Impossible to miss: the Breton shirt is everywhere. In minimalist wardrobes, weekend suitcases, fashion campaigns, stylish streets — and of course, at Capitaine D’a Bord. With its Breton stripes and naturally cool look, it embodies casual French elegance all by itself. Classic, without ever being boring; graphic, without overdoing it. It crosses seasons, trends, and eras with disarming ease. But before becoming this fashion icon that we put on with our eyes closed, the Breton shirt followed a path as rigorous as its lines.

From maritime origins to the world of fashion

You may not know it, but this Breton shirt you wear so naturally hides a deeply rooted history. Officially codified in 1858 as the uniform of the French national navy, it was not fashionable at all back then: its stripes, 21 white, 20 blue, very precisely, were used to spot sailors who fell overboard. Practical above all, then. But it didn't take long before fashion took hold of it. Coco Chanel gave it a place on the runways as early as the 1910s, and since then, it has continuously inspired stylists, icons, and creators. 

Today, the marinière has traded its strictly utilitarian image to become the unofficial uniform of effortless chic. Whether worn tucked into straight jeans or thrown over linen shorts, it has that je-ne-sais-quoi timeless quality that works every time.

Why does the marinière remain timeless?

The marinière has that legendary versatility that few pieces can claim. It transforms according to your desires: casual with faded jeans, sophisticated under a structured blazer, bohemian with a flowing long skirt. This exceptional adaptability partly explains its longevity in our wardrobes.

Beyond its versatility, this piece tells the story of French maritime heritage, an authentic legacy that continues to fascinate designers and fashion lovers. Each season brings its reinterpretations — unexpected colors, revisited cuts, surprising collaborations — but the original essence remains intact, proof of its truly timeless character.

Choosing your marinière well: cut, material, style

The quality of materials: the non-negotiable element

The choice of fabric entirely determines the experience you will have with your marinière. Cotton remains the absolute reference, especially in its interlock or piqué versions which offer the perfect density between comfort, breathability, and durability over time. These tighter knits maintain their original shape even after several washes.

The place of manufacture often reveals the quality of the final product. A marinière made according to French or European traditions generally features superior finishing, reinforced seams, and that attention to detail that transforms a basic into an exceptional piece.

The iconic codes of the marinière

• The boat neckline : This iconic horizontal neckline elongates the silhouette and brings that characteristic nautical elegance.
  
  

• The universal fit : Look for a straight or slightly fitted cut that flatters without tightening, with a length that allows layering.
  
  

• Finishes : Neat hems, flat seams, stitch durability — these details reveal quality craftsmanship.
  
  

• Style variations : Long-sleeved marinière, t-shirt version, sweater-like knit or even cardigan... the marinière now comes in a multitude of styles to suit all seasons and desires.

Armor-Lux: Breton excellence that redefines the marinière

When talking about exceptional marinières, it is impossible to overlook Armor-Lux. This Breton house founded in Quimper in 1938 embodies the excellence of French maritime tradition. Their approach? To perpetuate a century-old know-how with a quality requirement that borders on perfection.

What distinguishes Armor-Lux

Armor-Lux stands out first by its deeply responsible manufacturing approach: 40% of their production remains in Brittany, preserving this unique local know-how passed down from generation to generation. This geographical proximity guarantees exceptional quality control and supports the local Breton economy.

The selection of raw materials at Armor-Lux is a qualitative obsession: fair trade cotton, high-density interlock, noble piqué chosen for their ability to improve with time rather than degrade. At the same time, the brand cultivates constant innovation while scrupulously respecting traditional codes - new color harmonies, subtly modernized cuts, creative collaborations that reveal the marinière in a contemporary light.

Armor-Lux x Capitaine D'a Bord

When an iconic house from the Breton coast meets a Quebec brand with a strong style, the result can only be desirable. To celebrate its 40th anniversary, Capitaine D’a Bord unveils an exclusive collaboration with Armor-Lux: a (very) limited edition marinière — only 150 copies for the fastest.

Made in France from ultra-soft interlock cotton (and yes, it is machine washable), our men's and women's marinières combine classic elegance and urban spirit. Notice its signature details: discreet lettering, embroidered patch on the sleeve, and a flawless cut that adapts to all life rhythms. Between heritage and modernity, a piece designed to last; and to stand out without overdoing it.

Armor-Lux X Le Capitaine D'a Bord - Women's Marinière 

Conclusion

The marinière represents the ultimate smart fashion investment. More than a basic, it is a piece that transcends years and trends, adapting to the evolution of your personal style. Versatile, durable, and always current, it instantly elevates every outfit, from everyday wear to more stylish occasions. Choosing a quality marinière like those from Armor-Lux means choosing French excellence and artisanal know-how.

For fashion enthusiasts in Quebec and across Canada, discover the collection Armor-Lux as well as our wide selection of women's marinières and for men's, available at Capitaine D’a Bord, your local store in the heart of Quebec.