A Brief History

The history of stripes in fashion is a rollercoaster ride of rebellion, high society, and pure, unadulterated chicness. Picture this: it's the medieval times, and stripes are the bad boys of the pattern world, donned by jesters and outcasts. Who would've thought that these parallel lines could cause such a stir? But oh, they did. Stripes were the ultimate rebels, the outsiders looking in, and frankly, they weren't getting any invites to the cool parties.

Fast forward to the 18th century, and stripes said, "Enough! We're flipping the script." With revolutions popping off in America and France, stripes became the it-pattern for those who dared to dream of freedom and change. The Breton stripe sauntered onto the scene with its navy and white swagger, straight out of the French navy's closet in Brittany, 1858, and suddenly, stripes were the emblem of chic rebellion.

The nautical (Breton) stripe was first worn by navy seamen to ease identification when they fell overboard. Queen Victoria declared horizontal stripes a sartorial choice alongside their vertical counterparts when she dressed her son in a nautically striped sailor suit for a royal outing, propelling the pattern into high class status.

 

Stripes in Fashion

As the 19th century turned into the 20th, stripes began to firmly establish themselves in the fashion world. The introduction of the iconic Coco Chanel's nautical-inspired collection in the 1910s further elevated the status of stripes, aligning them with the notions of elegance, simplicity, and timeless style. This period marked the beginning of stripes as a staple pattern in the wardrobes of the fashionable and the affluent.

Photos of Coco Chanel Through the Years: Her Evolution From 1910 to 1960s, WWD. Getty Images. 

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The versatility of stripes is one of the key reasons they have remained fashionable throughout the decades. They can be bold or subtle, creating different visual effects and flattering the figure in various ways depending on their orientation, width, and color. From the mod fashion of the 1960s, with its love for bold, graphic patterns, to the punk movement of the 1970s and the minimalist trends of the 1990s, stripes have adapted to fit the prevailing styles of the day.

 1. Ralph Lauren | 2. Rhude |  | 3. Monse | 4. Proenza Schouler | 5. Fendi

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In contemporary fashion, stripes are celebrated for their adaptability and appeal across genders, ages, and body types. They can convey numerous styles; for instance, pinstripes in suiting emanate professionalism and sophistication, while bold, colorful stripes in casual wear suggest fun and boldness. Designers often experiment with the orientation, width, and color of stripes, blending them into their collections in innovative ways that challenge traditional perceptions and showcase creativity.

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Stripes in Home

Stripes are a fascinating and versatile element in interior design, creating illusions, defining spaces, and adding visual interest to any room. Their simplicity makes them a timeless choice, yet their application can range from the bold and dramatic to the subtle and sophisticated. Let’s dive into how stripes can be effectively utilized in home decor.

Creating Illusions with Stripes

One of the most intriguing aspects of using stripes in interior design is their ability to manipulate perception. Vertical stripes, for instance, can make ceilings appear higher, making them a perfect choice for rooms with low ceilings. Conversely, horizontal stripes can make a narrow room seem wider, creating a sense of spaciousness.  

Defining Spaces

Stripes can also play a crucial role in defining different areas within a home. In open-plan layouts, a striped rug or a feature wall with horizontal or vertical stripes can delineate spaces without the need for physical barriers. This can be particularly effective in studio apartments or large rooms that serve multiple functions, such as a combined living and dining area.

Adding Movement and Rhythm

The dynamic nature of stripes can introduce movement and rhythm into a space. Variegated stripes, with their varying widths and colors, can create a lively and engaging atmosphere, perfect for a child’s bedroom or a creative workspace.

Incorporating Texture and Color

Stripes are not just about color contrast; they can also be about texture. Using different materials or finishes within the stripes can add depth and interest to the design. For example, a combination of matte and glossy stripes can create a subtle yet sophisticated effect. Additionally, the choice of colors can dramatically influence the mood of a room. Soft, pastel stripes might create a calming, serene atmosphere, while bold, contrasting stripes can add vibrancy and energy.

Elegant Solutions with Pinstripes

Pinstripes are a more understated way to incorporate stripes into a home’s design, offering elegance and sophistication. They are particularly well-suited to formal areas of the home, such as dining rooms or home offices. Pinstripes in soft, neutral colors can add texture and depth without overwhelming the space.

Types of Stripes

Awning Stripes

Awning stripes are characterized by their wide, bold bands of color, traditionally seen on the canvas of store awnings. These stripes are often in two or more contrasting colors, providing a strong visual statement. Awning stripes have a classic, somewhat nostalgic appeal, invoking images of seaside resorts, outdoor cafes, and traditional marketplaces. In home decor, awning stripes can be used to create a bold, cheerful environment, ideal for outdoor cushions, upholstery, and window treatments.

1. Anthropologie | 2. Tuckernuck | 3. Domino  | 4. US Wall Decor | 5. Pinterest

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Bengal Stripes

Bengal stripes are characterized by their even, vertical stripes that are often found in classic shirting fabrics. Originating from Bengal, India, these stripes were initially produced through traditional weaving methods. Bengal stripes are typically narrow and can be found in a variety of colors, although blue and white are the most classic and widely recognized pairing.

Bayadere Stripes

Bayadere stripes stand out for their boldness and vibrant use of color. The term "bayadere" finds its roots in the Indian subcontinent, drawing inspiration from the bright and colorful attire of the Bayaderes (temple dancers). Unlike the uniform Bengal stripes, Bayadere stripes are multicolored and can vary in width, often featuring a mix of broad and narrow bands.

1. Dusen Dusen | 2. Rhode | 3. Dusen Dusen | 4. Verloop

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Barcode Stripes

Barcode stripes are a modern and graphic pattern, reminiscent of the barcodes used in product labeling and identification. These stripes consist of varying widths, closely placed together, typically in black and white. The visual effect of barcode stripes is striking and contemporary, making them a popular choice in graphic design, fashion, and modern interior decor.

Candy Stripes

Candy stripes are sweet and playful, typically featuring evenly spaced, narrow stripes in bright or pastel colours. The pattern gets its name from the resemblance to the traditional candy cane's red and white spiraling stripes. However, candy stripes can come in any color combination. They are often associated with a youthful, cheerful aesthetic, making them a popular choice for children’s clothing, casual wear, and whimsical home decor.

1. The Elder Statesman | 2. Pen & Dash | 3. 

The Pinstripe

The pinstripe is a classic pattern that has long held a revered place in the realms of fashion and interior design. Characterized by its very thin, often uniform stripes against a contrasting background, the pinstripe offers an aura of sophistication, elegance, and subtle detail. Whether adorning a bespoke suit or lending a refined touch to home decor, pinstripes continue to be a testament to the timeless elegance of simplicity.

1. Sheyne | 2. Ca’ Pietra | 3. Tekla | 4. Sunnei | 5. Gohar World | 6. Ceramic Stool

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Barbet and Stripes 

 

The stripe pattern on Barbet cans serves as a visual representation of our values. It speaks to a blend of tradition and contemporaneity, which gives it both a nostalgic nod and a modern twist. IIt's like a little nod to those timeless moments of joy, just like the excitement of cracking open a can of Barbet.

Barbet Hidden Taste 002. 

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In summary, stripes are a versatile and universal element in both culture and home design. Whether bold or subtle, stripes have the power to communicate identity, create illusions, and transform spaces.

Stripes have played a significant role in both culture and home design, manifesting in various forms and holding different meanings across contexts. Their simplicity and versatility make them a timeless element in art, interior design, and Barbet cans!  

Stripe Up Your Life and Shop the Goods!