Since 1889 Saint James has been drawing inspiration from the sea facing, windswept land of sailors sandwiched between Normandy and Brittany. Not far away from the beautiful Mont Saint-Michel.
This french region is well known for a centuries old textile and knitting tradition and Saint James began knitting the famous sailor sweater in the 19th century. A woolen sweater that tightly knitted that it was considered to be wind- and waterproof and perfect for the people facing the freezing cold seas of the North Atlantic.
Soon the world famous nautical striped tees and long sleeves followed, must-have basics that have boosted the reputation of Saint James to worldwide well known and respected brand. Timeless pieces advanced to owners favorites, timeless and authentic easy-wear.
A military ruling in 1858 introduced the striped tee to the official wardrobe of quartermasters and sailors in the French Navy with its very specific characteristics: 21 white stripes measuring 20mm and 20 or 21 blue stripes measuring 10mms.
The 20th century brought the nautical motif into daily life. Especially creatives and intellectuals made the striped shirts a fashion must-have.
Saint James’ production process today is an optimized, fully authentic legacy from a more than a century old craftsmanship.
Saint James symbolizes a very unique, iconic and historical piece of clothing, proud to still produce every single piece in France!