When someone asks me how old I am, I say, “old enough to remember wearing Sperry Top-Siders to school every day.” Back then, my loyalty to boat shoes felt like a phase. But apparently, it was just foreshadowing.
After a slow return over the past couple of seasons, boat shoes have officially re-entered the chat for spring 2026. What was once considered a strictly preppy staple—rooted in New England summers and early-’60s practicality—has been reimagined into something far more versatile.
Designers like Prada, Miu Miu, and Bally first sparked the revival, sending updated versions down the runway styled in ways that felt anything but traditional. Instead of leaning into their preppy roots, boat shoes were paired with high-shine leather, structured bags, and more directional silhouettes. The result? A once-niche staple that now feels surprisingly modern—and wearable well beyond its East Coast origins.
Still skeptical? I get it. But this time around, boat shoes aren’t about looking like you’re headed to the marina; they’re about contrast. Think: relaxed denim, tailored trousers, or even something a little unexpected. If you’re ready to reconsider them, keep scrolling for our favorite ways to style the boat shoe revival. Plus, the best pairs to shop right now.
How to Style Boat Shoes in 2026
1. With a barn jacket and rugby shirt
If there’s one outfit formula the fashion crowd keeps coming back to, it’s this: boat shoes with a striped rugby polo and a barn jacket. It plays into that fisherman-inspired feel without going full coastal—striking just the right balance for everyday, city dressing.
2. With a trench coat and slouchy bag
If your style leans more classic, pairing boat shoes with a trench coat is a foolproof choice. To keep it from feeling too expected, swap your usual crossbody for a slouchy shoulder bag or oversized tote.
3. With a chunky sweater and long shorts
This look proves just how easy boat shoes are to style. Pair them with long denim shorts—or baggy jeans, depending on the weather—and an oversized sweater for an effortless, all-day outfit that feels equal parts cool and comfortable.
4. With a structured jacket and white jeans
To keep the look from feeling too nautical, opt for relaxed, baggy white jeans instead of slim-fitting ones, and finish it off with a suede jacket for added texture and depth.
5. With a leather jacket and straight-leg jeans
If you want to give boat shoes a bit of edge, style them with an oversized leather jacket and slim-fit jeans. The contrast does all the work, making the look feel easy but intentional.
Our Favorite Boat Shoes to Buy Now
Tinsley Crisp, Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer
Tinsley Crisp is a Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer at The Everygirl and specializes in reporting on the season’s latest trends and hottest products. As a New York City-based stylist, she’s committed to injecting joy into the art of getting dressed and delivering attainable yet aspirational content to our readers.
The post These Are the Shoes Our Editors Are Wearing Instead of Loafers This Spring appeared first on The Everygirl.
