What to wear a Marcel with?

The Marcel, tank top or sleeveless undershirt born in 1860 in the Halles of Paris, has moved from the shadows to the spotlight by becoming the shirt. Highly positioned in the trendy tops scale, it is now embraced on all occasions, and presents itself in all colors, as long as it's worn with style. For men and women alike, in summer as well as in autumn, the Marcel is available like the tank top called desire.

The Marcel: the most iconic tank top

Since its invention by an industrious worker from the Halles of Paris in the 19th century, the Marcel has been a part of soldiers' uniforms, from the US Navy to Poilus, later including the American G.I.s. In France, the cap maker Roannais Marcel Eisenberg, from the Etablissements Marcel, felt the good clothing plan for men and mass-produced this cotton undershirt, or sleeveless t-shirt, quickly giving it a name on everyone's lips. The first vacationers of the RN7 made it, like the blue collars, a classic of popular culture. The consecration came in the 50s/60s, when testosterone-rich icons transformed it into a mass attraction weapon that leaves you craving more. While Marlon Brando drips with sweat in his tank top, the erotic tension of the Marcel takes root in the minds and men are eager to snatch it up. Bruce Willis adds to the appeal, with no shirts, and certainly not too much color. Modern amazons join in, from Sigourney Weaver to Lara Croft, and the emancipated woman becomes a woman in Marcel. Once connoted as the "poor relative" of a kitschy wardrobe, the Marcel is now a must-have of the cool attitude. Elected Tank Top among tank tops. But then, what happened for it to be worn with every pair of jeans, every pair of chinos, and every tram named desire? Style, Martoni, always style. Essential.

Man’s version of Marcel: the casual fashion

For men, it’s impossible to overlook, the men's tank top is to the casual look what stripes are to the sailor shirt, the base. Yes, very well, but how to wear it without being elected Mister Camping of the Blue Waves or reminding you of Grandpa Roro on vacation? By working on the associations… of benefactors, to make it the king of tops: impeccable hygiene, trendy color, shape tailored to your morphology (the slimmer you are, the more fitted the size is, and vice versa), generally informal attire. In summer, the Marcel/bermuda or linen pant/suspenders/sunglasses/hat combination with a pair of sneakers, espadrilles, or flip-flops is clearly the chic version of the relaxed look. In autumn, the Marcel can regain its undershirt role by displaying under a shirt (which it will prolong the lifespan of by protecting it from sweat) worn with chinos or boyfriend jeans, washed or not, city sneakers, derbies, or loafers. In the evening, the tank top dethrones the polo and easily shifts to "dressed" mode: opt for well-tailored pants, elegant shoes, a black or white Marcel, a shirt, a blazer, or a leather jacket and you're good to go. Just let your magnetism work.

Woman’s version of Marcel: top with high added value

Ladies, the tank top for women from Tricots Marcel is yours. And clothing combinations abound to avoid the "gym" effect. Once reserved for the male wardrobe, the tank top, undershirt or tank top raises its fist with all free-spirited women who want a stylish and comfortable look. To wear it alone, but preferably in good company, choose wide straps if your shoulders are wide, and thin straps or a racerback if you have a petite build. Simple, effective, and relaxed, the cotton Marcel (most of the time) gets the job done in all circumstances without knowing seasons, whether worn loose or fitted: with boyfriend or mom jeans, denim shorts, high-waisted pants, overalls, a pinafore dress, or even a mini-skirt. Paired with sneakers, sandals, boots, or even heels for a chic touch, it gives you carte blanche on style. Worn under a blazer, an open blouse, an asymmetrical neckline merino wool sweater, a loose cardigan, or a jumpsuit, it becomes the indispensable undershirt for the autumn/winter season. Yes, but an undershirt that is visible and can be confidently worn. While waiting for summer and the parade in broad daylight, the Marcel finds its way into women’s lives and is, more than ever, a basic that does them good.