10 ways to embrace nautical style

The nautical look is not a passing fad but has rather stood the test of time, and remains as a classical timeless style contender. The look traces its origin to 1858 in France, when it became mandatory for sailors to don the Breton stripes, in order to be easily located if they fell overboard.  Coco Chanel is responsible for introducing the design into the fashion world after visiting the French coast. Nautical is more than Breton stripes and everything blue. The nautical look is about marine-inspired details that are incorporated into everyday wear. With summer around the corner, it’s time to embrace the look with subtle pairings and choice pieces to complement your physique and style. Here are 10 tips to keep in mind when dressing nautical:

1. Generally speaking, white, cream, navy and red are typically nautical colours. However, this should not restrict you. Don’t be bound by the ways in which nautical clothing is typically worn, but rather choose to interpret it as it suits you and your style.
2. Nautical clothing is often misinterpreted as an outfit that only entails stripes. This is not the case. Anything that is sailor-inspired (think anchor cufflinks, a double-breasted coat, a leather belt, a shirt with a fish-pattern, boat shoes) can contribute to a nautically-inspired outfit. These items can be subtly worked into an outfit, in order to make them appropriate for any occasion or dress code.
3. Nautical inspiration comes from sailors; therefore it’s about being brave. If you’ve never owned white or red chinos, they are the perfect combination to pair with a striped black and white shirt.
4. Go for chinos that are slim-cut. This suggestion doesn’t only apply to dressing nautical, but rather to any chino purchases. The look is neater and more stream-lined.
5. Rolled up chinos emphasise nautical inspiration. And they show off your shoes, so make sure you pick ones that suit the outfit.
6. Dressing nautical is all about the details. Striped socks are a great way to bring a subtle element of nautical inspiration into your outfit.
7. A black and white striped shirt pairs really well with a navy jacket and pants. The jacket can be alternated with a double-breasted blazer.
8. Accessories like a trilby hat and/or sunglasses are a must. Leather accessories also pair well with the nautical look.
9. If wanting to look broader, a striped t-shirt or sweater that has stripes at the chest and shoulder area will create this effect.
10. A sailing jacket that’s lightweight and waterproof during stormy weather is a great addition. Try bold colours to make a statement.