10 Ways to make stripes work for you in your outfit

Fine Lines: 10 Ways to make stripes work for you in a flattering way

Angela Goh

21 Nov 2016

Stripes are simple, uncomplicated, and could be used to your advantage.

1/10
A high neckline
Any top with a high neckline can instantly add ten points to the elegant factor, like in this easy but super chic ensemble. We're loving the plum reds and deep colours in this outfit - very fall-esque.
2/10
Of the shoulder
We're in love with the monochrome colour palette here. Black is a recurring theme in this coordinated outfit - from the adorable hat to the simple boots to the mini skirt - and the casual off-shoulder striped top is the cherry on the top.
3/10
The casual look
There is something refreshing about a colourful tank top paired with some casual jeans, as fashion blogger Amelie Lloyd demonstrates here. A youthful, laid-back look just perfect for a weekend shopping jaunt.
4/10
The striped tote
Marie-Laure Dumon looks like she's on a mission here, with her oversised yellow and black striped bag. Don't underestimate the chic simplicity of a minimalistic tote like this one!
5/10
Bold and bright
Nikita Wong shows us how it's done by pairing a pink, red and blue striped top with a sweet-hued fairy pink pair of shorts. Accessorising the bubblegum look with a pair of reflective silver lace-up shoes and a cute 3-toned bag completes the whole ensemble with flying colours.
6/10
The essential striped shirt
Not too plain, and not too OTT, a white shirt with dark stripes is the quintessential wardrobe staple that will bring you from day to night with ease. Not too casual, yet not overly formal, the shirt is versatile enough to be paired with anything from shorts to jeans to cropped trousers.
7/10
Over the top
Angelika Ardasheva takes this opulent striped dress, in all its patterned glory, to the next level with a chunky belt and a quirky sock-and-sandal combination. A fascinating ensemble that surprisingly works.
8/10
Striped trousers
This comfy pair of loose-fitting striped trousers gives the entire outfit a more casual, "down to earth" sort of feel. The contrast between the white bottoms and the tan jacket, black t-shirt combo gives the ensemble a more defined, eye-catching look.
9/10
Stripe overload
There's nothing wrong with going completely over the top once in awhile. If you want to cover yourself in stripes from top to bottom, do it the chic way with a matching ensemble that is both fitting and comfortable.
10/10
The striped skirt
Sofya Benzakour shows us that simple can be sensual too, in knee-high boots, a plain white tee, and a sexy striped skirt with a slit up to the thigh.

We've all heard it: stripes can make or break your outfit. The minimalistic and often unsophisticated pattern often gets a bad reputation for creating unwanted optical illusions. Yes, horizontal stripes may seem like a good idea, but could make you look wider than you actually are. But did you know vertical stripes can make you look taller and slimmer? Stripes aren't all bad, and it's not a bad idea to stock up on a couple of perennial favourites.

Stripes can make a bold statement, and can definitely catch the eye, especially in classic monochrome colours. We've always loved the black and white combo, but stripes in bright colours (such as the pink, red and blue top that Nikita Wong flaunts in the gallery above) can also bring some fun and funky vibes to an outfit. From slit skirts to off-shoulder tops, enchanting dresses to long trousers, flick through the street style images above to get some inspiration from the fashionistas we love.

Stripes aren't boring if you don't want them to be.

Angela Goh

Photos: Getty Images

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