Stripes

Stripes are patterns composed of elongated bands of color that run in a particular direction, often contrasting with the areas around them. They can be straight or curved, vertical or horizontal, and vary from narrow pinstripes to broad bands. Stripes occur across nature, textiles, design, and visual media.

In nature, many species display stripes, including zebras (black and white), tigers (orange and black), and certain bees and wasps (black and yellow). Some fish and snakes also show striped patterns. The functions of animal stripes are varied and debated; they may provide disruptive camouflage in complex environments, aid in social signaling, reduce parasite loads, or influence thermoregulation. Different species may use stripes for different reasons, and multiple explanations can apply to a single pattern.

In human culture, stripes appear in clothing, art, and architecture. Nautical and Breton striped shirts are well known, and pinstripes are common in business attire. Stripes are also used as design elements to create rhythm, imply movement, or convey form. In safety and public spaces, striped markings — such as crosswalks or warning tapes — are used to improve visibility and convey information.

In perception and optics, stripes can affect the way surfaces are perceived, with orientation and contrast influencing apparent width or length and producing visual illusions. Stripes are a widespread, versatile pattern with ecological, cultural, and aesthetic significance across many domains.