Sea inspirations for summer – what is the nautical style and how to combine it with your outfits?

Nautical style – where does it come from?

The nautical style for both men and women draws inspiration from the outfits of mariners, sailors and ship captains. French navy sailors wore white shirts with red stripes, which made them more visible against the sea horizon. The shirts were made from high quality materials, such as wool and cotton, their shape ensured full freedom of movement during challenges on warships.

The nautical style for women was popularized by Coco Chanel, a French designer, who promoted simple design and subdued colours. Even though her style is usually associated with a timeless elegance, the look by Chanel was also dominated by white T-shirts with navy blue stripes and elbow-length sleeves, which became the characteristic features of the nautical style.

The combination of comfort and elegance are the elements, which distinguish the nautical style. Wearing a nautical style is like coming off the deck of a yacht rocking on the waves off the coast of Saint-Tropez, casually, with a touch of elegance, in harmonious shades of white, navy blue and red, which always look fresh and classy.

Read more: Cottagecore – what are the characteristics of the style inspired by nature?

The nautical style - which elements are worth including in your wardrobe?

Do you want to create a styling in a nautical style, but you aren’t sure which colours or patterns you should choose? We’ve prepared a short guide, which will allay your doubts. From now on, creating a holiday styling in a nautical style will be an expression of a holiday mood, rather than a fashion challenge, which can’t be surpassed.

Colours and patterns, which dominate the nautical style

Let’s start from colours. The basic colours in nautical stylings are white and navy blue, which represent the blue sky and navy blue ocean. Other main colours are black and red. Another characteristic element of the nautical style are stripes, which can vary in widths. Which ones are the best? A lot depends on your body type. Those struggling with excess weight will definitely look better in narrow belts. Wide ones will optically add weight..

Navy-blue and white T-shirt in a nautical style is a basis, but if you want to create a marina look, opt for knots, anchors or boats. However, it’s important to keep moderation and combine nautical patterns with another minimalist garment, e.g. anchor motif shorts with a plain white T-shirt.

Fabrics in a nautical style

The marina style is mainly for summer, so the nautical clothes should be made from natural fabrics, which are lightweight and breathable. Cotton, linen, viscose or wool will serve you well. Such materials ensure breathability and will make you feel comfortable even on hot summer days.

Cuts in the marina style

Even though the marina style isn’t a part of formal dress code, it has a distinguished elegance - light colours, clear lines and classic cuts make the nautical outfits universal.

White cropped trousers, linen shirts, navy blue blazers, straight cut skirts and striped dresses are the main features of this style Additionally, polo shirts for both men and women in classic colours: white, navy blue, red or blue. They look great with shorts, chinos, jeans or light skirts.

Shirt dresses, jumpsuits with belts or blouses with yachting details such as gold buttons, stand-up collar or delicate straps. Men can opt for light chino trousers, button-down shirts and light jumpers or cardigans.

See the collection of women’s polo and men’s T-shirts with characteristic collars.

Shoes in the nautical style by S’portofino

What kind of shoes go with the nautical style? Obviously those that are right for the boat, such as soft moccasins or loafer shoes, which are offered by the Brazilian brand Cariuma or French brand TBS. To achieve a more formal look, oxfords will work well. When it comes to women's outfits, espadrilles, sandals with braided soles such as those by Manebi and sandals on platforms will be the best options.

Accessories in the marina style

Accessories will complete any marina look. They will add a unique vibe to both women’s and men’s outfits. When it comes to headwear, navy blue or white caps by Varsity will work well, summer dresses and sets can be matched with wide beach hats, e.g by Catarzi 1910.

When it comes to bags, woven baskets or canvas shoppers with anchors or ropes are very often chosen by ladies. Dragon Diffusion offers hand-woven bags, which will complete your nautical look. Gentlemen can opt for functional sailing backpacks in white, navy blue or red.

Jewellery is also a very important element. Women’s stylings can be paired with rope bracelets or earrings in the shapes of anchors. Watches with webbing straps and nautical-style leather bracelets are worn by men.

Sunglasses often feature in nautical styles, as well as scarves and shawls - lightweight, striped or red bandanas - worn around the neck, in the hair or as a decoration next to a bag.

Nautical style - styling for men and women

The marina style can be worn by both men and women. What’s more, the cut of women’s clothes often resemble men's so you can create matching outfits. We've put together some inspiration to make creating a navy look even easier.

Nautical styling for women in a classic style: white trousers and a striped sweater

Stripes are the most characteristic elements of a marina look. Woolen sweater with stripes by Allude can be paired with white trousers. If you want to create an elegant styling, opt for trousers with a crease, if you prefer a nonchalant effect, choose airy linen trousers. Combine them with woven sliders, which will add a holiday vibe to the styling. Simple, classy, in the best quality, just the way we like it.

Women’s styling - navy blue dress with white stripes - the essence of the marine style

For the fans of holiday dresses in the nautical style, we offer a navy blue dress by Helly Hansen, which is famous for its yachting collections. It isn’t just quality, but also style, which ideally represents the atmosphere of the Mediterranean summer. This dress, inspired by a nautical style will look great with universal sneakers and can be worn not only in a sea resort but also in the city.

Men's styling: white shorts and blue polo shirt

Polo shirts are a signature piece for nautical styles that are perfect for summer days by the seaside. Opt for a blue knitted polo shirt by BOSS. This will not only work for a summer look, but also for a smart casual style. Complete the outfit with white shorts and timeless white sneakers for city strolls. If you're more into cruising the marina, opt for soft moccasins.

Men's look: dark blue trousers and linen shirt.

Linen trousers are the very essence of summer style. They combine comfort, lightness and subtle elegance. They look exceptionally chic in a nautical look, especially if you opt for a navy blue model like the one by Lino 120%. The navy blue goes perfectly with white, so complement the look with a light, long-sleeved linen shirt - preferably slightly oversized, with nonchalantly rolled up cuffs. Classic white shoes complete the look. Opt for minimalist sneakers or espadrilles for a laid-back Mediterranean outfit. Go for a braided belt or a leather strap watch. Perfect for a stroll by the promenade, lunch at a seaside restaurant or a summer meeting in town.

Mediterranean fashion - a summary

The nautical style will look best in summer, on vacation in a charming seaside resort. However, there's nothing stopping you from spending the summer in the city in these styles, giving it a Mediterranean twist. It's sporty, comfortable and on-trend. For a nautical look, opt for classic pieces such as navy and white striped shirts, polo shirts in white, blue or red, shorts, airy trousers, white shirts and dresses in lightweight fabrics. Don't forget the must have accessories - scarves, baseball caps, straw hats, jewellery with nautical motifs and comfortable shoes. Create your own look and tell your summer story with us - full of sunshine, freedom and timeless nautical style.