Sunkissed Stripes

If James Bond went undercover at a European beach club in 1973, this is the top he’d pack. Actually, it’s probably all he’d wear - well, if Bond were female, of course. A sleeveless retro stripe knit with ‘I’m-with-the-band’ attitude and more effortless cool than an Italian ice truck. 

There’s something about these stripes that refuses to play second fiddle to your boring black blazer. Wide and narrow - like a supermodel's jawline - these bold vertical numbers in a rainbow of combinations are the sartorial equivalent of slapping sunscreen on your best mate’s back and yelling “On ya!” at the top of your lungs. 

They’re breezy - ideal for summer but even better under a jacket when you’re meeting someone new for drinks after work on Wednesday. And those finishes - those wide ribbed hems at neck, arm and waist? Pure nostalgia, dialled down just enough for anything you throw at them now.

The knit? Lightweight open-weave that won’t stick to you like cling wrap after two negronis but still manages just enough sheerness to turn heads down at Bondi. If you’re allergic to polyester, don’t fret - this clever blend of mostly cotton and acrylic is suitable for the most sensitive skinned stripe lover. Oh, and there’s absolutely zero stretch so nothing’s hugging your soft bits unless you want it to.

Wear it loose over baggy jeans or French tuck into a skirt or tailored trousers for a bit of fun on Casual Friday. Like all classics - this one’s here to stay through every single 80s revival because, sorry not sorry, it’ll always be cooler than whatever they’re selling in Topshop anyway.