The Boat Shoe Trend Is Docking in Every Fashion Girl’s Closet
As sneaker fatigue sets in, designers and It girls are turning to the nautical classic.
When I think of boat shoes, I’m reminded of my freshman year of high school, circa 2012. Back then, the marker of It-girl status was a pair of perfectly polished Sperry Top-Siders in tan—though ivory and navy were also acceptable. Originally designed for traction on slippery decks, the nautical staple quickly found its way into my teenage closet, right alongside pleated skirts and polo tees (preppy-chic was the ultimate fashion trend in the twenty-tens).
Not to be confused with loafers, boat shoes are typically defined by their lower vamp, lace-up detailing, and water-resistant leather construction. But beyond their practicality, they’ve long held their place as a versatile essential. For that very reason, I’ve found myself falling for the maritime-inspired style all over again. And as it turns out, I’m not alone—designers are on board too.
The boat shoe’s modern revival first gained momentum on Miu Miu’s Spring 2024 runway, where slightly distressed versions were paired with buttoned shirts and micro shorts.
Miu Miu catalyzed fashion's latest obsession with boat shoes during their Spring 2024 runway show.
Since then, the shoe trend has continued to gain momentum, notably making a splash during the Spring 2026 fashion week circuit. However, this time around, brands reimagined the classic with a fresher perspective that felt less Y2K-era prep and more contemporary.
At Calvin Klein, fringed boat shoes complemented bubble-hem tops and sheer pants. Monse dove into the fisherman aesthetic, teaming its version with a striped coastal dress and a beach-ready tote. Meanwhile, Loewe offered a hybrid take, combining the glossy finish of a loafer with the signature lacing of a deck shoe.
Boat shoes made waves on the Spring 2026 runways.
To no surprise, the footwear trend has already found its way into fashion’s chicest circles this spring. Not too long ago, I spotted a street styler wearing suede boat slip-ons with a striped rugby shirt and stovepipe jeans. Another opted for a more elevated approach with white tailored trousers and a button-down.
With summer right around the corner, there are plenty more styling possibilities on the horizon. Boat shoes work just as effortlessly with lightweight tank tops and breezy linen pants.
So, consider this your sign to incorporate the look into your closet. Ahead, discover an edit of handpicked pieces spanning every price point—from affordable brands such as Madewell to luxury labels like Tod’s.
Shop the Best Boat Shoes
This collaboration between Aritzia and Sperry is one of my current favorites. I can’t get over the customizable colored laces—how cute!
Madewell's Jamie shoes stand apart from the rest with beaded embellishments and a sumptuous exterior.
With an enduring appeal, Miu Miu's iconic boat shoes are worth the investment. Buy them now and watch how they last for years to come.
Suede shoes aren't solely reserved for the colder months. On 80-degree days, you can easily wear these Gianvito Rossi moccasins with gauzy shorts and a midriff-baring tee.
There’s nothing that says “summer" quite like a raffia trim. Add these breezy shoes to your travel capsule wardrobe ASAP.
I’ll be the first to admit that I have an obsession with fashion’s chocolate brown color trend. So yes, Mango’s deck shoes have made it onto my wish list.
Make a statement with these slip-ons from Sandro, decorated with vibrant red laces woven throughout the upper.
If you’re searching for streamlined footwear that will go well with just about any outfit, look no further than this no-frills alternative from Reformation.
J.Crew is widely recognized for their coastal design codes, so of course they have the chicest boat shoes.
What I love most about a mule silhouette is that it’s beyond easy to wear—there’s no tying, buttoning, or buckling involved.
Punctuated with shimmering metal eyelets, Everlane’s soft navy moccasins boast an edgy feel.
I’m partial toward this rugged tan colorway, but H&M also offers indigo blue and cowhide print.
Look closely and you’ll notice stunning topstitching that provides a touch of texture.
I’ve been looking for a set of uncomplicated white shoes that will anchor my summer wardrobe. Thanks to Zara, I just found my match.
This alternative from Banana Republic showcases a lived-in feel with a rough suede fabric that gets better with every wear.
Coated in pastel pink, Christian Louboutin's suede shoes are perfect for summertime occasions.
Embellished with gold-tone 'GG' hardware, Gucci’s boat shoes embody loud luxury to a T.
