Focus on the striped sweater, an essential fashion piece

The sailor's striped sweater , a timeless classic of the nautical wardrobe, has survived the years without ever losing its popularity. At Mat de Misaine, we continue this tradition by offering quality sailor's striped sweaters , perfect for all occasions. Discover how the Mat de Misaine sailor's sweater embodies the chic of the Atlantic coast while remaining a sustainable and fashionable choice.

The history of the Marinière

The marinière , this iconic horizontally striped garment, originated in 19th-century France. Originally worn by sailors in the French Navy, the marinière had a distinctive design with blue and white, or black and white, stripes, making it easy to spot a sailor who had fallen overboard.
Over time, the striped sweater has become a must-have fashion statement. In the 1920s, Coco Chanel helped popularize the striped sweater by transforming it into a chic, unisex garment, worn by figures such as Brigitte Bardot, Audrey Hepburn, and Jean-Paul Gaultier. Today, it symbolizes relaxed elegance.
The Mat de Misaine sailor shirt is part of this long line, preserving its heritage while adapting it to contemporary tastes.

Why does the sailor shirt have 21 stripes?

Legend has it that the 21 stripes on the sailor shirt are associated with Napoleon Bonaparte's victories. Each stripe is said to represent a victory, although there is no solid evidence to support this theory. Another popular explanation is that the 21 stripes represent Napoleon's 21 victories in naval battles.
The marinière was originally designed and used as a uniform for French sailors. The number of stripes on a marinière was primarily determined by practical and aesthetic considerations; there is no strict rule as to the correct number of stripes.
Thus, the pattern of 21 stripes on a sailor shirt remains more associated with legends and traditions than with any historically verifiable meaning.

The Mat de Misaine Marinière, a fashionable piece for any season

Mat de Misaine's men's and women's striped sweaters are distinguished by their impeccable cuts and exceptional quality. Using premium fabrics, such as organic cotton, each piece is designed for comfort and durability. The meticulous details and finishes demonstrate French craftsmanship and a particular attention to sustainable fashion. The Mat de Misaine striped sweater is extremely versatile. It can be worn under a jacket for a professional look or paired with jeans for a casual outing.

Mat de Misaine striped sweaters are not just clothes: they reflect a lifestyle, a love for the sea and a commitment to sustainable fashion.

Explore our collection of women's and men's striped tops to find your perfect striped top!

Also check out our tips on when to wear a women's striped sweater !