The Best Breton Stripe Shirts for Women Over 40: Splurge, Spend, Save

Open my closet and your eyes will go directly to the section of Breton stripe shirts.

At first glance, it probably looks like more than anyone would need. But I wear every single one.

It’s one of the few tops I reach for in every season. While I wear them year-round, they get the most use in the spring and summer, paired with white jeans, denim, linen pants, shorts, and even over my shoulders on cool evenings.

Originally worn by French sailors in Brittany more than 150 years ago, the Breton stripe has become one of the few wardrobe staples that never really goes out of style. It doesn’t matter if your style leans classic or modern, a great Breton shirt works with almost everything.

For today’s Splurge, Spend, Save, I wanted to compare three long-sleeve Breton shirts that stay true to the original. They all have classic navy-and-ivory stripes, are made from cotton jersey, and have a timeless silhouette. The biggest difference is what you’ll pay.

What to Look for in a Breton Stripe Shirt

Not all striped shirts are created equal. Here are the details that make the biggest difference.

Fabric

This is one category where fabric matters.

Look for 100% cotton jersey whenever possible. It should have enough weight to skim the body without clinging and hold its shape throughout the day. Thin fabric can look limp, twist after washing, and lose its shape over time.

Neckline

The traditional Breton shirt features a boatneck.

The wider neckline is part of what makes this style so recognizable. It balances the horizontal stripes, flatters just about everyone, and gives the shirt a more polished look than a standard crewneck.

That said, there are plenty of crewneck versions on the market. If you’re buying your first Breton shirt, though, I’d stick with the classic boatneck.

Fit

One of the reasons Breton shirts have remained a classic for so long is that there isn’t just one right fit.

Traditional versions have a straight, easy silhouette, but today you’ll find everything from relaxed and boxy to more tailored styles.

For this roundup, I chose shirts that all have a classic shape, but each fits a little differently. The Kule has the most relaxed, boxy fit of the three. The Quaker Marine is the most traditional, and the Lands’ End falls somewhere in the middle.

As always, read the size chart and product description before ordering. If you’re between sizes, think about how you want to wear it. If you prefer a roomier fit, size up. If you like a more tailored look, stick with your usual size or follow the brand’s fit recommendations.

Color

While you’ll find Breton shirts in just about every color combination imaginable, I still think the classics are the best.

Ivory with navy stripes is probably the most traditional, but if you look in my closet, you’ll find just as many navy shirts with white stripes. I wear both constantly and don’t think you can go wrong with either.

Stripe Scale

This is one of those details you don’t notice until you start comparing shirts side by side.

I prefer medium-width stripes with even spacing. They’re the most versatile and feel the most timeless. Very thin stripes can almost read like a solid from a distance, while extra-wide stripes tend to feel more fashion-forward and can date more quickly.

Splurge: Kule The Boyfriend

Kule has built much of its reputation on striped shirts, and The Boyfriend is one of its most popular styles.

Made in Portugal from 100% cotton jersey, it has a relaxed, boxy fit with dropped shoulders that gives it a more casual feel than a traditional Breton shirt while still staying true to its nautical roots. The navy-and-cream stripe is classic, and the substantial cotton holds its shape beautifully.

This is the most modern option of the three, but because it’s based on such a timeless piece, I don’t think it will ever feel dated. If you like your basics with a little personality and know you’ll wear a Breton shirt on repeat, this is where I’d consider spending the money.

Kule sizing tip: This style is intentionally oversized. If you prefer a more traditional fit, consider sizing down.

Shop here → Kule The Boyfriend | $148 | Sizes XS – XXL

Spend: Quaker Marine Women’s Breton Stripe Boatneck Tee

Quaker Marine takes a more traditional approach.

Inspired by the original French mariner shirt, this version is made from mid-weight 100% cotton jersey and features a classic boatneck with clean, timeless proportions.

Compared to the Kule, the Quaker Marine feels a little less fashion-forward and a little more heritage, which, depending on your style, may actually be the appeal.

It’s simple, well made, and exactly the kind of shirt that never looks dated. Pair it with white jeans, chino shorts, or denim and you’re done.

If your wardrobe leans classic, this is a terrific middle-ground option.

Shop here → Quaker Marine Breton Boatneck Tee | $88 | XS – XL

Save: Lands’ End Mariner Jersey Boatneck Top

If you’ve ever shopped at Lands’ End, you’ve probably seen the Mariner.

It’s one of their longest-running styles, and for good reason.

Made from substantial cotton jersey, it offers the same classic boatneck silhouette and timeless navy-and-ivory stripe that make the more expensive versions so appealing.

One thing I especially appreciate is the size range. It’s available in Regular, Petite, Tall, and Plus, making it accessible to far more women than many premium brands.

Lands’ End also runs promotions regularly, so it’s often available well below its regular retail price, making it one of the best values in this category.

Shop here → Lands’ End Mariner Jersey Boatneck Top | Starting at $26.99

How to Choose

The Kule has the most relaxed fit, the Quaker Marine feels the most traditional, and the Lands’ End is an exceptional value, especially when it’s on sale.

I wear Breton shirts constantly, so I can justify having all three. If you’re buying your first, think about the fit you like best and how much you want to spend. No matter which one you choose, you’ll end up with one of the most versatile pieces you can own.

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