Hey sailor!

I wanted to introduce you, in time for Fathers' Day (or for your own wear), to a terrific boutique that carries jaunty Breton sailors' shirts, if you don't know about them already.

The Breton shirt, officially created by the 27th March 1858 Act, introduced this blue-and-white striped knit shirt in the uniform list of the French seaman. The stripe allowed a man fallen into the sea to be located more easily.

Unlike LL Bean, who make serviceable but less substantial models, this is the real deal, from Brittany Boutique, in a wide range of sizes and styles.

Le Duc has a half-dozen, ranging from the traditional navy/white to offbeat combinations like khaki/orange, fuscia/pink, or burgundy/theatre curtain red.

Hipper than a sweatshirt, hardy and flattering, the older they get, the better they look. Brittany Boutique carry various styles and brands for men, women and tiny sailors, as well as other maritime items. The mens' models are unisex, order a size down for women.

But the one you want for your captain is the Meridien genuine traditional Breton Sailor Shirt, in heavy cotton knit. I especially like the hand of this fabric: not a fleece, thicker than a polo shirt, with a rather dry finish. You just don't find utilitarian but high-quality fabric like this anymore.

Price, about $52 US per shirt. You don't have to be a sailor! Perfect for buzzing around town, cycling, walking the dog or a casual dinner out.

Prompt, precise service from the site, shipping world-wide, and friendly communication, in English if you choose.