Liz, unfortunately there is no argument on Earth that will sway these guys from these shirts and the uniforms. It's a good thing I love this crew as I do for otherwise I might mutiny *Grin*

(I have considered using fabric paint to make diagonal stripes though.)

I know of no tradition of stripes for sailors except, maybe, in the military ships. The regular able bodied sailor just wore whatever rags he could afford. The stripes, I believe, are a fantasy concocted by the writers of plays and novels.

Thanks to everyone for these sources. I may not have to wear the same shirt repeatedly at a festival some day.