5 Modern Ways to Wear Nautical Style This Summer

Nautical Style is one of my favorite ways to dress in summer because it always gives a chic, youthful vibe. But even a classic look like this needs an update now and then. Here are five modern ways to wear nautical this summer to look ship shape.

top | jeans | sandals | earrings

1. Swap Classic Nautical Stripes for Colorful Stripes

Navy and white stripes are synonymous with sailors and the sea, but this season there’s a shipload of saturated pastels you might want to wear instead. This pretty peach and white striped tee updates nautical, making it feel more playful, fresh, and modern.

The classic boat neckline works wonders to make your shoulders look broader, making your waist look narrower. The three-quarter sleeves give you the upper arm coverage you crave but don’t make you look “old lady.”Now all I need is a sailboat!

dress | dress here too| purse | sandals | earrings

2. Wear Nautical Clothes with Feminine Details

Nautical Style is rooted in men’s naval uniforms, so if you want to give nautical a modern twist, choose nautical clothing with feminine details.  For example, this cute, red, nautical-inspired sundress with the drawstring waist has dainty flutter sleeves and a flirty ruffle hem that is on trend. You can go all out and accessorize this dress with traditional maritime accessories in red, white, and blue, or play it low-key with natural-looking summer accessories in neutral colors with lots of texture.

Note: Click the link above to see the beautiful crisscross eyelet straps on the back of this swingy dress. They’re such a pretty detail.

top | jeans | sandals | earrings | travel bag

3. Tie It, Knot It!

Short tops that twist and tie at the side or in the middle can give you a modern Maritime look.  This bright rose tee has a sporty side knot that looks somewhat nautical, especially when you wear it with sailor-like, white bootcut jeans. Add matching white sandals and a striped Brenton travel tote, and you’re ready to climb aboard!

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4. Choose a Nautical Polo Dress

Another way to look up to date in nautical is to wear a nautical-themed Polo dress. Polo dresses look like long, comfy polo shirts and are popular now. This perky navy one is perfect for playing tennis, pickleball, or relaxing on vacation. Team it up with white sneakers for an energetic, casual look.

top | jeans | shoes | earrings | hat

5. Go Beachy Nautical!

Nautical Styles with beachy boho details also look modern in 2023. There’s something very nautical about that classic square neckline on this pretty top. Still, the crinkled cotton fabric, voluminous peasant sleeves, and subtle eyelet trim make it feel haute hippie. My cute pink bucket hat and knit sneakers make this a fabulous summer look! Here’s to smooth sailing ahead.