Preppy, classic and salty - embrace the timeless sailing style

There's something about the classic sailing style that never seems to go out of fashion – and rightly so. When we speak of the so-called sailing style, sometimes referred to as Nautical fashion, where influences are drawn from a maritime-inspired, relaxed preppy aesthetic, we find ourselves in an interesting borderland between tradition and design. It is not a strictly defined style with fixed rules, but rather a timeless source of inspiration carrying a legacy rooted in both fashion history and iconic brands.

The Sailing Style: A Stylistic Interpretation of Life at Sea

Several of the core elements of the sailing style have their roots in functional garments, created with a clear purpose: to serve at sea. The classic peacoat – originally a British naval coat – the chunky wool jumpers to keep warm on board, durable jackets for weather-beaten decks, rubber boots for rainy days, and of course the striped tops originating from the French navy. Even the boat shoe – today a natural part of many wardrobes – was developed in the 1930s by Paul A. Sperry to provide better grip on slippery boat decks.

At some point during the 20th century, a shift occurred: maritime garments stepped into the world of fashion. What were once purely functional clothes, designed to withstand the elements at sea, began to carry something more. Perhaps it was no coincidence that these garments, with their clean lines, classic cuts, and natural colour schemes, collectively formed an aesthetic that felt both effortless and sea-close. Let’s dive deeper into the style!

John F. Kennedy aboard a U.S. Coast Guard boat at Hammersmith Farm, Rhode Island, 1962 – a moment from the American East Coast with sails in the wind and a style that has become timelessly classic.

John F. Kennedy quickly became a style icon for this relaxed yet sophisticated look, often photographed aboard his sailboat Victura in the waters off Hyannis Port, Cape Cod Massachusetts. Through him, the sailing style was associated with an American lifestyle marked by freedom and tasteful simplicity. In the decades that followed, the look was reinforced by several style-setting personalities who wore maritime garments with ease. At the same time, brands such as Ralph Lauren shaped the image of maritime style, transforming it into a permanent part of the fashion world  – with clear connections to American preppy culture.

A Dream of Coastal Life and Stylish Summers

As this spring and summer's collections arrive in stores, a clear theme emerges: striped shirts in white, blue and red, sea-inspired motifs, sun-bleached colours, and new interpretations of the iconic boat shoe. Sure, these garments may not be made for Force 3 storms or lashing rain on the open sea, but they carry something else: a yearning for coastal life, lightly salt-sprayed boat trips, and stylish summer moments on jetties and café terraces.

From the classics The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) and its predecessor Plein Soleil (1960) – a style journey to the Riviera in the 60s with linen shirts, stripes, and the classic colour palette, set against a backdrop of canvas sails and open sea. 

The Classic Colour Palette

Navy blue, red, cream white, beige and light denim – a colour palette that never goes out of style. Clean and relaxed silhouettes in airy materials such as cotton and linen enhance the feeling of effortless, coastal elegance.

The Marinière Tradition

The classic blue-and-white stripes were born at sea and sailed straight from the French navy into the world of fashion. A pattern that captures everything sailing style is about: freedom, elegant harmony, and adventure. Today, we see stripes both horizontal and vertical – and in more colour combinations than just blue and white.

Elevate the Look With an Accent Colour

Want to give the sailing style a modern twist? Add a splash of colour! Sun yellow, green, or light pastels break away from the traditional palette and bring energy and character.

The Sailing Jacket – Stylish in All Weather

From wet boat decks to city streets– the sailing jacket is a classic that combines function and style in the best way. Originally created to withstand wind, rain, and rough seas, it has become a natural part of maritime fashion. Choose a model in navy or white – or go bold with a colourful version for a personal interpretation of the style.

Chunky Knits for a Life Close to the Sea

Chunky, cable-knit jumpers and cardigans are a natural part of the sailing style, rooted in coastal life where they kept out he chill of sea breezes. Today, we wear them just as much for their rustic charm and timeless character as for their practical heritage. 

Step Into the Sailing Style With the Right Shoes

Rubber boots for rainy days, canvas shoes for light steps on land and – of course – the classic boat shoe for everything in between. The right shoes set the tone for a stylish and well-though-out whole.

Set the Sailing Mood With the Right Details

With the right accessories, you tie the look together. A navy blue, slightly sunfaded cap, a loosely knotted scarf around the neck, and a pair of clean-lined sunglasses create a look that breathes archipelago, sea breeze, and nature-infused sophistication.

With its timeless elegance and sea-rooted simplicity, the style returns – season after season – always just as relevant. We hope you find inspiration in the garments and their history.