Damsons Jean Breton Top

Many style icons throughout history have sported a Breton top. Originally produced as an undershirt for sailors in the French navy, the first Breton (or marinière) featured 21 stripes, each a tribute to one of Napoleon’s victories. 

Our Damsons version is a relaxed, regular-fit 100% cotton jersey with the traditional Breton striped design in navy and white. The top features dropped shoulders, self-fabric cuffs and hem, and side vents with a herringbone tape finish. The elbows are reinforced with tan mock suede and the garment is finished with our signature swallow embroidery.  

This nautical-inspired top is a timeless classic, that’s easy to blend into any wardrobe. Pair with a light jacket and jeans for an evening out or with your favourite pair of shorts for a trip to the beach. This is the ultimate piece to channel your inner Parisian chic.   

Origins: The Breton stripe is a timeless design first introduced in 1858 as the uniform for the French Navy. The unique pattern was made up of 21 stripes each representing one of Napoleon Bonaparte’s victories. Designers such as Jean-Paul Gaultier and Coco Chanel have suede Breton stripes in their collections. It’s a design that’s loved by the likes of Audrey Hepburn and Kate Middleton.