#TBT: Nautical—Breton Stripe

Did you know that this classic blue and white striped pattern has a name? As you probably guessed from the title, it’s the Breton stripe, and is summer’s unspoken neutral, especially next to the beach. The original shirt, worn by navy men from Brittany (France) before men from Breton adopted it. Originally, it contained 21 stripes- one for each of Napolean’s victories, but at some point, the French’s military imagination got the better of them and the stripes went haywire. Coco Chanel was instrumental in this diffusion, popularizing the stripe by adding it to her 1917 nautical line.

But I think my favorite reincarnation of this summer staple is Jean Seberg in Godard’s Breathless, which basically makes this post as obnoxious and basic as possible. At this point, I will make my exit. 

Outfit Details: Hat: Thrifted | Shirt: J. Crew | Sunglasses: Target | Skirt: Burberry London | Belt: H&M? | Shoes: Brighton

C–hat–auqua

If you’ve been following me with any semblance of regularity, you’ve probably figured out by now that I have quite the penchant for hats. Specifically vintage hats. Last count put me at somewhere over one hundred, and seeing how that’s more than I can probably manage myself, I thought it only fair that I start sharing them with you (as learn to work my tripod and the time set on my camera). It seems the season to inaugurate series, and this one is no different.

After reading Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, I was enthralled by the idea of a “chautauqua.” At first, I mistakenly thought this was the name of the talks which Native Americans had around the campfire. That was ludicrous hogwash (what hogwash isn’t ludicrous, after all). The name actually comes from a city in New York where the origins of this well-meaning adult education movement began. You can read all about its glories here (complete with both Elvis and William Jennings Bryan (at different times)).

As for the hat itself, I regret to say I am unclear as to its actual date of conception. The style and tuille lead me to believe it was probably a 1950s number, but if anyone has a better idea please comment below. I always love learning more about hats, and really any millinery wisdom you’d like to share. Also, if you have any ideas on a name for this hat, they’d be most welcome. Right now I’m inclined to call it “Autumn Blues,” but that does seem so obvious, don’t you think?Accessories: Dress: Burberry London | Earrings: vintage

Burberry: for the Unenlightened

So I came across this graph today explaining Burberry’s three brands: Prorsum (which means “forward” in Latin), London, and Brit. Now before you buy that “Burberry” jacket you’ve wanted since birth, you’ll know exactly what you’re getting into.