I should like those Saint James/Breton style shirts (sometimes called marinière or tricot marin too I believe). I'm a bit of a Francophile, like nautical-y stuff, they have a great backstory... even have time for Jean Paul Gaultier and he loves the damn things. Just too boat necked/drop shouldered for me... look great on ladies. The sweater version, ok that might work.
This *ahem* homage below made by JCrew looks good to me though. Yes a bit of fakery but doesn't hit you over the head like the original. Sacrilege to some no doubt. Will look even better on sale.