There’s a new style mood building for spring 2025. It’s decidedly preppy, leans into upper-class American and British sporting pursuits, and has something of a 1990’s-celebrity-on-the-run-wearing-penny-loafers elegance to it. A look this distinct needs a laid-back – but not too casual – striped top to complete it.
Enter the striped rugby shirt, which looks set to slide seamlessly into the rotation previously dominated by the Breton striped T-shirt. Think David Hockney – a lifelong wearer of rugbies in clashing, bright colours – not Picasso.
What makes them feel so “right now” are their playfully graphic wide stripes and upbeat sporty colours. In its collection, Marks & Spencer has found the perfect balance with rugby tops in wide sky-blue or grass-green stripes (£29.50).
Anthropologie’s version comes in brown and lavender (£98) and, of course, don’t overlook classic sports outfitters such as Brian Oak in classic navy, burgundy and yellow stripes (£45). A long version by up-and-coming British designer Talia Byre is a more luxurious take at £275.
Another compelling reason the rugby top makes an ideal update – or wardrobe rediscovery – for spring 2025 and beyond lies in its provenance. While the Breton is all T-shirt, the design roots of a rugby top lie with a classic Oxford shirt. This gives it the smartness of a shirt without the stiffness, and the laid-back elegance of a sweatshirt with an added collar.
Ideal preppy-adjacent attire.
It’s rare to find a piece of clothing that fits the brief for both octogenarian artists and the mood of style today. So, what are you waiting for? Join the scrum.
