La Marinière: History, meaning and influence

Why do sailors wear striped shirts?

The sailor's shirt , with its iconic stripes, is more than just a piece of clothing: it is a functional and symbolic piece that has been anchored in the maritime world since the 19th century. It was originally adopted by the French Navy for practical reasons. The famous decree of 1858 established the blue and white striped uniform for sailors, making it easy to spot men who had fallen overboard, its contrasting stripes standing out in the waves. The sailor's shirt thus represents a tradition of safety and visibility.

With 21 white stripes and 20 blue stripes , the sailor's shirt has since become a symbol of order and regulation, with every detail respecting strict rules. This visual codification echoes the military organization and reinforces the identity of the crews. Later adopted by other European navies, it has become a marker of recognition in the maritime world, while remaining an official uniform in France.

What is the origin of the sailor's shirt?

The sailor's shirt has its roots in the Breton coast, but also in international maritime influences. As early as the 17th century, Breton fishermen used striped knitwear to protect themselves from the elements. Over the centuries, the sailor's shirt has become emblematic of the sailor's wardrobe, spanning eras and cultures.

From the French Navy to contemporary fashion, this garment has seduced designers and stylists, notably thanks to Coco Chanel, who introduced it to the general public in the 1910s. Revisited by Jean-Paul Gaultier in the 1980s, it has established itself as a timeless and elegant piece.

The sailor's shirt: from uniform to fashion

The success of the striped sweater is not limited to the marine environment. In the 60s, cinema and personalities such as Brigitte Bardot or Jean Seberg propelled it into the collective imagination. Its adoption by artists, filmmakers and fashion icons made it a symbol of freedom and authenticity, beyond its original use.

At Manufacture Perrin, we perpetuate this tradition of French know-how with a range of sailor-style products, 100% Made in France .

Discover our cotton socks and ankle socks by Perrin, silk socks by Berthe Aux Grands Pieds without elasticated edges, succumb to the charm of the Dagobert suspenders upside down and fall for underwear featuring this pattern, such as the Le Terrible briefs by Le Slip Français as well as the Eminence briefs and boxers , all designed to combine comfort, elegance and tradition.

The call of the open sea

As the 2024 Vendée Globe approaches, the sailor's sweater once again embodies the spirit of courage and audacity specific to sailors.

This iconic garment reminds us of the strength of maritime tradition and its role in French clothing heritage.