very brief history of stripes

I've always loved a good stripe—whether on a 1950s house awning, a French-themed fancy dress, or a classic pinstripe suit. But stripes didn’t always have such a stylish reputation. I just finished reading Stripes: A History by William Grange. Who knew this classy textile pattern came from very humble beginnings.

In the past, stripes were associated with punishment and marginalization. During the Middle Ages, prisoners and lepers were forced to wear striped clothing as a visible mark of shame and separation from society. The pattern became a symbol of criminality and exclusion, signaling to the public that someone was an outsider.

Stripes were also common among the lower classes, as inexpensive, horizontal striped garments were often worn by peasants and laborers. The pattern further reinforced social divisions, marking people as impoverished or marginalized. Even jesters, who were considered societal outcasts, wore striped costumes.

While stripes have since evolved into a chic and timeless design, their historical associations with shame, punishment, and class distinction reveal a deeper, more complex story. What began as a marker of social exclusion has transformed into a symbol of style and sophistication.