Ship ahoy: The essential guide to nautical dressing
Step aside sailors, the nautical trend is making waves once again this summer
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Summer, as always, has arrived with a fresh wave of seasonal trends – and one that never seems to go adrift is nautical dressing. Not reserved solely for sailors and maritime life, as the name might suggest, today’s coastal-chic aesthetic is polished and refined while being effortlessly relaxed – pretty perfect for warm weather days, then.
So, what makes up the nautical look? Breton stripes, seaside-inspired prints featuring shells, starfish, and anchors, breezy linen, cotton and crochet fabrics, and textured accessories like fisherman sandals and shell jewellery that add a characterful oceanic edge. The colour palette? Crisp whites, deep navy blues and hints of vivid reds. The style is timeless and versatile, whether you’re dressing for city heatwaves, Cornish staycations or Corfu getaways.
Ready to dip your toe into the trend? Below, we’ve put together some of our favourite nautical-inspired pieces to help you embrace the look this summer.
The striped top
Stripes are synonymous with nautical dressing, in particular Breton stripes. Originating in the French navy in the 19th century and traditionally rendered in navy blue and white, the pattern has since become a fashion staple, with everyone from Coco Chanel, the Princess of Wales and Alexa Chung confirmed fans. An easy route to effortless summer style, a striped top is a timeless wardrobe staple that nods to the Cornish coast and the French Riviera and never goes out of fashion. Pair with crisp white linen and sandals for a classic look.
The sailor dress
A sailor-inspired dress offers an elevated take on maritime style, balancing preppy details with easy silhouettes. Think cute collars and clean lines, maxi or mini cuts, and plain or printed designs. Dress up or down with ballet flats or flip flops for a polished nautical look. Aye aye captain.
The co ord
Matching sets are one of summer’s perennially popular outfit choices and play perfectly into the nautical trend. Whether crafted from crochet, linen or cotton, rendered in stripes or shells, they offer breathability and comfort while promising a look that is instantly put together, but requires minimal effort. From a relaxed beachside set or a more polished tailored two-piece, wear as a one-and-done outfit, or style as separates for the ultimate pick-and-mix option.
The sea-inspired prints
From sardines and lobsters to shells and coral motifs, to the classic coastal stripe, sea-inspired prints are everywhere this season. Designers have embraced these playful prints across everything from midi skirts and shorts to tops and shirts, creating pieces that are equal parts fun and sophisticated, and most definitely sunshine-ready.
The Sailor top
Playful patterns don’t quite float your boat (pun intended)? The sailor top offers a more understated look with just the right amount of nautical charm. Similar to the sailor-inspired dress, think elegant boat necklines and scarf detailing for polished, preppy results that will instantly elevate your summer wardrobe.
The fisherman knit
Even in summer it can get a little chilly. Step in the fisherman knit. Choose traditional styles like an Arran, Fair Isle or cable knit, perfect for throwing over your shoulders to take the sea breeze off, while adding a preppy, collegiate feel to your look, it’s the ideal layer for coastal getaways.
The shoes
Continue the nautical trend and deck out your footwear collection with preppy boat shoes or nostalgic fisherman sandals. The former offers a sophisticated and practical alternative to trainers while the latter brings a cool (in both senses) edge. Wear both with shorts and dresses alike, whether at the beach, bar or aboard your yacht.
The swimwear
The nautical trend naturally dips into swimwear too. Think classic navy and white colour palettes, sailor stripes and playful motifs that transport you straight to the French Riviera. Whether you prefer a swimsuit or bikini, these pieces will ensure you make the most stylish splash, both home and away.
The sea-inspired jewellery
The finishing touch? Sea-inspired jewellery. Sculptural shells and fish pendants are really having a moment this season, bringing bold, energetic and playful twists to your summer outfits. Whether set against simple neutral tones to make a statement, or complementing a head-to-toe nautical look, coastal jewellery will instantly transport you to the seaside.
Read more: How to style crochet for summer
