Ah, the simple Breton. Once a wardrobe staple for spring, it has recently had an autumn/winter makeover. Say hello to the 2022 version: the striped sweater. You might think it sounds like the same thing, but there is a subtle difference. The style trending now has some new additions – zip collars, oversized cuffs and chunkier stripes to name a few – and is a cosier but still just as easy-to-wear version of the original. Much like the white T-shirt and the boxy blazer, the stripy sweater is everywhere at the moment, and we’re wearing it too.
French-inspired knitwear might not be new, but like all the best trends, this one is timeless, so you can wear it through until summer, then pull it out again next autumn. It’s a sweater with a low-key aesthetic and relaxed silhouette – the slouchy fit pairs well with jeans, or try one with an elasticated waist to wear with tailored trousers.
We can certainly get behind it when there are lots of options out there to suit all budgets: thin stripes, thick stripes, navy stripes with cream, black with white. The high street serves up all of the above, and the best news? They’re chic and still affordable.
It can be tricky to find good quality knitwear on a high street budget, but we’ve picked out the stripes we’ll be racing for.
1. & Other Stories
If you haven’t been able to get your hands on the sell-out Arket Breton sweater – which would have made this list if it had still been in stock! – this from & Other Stories is a very similar option, price and quality-wise. It’s slightly more fitted, so we would size up on this one if you still want that laid-back look.
2. Mango
Another (almost) sell out success is this Mango thick knitted sweater. The dropped shoulder detail ticks the slouchy off-duty look. Also available with thicker stripes and in green if you want a slightly different vibe.
3. Warehouse
For a chunkier version, try Warehouse’s soft knit with a collar. The white is sold out, but the black has lots of sizes left. Great for an everyday look, we’d stick with the monochrome and team with white jeans.
4. Lindex
Lindex knows this style isn’t set to go anywhere as a new, snazzier version is about to drop. This oversized jumper with black stripes hits all the new season details – ribbed neckline, oversized sleeves and big side slits – and we can’t believe it’s only £39.99. Plus we love that it’s made from sustainable materials.
5. Zara
Zara has been on the striped bandwagon for years and sometimes it can be easy to be misled by the low prices when it comes to its knitwear. If you want it to last (which we do), try this one from its Join Life range – it’s slightly thicker and the heavier knit should withstand wear and tear. We love the funnel neck detail, too.
6. H&M
H&M has gone for a cropped version with a zip top detail – it’s one of the most affordable options out there at just £19.99; we’d recommend this one to pair with high waisted jeans, and remember to size up if you want to achieve that baggy look. This navy with rugby-style yellow stripes version is a great alternative to the classic mono style.
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