Nautical style is usually defined using the words classic, timeless, or iconic. It also brings to mind picturesque vacations and leisurely weekends. Maybe that’s why nautical style seems to keep popping up, year after year, from Target racks to Fashion Week runways. Whether you’re just discovering your fondness for clean lines and breathable textiles, or you’re a veteran sailor with a year-round tan, here are some fashionable and functional nautical pieces you might consider integrating into your repertoire this spring. 



I’ll Be Racerback Tank – $29.99 From Modcloth

Stripes with a twist. Nautical stripes are an easy thing to get overloaded on. Their classic appeal originated in Europe with shirts like the Saint James pullover, but we have to change it up to keep the style exciting, and I think this tank is a great option. It’s a super-breezy racerback, cut in a way that flatters most physiques, and it can be easily dressed up or down.

3″ Chino Shorts, $45.00 from J.Crew

Chino shorts. These shorts come in a huge variety of colors and lengths, from tame to bright and cropped to modest. You can find them on factory sale on weekends online or in the store for around $30. I live in these in the summer. They’re indestructible, comfortable, and really flattering.


Vans T&L Era 59 - $55.00 from Vans

Deck shoes. I often order from the men’s section on the Vans website. I find that, while they carry small enough sizes in men’s styles to accommodate women on their site, they often don’t list them under the women’s shopping section. So, technically these are men’s shoes, but I definitely think they translate. They also come in navy, and they’re really utilitarian. I’ve always been pleased with the quality of Vans I’ve bought. Sperry Topsiders are also a great option, but I’ve been disappointed with their quality in the last few pairs I’ve worn out.

Hot, $120.00 from Piperlime

Great sunnies. You can always opt for a pair of tortoise-shell frames from a cheaper place, but I like to think of sunglasses as an investment piece. These adorably gender-neutral sunnies from Carrera are a great way to blend fashion and function for your next sailing adventure… or outdoor lunch. 

Wing-Collared Blazer – $99.90 from Zara

A great blazer. It is still that touchy-temperature-zone of spring. The temp can swing nearly 20 degrees from afternoon to night sometimes, so it’s good to be prepared. Plus, a blazer with shorts is a totally underrated look. Seriously.

I think my favorite part about nautical style is that you don’t have to adhere to it completely. It’s not like your whole spring wardrobe has to revolve around these five elements, but the polished appeal of nautical pieces can complement the rest of your wardrobe nicely. So mix and match, and definitely use the crisp lines to your advantage — looking put-together and effortless never goes out of style. Take a look at other nautical inspiration in the gallery!

Do you integrate nautical style into your wardrobe? What are your favorite nautical pieces?