Stripes in Men’s Wear: How to Mix Them with Prints

A Guide for Button-Front Shirts, T-Shirts, and Raglan Tees

Stripes have always been a staple in men’s wardrobes, from classic pinstripe suits to bold nautical tees. But when it comes to mixing stripes with other prints, the rules of balance and proportion matter. Here’s how men can wear stripes confidently—and when bold choices really pay off.

Stripes on Button-Front Shirts

Small/Narrow Stripes (1/16"–1/4")

Ideal for dress shirts. Pinstripes or narrow vertical stripes are professional, slimming, and timeless.

Pair well with solid ties or even bold-patterned ties, since the fine stripe acts as a neutral.

Medium Stripes (1/2")

Common in casual button-downs like Oxford shirts. These stripes feel relaxed and are easy to wear with jeans or chinos.

Bold Stripes (1" and above)

Found in resort shirts or fashion-forward styles. Best for casual wear and vacation looks.

👉 Mixing Tip: With button shirts, small stripes mix best with bold ties or jackets. Large stripes are already a statement and should be paired with solids or very subtle prints.

Stripes on Men’s T-Shirts

Small Stripes

Think navy-and-white sailor stripes. Classic, versatile, and flattering.

Easy to pair with solid shorts, jeans, or even a patterned jacket.

Medium to Bold Stripes

Casual and youthful. Wide stripes give off a sporty, relaxed feel.

Popular in streetwear and everyday fashion.

👉 Mixing Tip: Medium stripes can work with larger prints if the colors coordinate. Bold stripes, however, should usually stay the star of the outfit.

Raglan-Sleeved T-Shirts

Striped Sleeves + Solid Body: Athletic and modern. Works best with small stripes (1/4" or narrower).

Wide Striped Sleeves: Adds a sporty, youthful vibe. Pair with solid pants for balance.

Striped Body + Solid Sleeves: Stronger visual impact; keep the stripes narrow for a flattering effect.

Can Men Mix Stripes with Bold Prints?

Yes — but scale matters.

Best Pairing: Small stripes with bold prints (like floral shorts, plaid ties, or graphic jackets). The contrast in scale keeps the look intentional.

Sometimes Works: Medium stripes with medium prints — only if colors match well.

Risky: Large stripes with bold prints. This combination usually clashes and is best left to runway or streetwear looks where “fashion-forward” is the goal.

👉 Rule of Thumb: In men’s wear, stripes should usually be the backdrop, while the print takes center stage.

For button shirts: Small stripes = professional and versatile. Bold stripes = casual or vacation-ready.

For t-shirts: Narrow stripes are timeless, bold stripes are sporty and fun.

For raglan tees: Stripe placement on the sleeves is modern and flattering, especially in 1/4" or smaller stripes.

For mixing prints: Stick with small stripes as the partner to bold prints. Leave large stripe + bold print combos to adventurous fashion.

Want to sew stripes into your menswear projects? Browse pattern designs and fabrics in my sewing shop and my Payhip store. Don’t forget to subscribe to The Needle Market for sewing insights, tutorials, and styling tips! You will find the subscription box below in the footer!