About Us: The Story of Saint James & stjameswear.com
Welcome to stjameswear.com, your premier online destination for the iconic French clothing brand, Saint James. More than just a retailer, we are passionate curators and devoted admirers of a brand that is woven into the very fabric of maritime history and timeless style. Our mission is simple: to bring the authentic, unparalleled quality and heritage of Saint James directly to you.
A Heritage Woven in Marinières: The Saint James Story
To understand our passion, you must first appreciate the remarkable history of the garments we offer. The story of Saint James began in 1850 in the small town of Saint-James, Normandy, a region shaped by the sea. Initially producing durable woolen socks for local sailors, the company soon evolved to meet a very specific need: a sweater that could withstand the harsh conditions of the Atlantic while ensuring the safety of those who braved it.
In 1889, Saint James created the first-ever marinière, the legendary striped sailor shirt. This wasn’t merely a fashion statement; it was an official regulation adopted by the French Navy. The distinctive indigo and white stripes were designed to make sailors more visible if they fell overboard. The shirt was made from a dense, warm cotton jersey called “laine de Saint-James” (the wool of Saint James), offering unparalleled protection against wind and water. Every detail, from the 21 white stripes (said to represent each of Napoleon’s victories) to the slightly longer back for extra coverage, was born from pure utility.
This rich heritage of quality and purpose is what drew us to Saint James. We believe that true style is not about fleeting trends, but about garments with a story, built to last.
Our Curatorial Passion at stjameswear.com
At stjameswear.com, we have carefully selected the very best of the Saint James collections. We don’t just see these as shirts and sweaters; we see them as pieces of wearable history. Our collection features the classic marinières in various cuts and colors, from the traditional navy and white to seasonal hues that maintain the brand’s timeless elegance. We also offer their exceptional wool sweaters, polo shirts, and accessories, each item upholding the same standards of craftsmanship that have defined the brand for over 170 years.
What sets a Saint James garment apart is unmistakable:
- Authentic Manufacturing: Every piece is still proudly made in France, many within a 30-kilometer radius of the original factory in Normandy.
- Uncompromising Quality: The fabrics are dense, the stripes are perfectly aligned at the seams, and the construction is robust, ensuring your garment becomes a long-term companion.
- Timeless Design: A Saint James piece transcends seasons and trends. It is a foundational item that grows more characterful with age.
Your Destination for Authentic French Style
We founded stjameswear.com to be more than a shop; we are a resource for those who appreciate the intersection of history, quality, and effortless style. Whether you are a long-time devotee of the brand or discovering it for the first time, we are here to guide you. The perfect marinière is not just about size, but about finding a fit that offers the right balance of comfort and classic silhouette.
Thank you for visiting stjameswear.com. We invite you to explore our collection and experience the enduring appeal of Saint James. Embrace a piece of French history, and invest in a style that truly stands the test of time.