I consider myself very lucky. My childhood summers were spent on our family yacht, Sappho - a graceful, wooden beauty built in the ‘70s. My parents, with their perfectly worn-in leather boat shoes and sun-kissed faces, would steer us out into the open ocean, where we'd feast on freshly caught fish eaten off taupe-coloured plastic plates and the sea salt crisp in our hair. These memories are etched in my mind, and now, looking back as an adult, I can't help but romanticise those carefree days and how wonderful they were. I wish I could go back and appreciate it all just a little bit more!
So, in the spirit of reliving those idyllic moments, I’ve put together a nautical-inspired mood board - a little ode to all things yachting.
I’m celebrating the classic nautical look: black and white stripes, boat shoes, crisp white pants, and matching sets that feel put-together yet timeless. There's something so terribly nostalgic about this style that feels both charming and effortless, as though it belongs to a breezy afternoon on the coast, whether you’re actually out on the water or simply daydreaming of it…
Is this a way in which you’d like to dress?
Rooted in a rich maritime heritage, yachting style draws from traditional seafaring attire - think heritage brands, durable fabrics, primary colours, and designs that are both practical and sophisticated. It’s a beautiful balance of function and elegance, giving you the freedom to live by the sea and dress as though you always belonged there.
The appeal is easy: picture yourself in a blue and white Breton top (a true classic!), a structured pair of Bermuda shorts cinched together with a high-waisted leather belt. As you sip moka-made coffee in the cockpit, you’re dressed in a simple cotton dress, or maybe a one-piece swimsuit, a sarong casually thrown over it, and your bare feet are resting on the warm, wooden deck.
And when the weather turns cooler, this look adapts too: workman’s jackets in rugged fabrics, such as coated canvas or cotton; cozy wool cable-knit sweaters; and linen trousers that feel just right when the breeze picks up. Embellishments? Consider nautical details such as rope trims, anchor motifs, pearls, or gold buttons. And as for footwear, there’s nothing better than the classic leather boat shoe, fisherman sandals, or even going barefoot, if you’re so inclined.
“The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever”
– Jacques Yves Cousteau
Straw hat, pearl necklace, clubmaster classics, jimmy shirt, polo stripe tee, sailing the seas, boat shoes, gabe cotton skirt.
'It’s always sunny round’ here tee', tea-stained sarong in cotton voile, the cocesa swimsuit in chilli.
Daisy chain hoops, portobello sunglasses, Ines biscotti linen pants, cable knit vest, gatsby flats, nivea mini dress.
Rope sandals, sedgewick top and matching skirt, ascent cap, eco tote in nera.
Thank you Mum & Dad for all the adventures. I love you. Eleanor xxx
I love your style recommendations - so many good tips here!