Stripes Are the Print of 2026 — Here’s How to Wear Them Over 50

If there’s one print I reach for more than any other, it’s stripes. They’re classic, they’re flattering, and they go with just about everything in my closet. And in 2026, stripes are officially having a moment — showing up on runways, in stores, and on some of the chicest women I know.

But this isn’t just your standard navy-and-white Breton stripe (though I’ll always love that, too). This year’s stripe trend is bolder, more colorful, and full of personality, just like the Frances Valentine Long Sleeve Striped Tee in today’s cover photo. From vibrant striped sweaters to refined pinstripe trousers, there’s a version of this trend for every style and every comfort level.

Today I’m breaking down how to wear stripes over 50 — with outfit ideas, styling tips, and a few rules you can safely ignore.

Beth’s Stripe Styling Tips ✨

1. Stripes Are a Neutral — Treat Them That Way A classic striped tee works like a neutral in your wardrobe. It pairs beautifully with jeans, trousers, skirts, and even other patterns like plaid, florals, and leopard. If you’re nervous about pattern mixing, stripes are the perfect place to start.

2. Vertical, Horizontal — It Doesn’t Matter Forget the old rule that horizontal stripes are unflattering. What matters is fit, fabric, and proportion — not the direction of the stripe. Wear what you love and what feels good on your body.

3. Go Bold With Color The 2026 stripe trend isn’t just about navy and white. Look for stripes in red, yellow, green, and unexpected color combinations. A colorful striped sweater can instantly brighten a simple outfit.

4. Mix Your Stripe Widths Thin stripes and bold stripes can absolutely be worn together — just make sure there’s enough contrast in the scale. A chunky striped sweater over a thin-striped button-down? Chic.

5. Pinstripes Are Back Pinstripe trousers and blazers are having a refined moment. They read polished and powerful — perfect for work, lunch, or anytime you want to feel put-together.

6. Accessorize With Stripes Not ready to commit to a striped top? Start with a striped scarf, bag, or even striped shoes. It’s an easy way to tap into the trend without overhauling your wardrobe.

Style Inspiration – The Outfits

Vertical Stripes

Vertical stripes are having a major moment right now — and they’re one of the most universally flattering stripe directions. The eye naturally follows the lines, creating an elongating effect that works beautifully on every body type.

This Sadie Relaxed Cotton Shirt is a perfect example of how to wear vertical stripes without going full pinstripe-suit territory. I layered it under a navy Jackie Sweatshirt Cardigan and paired it with cream wide-leg pants for a relaxed but polished look. The key here? Letting the stripe do the talking while keeping everything else simple.

For a more polished take on vertical stripes, I love a tie-front blouse. This tan and white Tie Front Poplin Shirt from Talbots has beautiful movement, and the tie detail adds visual interest at the waist. I went tonal with tan ankle pants and a chocolate brown hobo bag — proof that stripes pair beautifully with solid neutrals.

The oversized sunglasses and gold jewelry elevate this from “running errands” to “lunch meeting ready” in seconds.

Horizontal Stripes

Can we talk about the myth that horizontal stripes are unflattering? It’s simply not true. Horizontal stripes are classic, chic, and — when styled intentionally — incredibly flattering at any age.

This navy and white Mockneck Intarsia Pullover Sweater is one of my favorite pieces from Talbots for Valentine’s Day and beyond. The horizontal lines create visual interest without overwhelming, and the heart detail adds a playful touch. I paired it with White Denim and red ballet flats to pull out that red accent — because sometimes more is more.

Here’s another way to wear horizontal stripes: in warm, unexpected color combinations. This camel and cream striped sweater with cheerful yellow trim feels fresh and modern — a nice departure from the expected navy and white.

The preppy layering with a white button-down collar peeking out gives it that classic polish I love, while the tassel loafers keep things comfortable and pulled-together. This is the kind of outfit that takes you from coffee to casual Friday without missing a beat.

Go Bold With Colorful Stripes

If you’re ready to take your stripe game up a notch, try a multicolor striped sweater. This rainbow-hued piece is giving major joy — and it’s easier to style than you might think.

The trick? Ground it with a solid neutral bottom. These olive corduroy utility pants absorb the color without competing, and the chunky Chelsea boots keep the whole look casual and balanced. When your top is the statement, let everything else play a supporting role.

The Classic Breton Stripe

No stripes post would be complete without the Breton stripe — that classic navy and white pattern that originated with French sailors and has been a style staple ever since. It’s timeless for a reason.

Here I’ve layered a simple striped tee under a Cashmere Structured Cardigan. The gold buttons on the cardigan echo my gold hoop earrings, and the barrel jeans give it a modern silhouette. Nude square-toe boots keep the color palette neutral and let the stripe shine.

This is the outfit formula I reach for again and again: Breton tee + cardigan + great jeans.

For a more relaxed take on the Breton stripe, try layering it under a Denim Western Shirt worn open like a jacket. Add white jeans and classic Chuck Taylor sneakers, and you’ve got the perfect casual weekend outfit.

This look is effortless but intentional.

Another way to style your Breton tee: layer it under a colorful cardigan. This burgundy cashmere cardigan adds warmth — both literally and in terms of color — while the jeans and slingback flats keep it grounded.

The belt helps define the waist and adds a polished finishing touch. This is a great outfit formula for transitional weather when you need layers but want to look put-together.

More Stripes to Love Right Now

Find More Styling Inspiration on the Blog!

• Pattern Mixing for Beginners: How to Mix Patterns in an Outfit Over 50
• How to Dress Like a Stylish Grandmother
• The 5 Most Comfortable Pants for Women Over 50
• Winter-to-Spring Capsule Wardrobe for Women Over 50
• Steal vs. Real: Luxury Knits That Look Expensive

Closing Thoughts – How to Wear Stripes Over 50

Stripes have been a wardrobe staple for decades — and in 2026, they’re more relevant than ever. Whether you lean into the bold, colorful versions trending right now or stick with the classic Breton stripe you’ve loved for years, this is a print that flatters, transitions across seasons, and never goes out of style. So pull out those striped sweaters, dig out that navy tee, and wear your stripes with confidence. You’ve got this.