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Princess Kate wearing Breton tops

9 Breton tops for a royal-worthy capsule wardrobe

Channel the Princess of Wales in these Breton stripe tops

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Hollie Brotherton
Lifestyle & Commerce Senior Writer
Updated: August 20, 2024
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A Breton top is a timeless essential in every capsule wardrobe. Pieces you'll want to include are a leather jacketwide-leg trousers and a pair of white trainers - to name just a few - but don't overlook the versatile stripe top.

First worn by the French navy and loved by the likes of Brigitte Bardot, Breton stripe tops are now synonymous with effortless Parisian style. They're also a favourite of Princess Kate, who was seen wearing one in a video posted to the official Prince and Princess of Wales Instagram account this weekend.

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The 42-year-old royal looked beautiful in her Ralph Lauren Tori top and delicate gold jewellery as she congratulated team GB on their performance in the 2024 Olympics.

Prince William and Princess Kate at their Norfolk home© Instagram
Princess Kate and Prince William congratulate Team GB athletes on Instagram

She's worn the (now sold out) style from the New York-based label's 2012 collection several times before, including for an engagement at the former Olympic Park in London in 2013.

The Princess of Wales wearing Breton tops

Princess Kate wears a long sleeve Breton top to launch the King's Cup Regatta in London in 2019© WPA Pool
Princess Kate channelled Parisian chic to launch the King's Cup Regatta in London in 2019

Princess Kate has been seen in a Breton top on several other occasions, pictured here in 2019 wearing one with navy tailored trousers by LK Bennett, matching suede block heels, and a statement red clutch.

The Princess of Wales visited the Great Britain SailGP Team in Plymouth in 2022© Samir Hussein
The Princess of Wales visited the Great Britain SailGP Team in Plymouth in 2022

She also wore a similar style as part of a nautical-inspired outfit in summer 2022, pairing a lightweight Breton knit with white tailored Holland Cooper shorts and her trusty Superga trainers.

Princess Kate and Prince George attended a Charity Polo Match at the Beaufort Polo Club in 2015© Max Mumby/Indigo
Princess Kate and Prince George attended a Charity Polo Match at the Beaufort Polo Club in 2015

Kate has long been a fan of the French style, pictured in 2015 wearing a slim-fit piece with a classic scoop neckline by ME+EM, paired with skinny jeans.

How I chose the best Breton tops

  • New-in: I've found all of the best new season pieces from team HELLO!'s favourite fashion brands.
  • Colour: All of these Breton tops come in the classic white and navy combination (although many also have alternative colour options). 
  • Cut: I've included a range of cuts, from long to short sleeves, and fitted to relaxed silhouettes.

1/9

M&S Pure Cotton Striped Everyday Fit T-Shirt

M&S breton

Editor's note

Made from 100% cotton in a classic crew neck cut, this popular M&S Breton top is a steal at just £8.50. It's ideal to throw on with wide-leg trousers or a midi skirt this summer.

2/9

Boden Ella Short Sleeve Breton

Boden breton top

Editor's note

I could see Princess Kate in Boden's Ella short sleeve Breton. Made from breathable 100% cotton and cut in a slim fit, I love it styled with wide-leg jeans.

3/9

& Other Stories Relaxed Striped Jersey Top

& Other Stories Breton top

Editor's note

& Other Stories relaxed silhouette Breton top has long sleeves and a flattering boat neckline. It pairs perfectly with a trench when we move into the transitional months.

4/9

Mango Striped Rib T-Shirt

Mango Breton t shirt

Editor's note

With its fitted, straight cut and delicate stripes, Mango has created the perfect everyday striped top to tuck into trousers. Made from pure cotton, it's lightweight and breathable.

5/9

COS Clean Cut Striped T-Shirt

COS breton

Editor's note

The Clean Cut style from COS is known as the white T-Shirt, and it now comes in Breton stripes. It's made from premium heavyweight cotton-jersey and shaped for a slim fit.

6/9

H&M Fine-Knit Top

H&M breton top

Editor's note

H&M's fine knit Breton top has short sleeves, and ribbing around the neckline, cuffs and hem. It's ideal for those cooler summer days.


7/9

Sézane Colette Marinière

Sezane breton

Editor's note

For true Parisian style, look to Sézane. The luxe French fashion brand has this Breton in a whole array of shades. Made from a super soft cotton, it features a round neckline closed by a shoulder tab with buttons.

8/9

Joules New Harbour Stripe Breton Top

Joules breton top

Editor's note

The Harbour top is one of Joules' most popular styles, thanks to its quality heavyweight cotton jersey fabric that feels super soft. Available in Breton stripes, it has a relaxed fit with a wide boat neck.

9/9

Jigsaw Cotton Slub Stripe Long Sleeve Tee

Jigsaw breton

Editor's note

For a premium long sleeve style, Jigsaw's Breton tee has a cool relaxed cut and is made from 100% cotton jersey with a subtle slug texture.


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