Graphic, chic and timeless, nautical stripes are once again back in fashion this season. There is nothing that screams summer more than French sailor stripes.

Nautical stripes are one of the most minimalist patterns and look great when combined with classic pieces like blazers and high-waisted trousers. But my advice would be to try to think out-of-the-box this season and take the pattern to a whole new level of form and function.

They can be best worn as tees, tops, blouses or also can look best as shorts, cardigan, hair bands. The ensembles can stand out the best when striped shorts and plain tees are teamed up with bright effervescent colour belts or shoes. Also a striped chiffon blouse teamed with skinny navy blue jeans and bright and bold accessories like red pumps or red belt will add oomph and make you stand out in the crowd.

If you want to keep it simple and sober for the day, you can always go for a short cotton dress teamed with solid bright accessory to add that touch of glam quotient. Not to forget not all body sizes or shapes can carry this. Nautical stripes look best on tall, thin and lean people. People who are heavy and are a bit big should avoid wearing nautical striped tops or jeans as it would attract attention to all the unwanted flab. Also such apparel should be avoided in winter as it is more of a spring/summer trend.

The writer is a Mumbai-based designer