I remember someone once asked me, "Are striped t-shirts trending this year?" I replied with a grin, "Striped t-shirts never go out of style because they’re always in style." (Yeah, I admit, it’s a bit of a cheeky response.)
Striped T-Shirts: The Timeless Classic
So, what I really meant to say was that Nautical style (also known as sailor style) is rooted in menswear tradition, with striped pieces being the foundation. The signature colors - navy blue, white, and red - are timeless, and they suit just about every guy.
As I mentioned, the enduring appeal of Nautical style means it’s not exactly a "trend." Year after year, brands big and small rework its classic designs and colors to keep it fresh. But no matter how it’s tweaked, Nautical style remains a staple. For me, nothing beats wearing these pieces in the heat of summer - it instantly evokes that feeling of being seaside, surrounded by sun, sand, and sea. 😎
Striped T-Shirts: The Hero Piece
You can’t talk about Nautical style without bringing up the iconic striped t-shirt. Whether you go for navy-and-white stripes, red-and-white, or some combo of both, there’s no wrong choice.
Why do I call it the hero piece? Because I can rock a striped t-shirt with jeans, shorts, or chinos and pair it with sneakers for a casual vibe. Or, I can elevate it by throwing on a light blazer, cuffed pants, and derby shoes for a smart-casual look. This one simple item is endlessly versatile.
And let’s not forget the countless variations of stripes and color combos available these days, adding even more options to this classic.
Nautical Prints: A Nod to the Sea
When it comes to prints, Nautical style adds a touch of personality and sophistication. The anchor is a classic motif, but there are plenty of other prints that channel the sea, like hooks, sailboats, and ship wheels.
You’ll find these prints on everything from t-shirts and polos to shorts and slip-ons. To keep it sharp, I’d recommend sticking with pieces that have a white or navy background and small, tasteful patterns. Think a white tee with blue anchors, or a navy shirt with subtle white embroidery.
Speaking of embroidery, it’s often pricier but adds a more polished look compared to prints - so if you want to splurge, go for embroidered details.
Anchors Sneak Into Everything - Even Your Underwear
Nautical Accessories: The Finishing Touch
Men’s accessories have come a long way, from bracelets and rings to belts and beyond. But with Nautical style, less is more. One or two pieces are all you need to make an impact.
Look for anchor-shaped bracelets, hook-themed necklaces, braided leather or canvas belts - pieces that add a subtle nod to the sea. Pair these with striped tees, shorts, and espadrilles for the full-on sailor vibe.
If you’re into canvas or metal bracelets with anchor details and masculine, sturdy hooks, check out brands like Miansai and Trashness. Miansai leans more upscale, with silver and gold pieces, while Trashness offers more budget-friendly options with canvas and rope styles.
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