The classic pinstripe suit is making a comeback

If you thought the pattern was confined to finance fashion history, think again

John Lawrence Sullivan autumn/winter 2018

When you think of pinstripes, the image that enters your mind might look a little like something out of The Wolf of Wall Street, or even American Psycho for that matter.

Over the years the pattern has become synonymous with the financiers and alpha males who adopted it in the 1980s, most typically with a set of scarlet red braces to boot.

However, when the financial crisis of 2008 hit, pinstripes paled into insignificance. After all, who in their right mind would dare to be seen in the unofficial uniform of bent bankers?

Of course in fashion terms, this meant that the pattern was ripe for reinvention.

In an industry that makes a habit out of breathing new life into pieces we once wouldn’t dream of wearing – think bumbags, cowboy boots and corduroy – 10 years after the banking collapse, designers have finally brought pinstripes back from sartorial Siberia.

In true high-fashion style, though: for autumn/winter 2018 the pinstripe hasn’t resurfaced in its original form.

Instead, what once made for a rigid look has now become loose and easy, and ready for almost any occasion.

Dolce & Gabbana, Pinstriped Virgin Wool-Blend Trousers, £575, Matches Fashion

At Alexander McQueen, a collection which set out to explore British masculinity made way for a number of pinstripe suits with a modern silhouette that nipped at the waist and pushed out at the shoulders.

Similarly, John Lawrence Sullivan and Alex Mullins both showcased a selection of smart suits, paired with everything from deconstructed shirting to shades and chunky trainers.

Short-Sleeved Pinstriped Shirt, £55, Cos

It was at Virgil Abloh’s Off-White though that the pattern struck the perfect balance between business and casual with sleek striped jackets and roomy pants worn with oversized T-shirts and slouchy sweaters.

When it comes to real life wear, the easiest way to wear a pinstripe is to invest in separates rather than a traditional two-piece.

Grey Pinstripe Smart Joggers, £38, Topman

In this case, we’d suggest picking up a pair of trousers in a classic cut and slight crop that can be dressed up with a shirt or given a low-fi fashion twist with white trainers and a plain tee.

De Bonne Facture, Tapered Pinstripe Cotton and Wool-Blend Drawstring Trousers, £310, Mr Porter

Navy Pinstripe Ultra Skinny Suit, £160, Topman