I feel like I have been hunting for the perfect Breton top for forever. Matelot (nautical) stripes in cream and navy are so classic - yet not boring as some "classic pieces" are. They manage to be preppy yet casual, chicly feminine yet boyish. And deliciously French - epitomised by Francoise Hardy, Jane Birkin and Audrey Tatou in Coco Avant Chanel. The breton is also a typical Alexa Chung look - really love the red version she wore recently on her MTV show, is a fresh take on the classic look.
I am particularly lusting after the ones from Burberry's and A.P.C (center and right) and closer to home To Sir With Love's unbelievably soft cashmere sweater. I love the ones where the stripes start from the upper chest - breaks up the intensity a bit.

Sources: Style.com, Net-A-Porter, The Fashion Spot, To Sir With Love,