Anchors Aweigh

Just when you thought your summer footwear roster was complete, a familiar silhouette is resurfacing with an undeniably stylish twist: the boat shoe. Once relegated to the realms of nautical practicality and preppy off-duty dressing, these unassuming kicks are poised to make a decidedly fashionable splash this season.

From Deck to Runway

The journey of the boat shoe is a fascinating one. Emerging from purely functional origins in the 1930s, thanks to Sperry's ingenious grip-enhancing design, they swiftly became a trusted companion for those navigating the high seas. Their evolution into refined leather uppers with signature lacing solidified their position as a comfortable and practical choice, even earning them a place within the U.S. Navy during WWII. For seasons past, however, the boat shoe has often been pigeonholed into a very specific, often casual, lifestyle.

Designer Reinterpretations

Having subtly lingered just beyond the immediate radar of the style cognoscenti, boat shoes have officially resurfaced, now bearing the coveted seal of approval from the fashion vanguard. The spring/summer 2024 collections offered an intriguing preview, with Miu Miu showcasing a distinctly preppy sensibility frequently anchored by beautifully lived-in, brown leather boat shoes – a testament to their unexpected versatility.

The spring/summer 2025 collections have unequivocally cemented this stylish revival, with a diverse and influential range of designers charting a new course for this classic silhouette. From the sophisticated vision of Loewe and Monse, imbuing them with high-fashion polish, to the avant-garde spirit of Collina Strada, where they were embraced with cool subversion, the boat shoe has triumphantly returned to the style forefront.

Styling Inspiration

Forget the predictable pairings of yesteryear. The old style rules simply don't apply. The key to making boat shoes work for the now is embracing polished, unexpected styling that transcends their maritime roots. Consider these directional pairings:

Mini skirts and layered belts

Take a cue from the effortlessly chic Emma Corrin, proving the boat shoe's surprising versatility when styled with sleek, non-nautical separates.

Tailored trousers or wide-leg pants

For a sophisticated, contemporary edge that feels perfectly at home navigating city streets.

Structured jackets or blazers

To inject a dose of refined polish, instantly elevating the inherent casualness of the shoe.

Unexpected accessories

Think statement jewelry or a directional handbag to infuse personality and elevate the entire look to new style heights.