pair a French bateau tee with a structured blazer, trousers and smart handbag. Try a cashmere Rugby striped sweater with white jeans and driving moccasins. So easy, so chic.

2. Boss Lady
   Menswear-inspired pinstripes are another classic and stylish look every woman should own. For blondes, make sure you have navy pinstripe suiting in your closet to dress up with heels and a silk tank, or dress down with sneakers and a t-shirt. Black and white pinstripes are best for brunettes and pair well with a turtleneck by day, and leather and lace by night. Don’t forget the statement jewelry!

3. Mind the gap
   Scale is important as stripes can easily overpower the wearer. Stick to diminutive stripes with lots of white space if petite or small-framed, then scale up accordingly — medium sized woman are best with medium-ish sized stripes; larger, bigger boned women can go for bold and daring wide stripes. Always remember YOU wear the stripes, then stripes don’t wear you!

4. Always balance
   If your body’s widest point is below the waist, wear horizontal stripes up top to balance proportions. Try a classic French bateau tee with denim or black jeans, then a cropped jacket to keep proportions in thirds — the optimal portions to flatter the figure. If your shoulders have the most width, try a multi-colored, horizontal striped skirt with center button placket for the best of both worlds — horizontal stripes to balance shoulders, plus a vertical closure to ensure silhouette stays elongated.

5. Stripe science
   A few rules to remember — both diagonal and vertical stripes are slimming at no matter what scale. Same with dark colored stripe combinations. Generally, avoid horizontal stripes below the waist. Broad-shouldered women should never wear horizontal stripes on top, only vertical. And — as a general rule — the thinner the stripe, the more flattering.

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