French-Sailor Striped T-Shirt 'La Marinière': Timeless & Unisex for Kids
Stripes have been a staple on the runways for years—jailhouse-style, nautical, vertical, and angled. But my favorite remains the classic French-Sailor Striped T-shirt, or "la marinière." Simple, versatile, and timeless, this classic tee is a must-have in any wardrobe. Plus, it’s Unisex! Yes, I said it again—Unisex!
The Saint James nautical tee, a French classic since 1850, was originally part of the official French naval uniform. It has since been embraced by icons like Audrey Hepburn and Picasso, and now, it’s perfect for your little one too!
I've selected my top four Unisex French-Sailor Striped T-shirts, with the #1 choice being the Saint James brand. (Though the company is based in France and doesn’t ship to the U.S., if you're heading to France, make sure to have someone bring one back for you & your little one!)
The beauty of the French-Sailor Striped T-shirt is its versatility. Pair it with dark-wash slim jeans, and your little one will be ready to go—whether they’re wearing ballet flats or sneakers. It's a simple yet stylish choice, and I've included four outfit ideas to show how this classic tee can help your little one express their individuality.
Enjoy & Merci!
My Four Favorite Unisex French-Sailor Stripe T-Shirts!
1. Saint James | 2. Jacadi | 3. Petit-Bateau | 4. American Apparel
For a Preppy Girly Look, I love the Classic French-Sailor Striped T-Shirt outfitted with an easy pull-on Chambray Skirt, this one is from J.Crew, and of course worn with Nike Free Sneakers! And your daughter won't think the outfit is complete without her favorite stuffed animal, this Hazel Village Stuffed Rabbit is extra cute wearing a Liberty Floral Print Dress!
For the Ultimate Prima Ballerina Girly Look, I love the Classic French-Sailor Striped T-Shirt outfitted with a Tulle Skirt, this Tea Collection skirt is amazing with its ruffly tiers, and worn with these adorable yet comfortable and minimalist Bloch Ballet Flats! And just think how special your Tiny Dancer would feel adding on this Initial Heart Necklace from J.Crew!
For a Classic Cool Look, I love the Classic French-Sailor Striped T-Shirt outfitted with dark washed slim jeans, these boys Houston Indigo Skinny jeans are from Ruum, and of course worn with Nike Free Sneakers. Make sure your son or daughter throws their Parka over this classic outfit before they head into the cold to complete the cool look. This Woolrich Parka is the perfect complement to a Classic French-Sailor Striped T-Shirt, as Woolrich, like Saint James, is rich in history being one of the oldest and most legendary outdoor clothiers in the world since 1830!
For a Stylish Trendy Look, I love the Classic French-Sailor Striped T-Shirt outfitted with the genuine article, OshKosh B'Gosh Overalls, and worn with a great pair of light-weight minimalist sneakers like these Unisex Bensimon plimsoles (Bensimon is also a French brand-- très chic). And your son or daughter won't think the outfit is complete without their favorite animal, my son's favorite is this Schleich Giraffe that he takes everywhere with him!
Photos | Pinterest | americanapparel.net | burberry.com | Pinterest
