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What do my dad and Miu Miu’s SS26 runway show have in common? It’s not a question I thought I’d find myself ever asking, but the answer is boat shoes. It turns out both parties have the trusty flat back on their radars this summer.
Now, boat shoes are no new invention – they were first created in 1935 by American sailor Paul Sperry. When Sperry noticed his cocker spaniel didn’t slip onboard his boat, but he did, he took matters into his own hands and came up with a practical solution: the first non-slip, non-marking deck shoe with sturdy rubber soles.
Boat shoes soon became the go-to footwear for those on water, from Navy sailors during World War II to yachting enthusiasts. Fast forward a few years, and they crept into mainstream fashion, proving this style goes far beyond just nautical gear. While typically associated with men roaming around Sloane Square or, it seems, my dad, designers such as Tod’s, Prada and Miu Miu all made a case for boat shoes in their SS26 shows – this time for women.
Preppy and cool, with a collegiate feel, boat shoes are rivalling ballet flats as the must-have flat shoe for women this summer. While staying true to their functional, anti-slip, comfortable origins, they’re also very versatile, making them one of the hardest-working styles on your shoe rack. Wear with shorts and a T-shirt for an easy warm-weather casual ensemble, team with your favourite denim for a more polished, athletic look or pair with this season’s growing trend for capri pants for some classic Audrey Hepburn chic. Happen to be sailing the Greek Islands or the Isle of Wight on your own yacht? Then so much the better.
Feeling inspired? Shop our edit below of the best boat shoes to buy now.
Bally Pavlin leather boat shoes
Is it a loafer? Is it a boat shoe? A hybrid design that ticks all the boxes for smart summer dressing.
Prada Shuffle Antiqued boat loafers
Prada’s reimagination of the boat shoe is feminine and fun with a fresh neutral colourway, ideal for warm days.
Claudie Pierlot lace-up suede boat shoes
Add some height with Claudie Pierlot, complete with vibrant laces for a pop of colour.
Ancient Greek Sandals Pliaria raffia boat shoes
Combining raffia and leather, this breezy design is made for wearing on sun-drenched summer holidays.
Read more: The best shorts for women
