Set Your Course – Nautical Inspiration That Isn’t Striped

By Brian Maynor

 

Fleet Week may have passed, but the lure of the sea lasts all summer.

While we might not be able to lounge on a beach or boat all summer sipping cocktails and soaking up the sun, we can always dream and pull inspiration from the sea into our everyday looks.

Nautical inspired outfits are a timeless go-to for any spring or summer occasion, including work.  They are the perfect blend of relaxed summer style and structure.  While Breton stripes may jump to mind as the quintessential trend, they are not the only way to incorporate a nautical theme into your wardrobe.  Here are a few trends that give a nod to the sea without the fear of looking wider:

 

1.     Fisherman sweaters.  This ever-popular wardrobe staple originated in the late 1800s from a group of islands off the coast of Ireland, and is officially called an Aran sweater.  What began as a necessity is now an icon of style.

2.     Rope detailing.  Along with anchors, ropes are ubiquitous symbols of the sea and popular accessories this season.  By adding a rope bracelet, belt or lace-up detail you give any outfit a seaworthy feel.

3.     Sea life embellishments.  A more playful approach to the nautical theme, this trend uses embroidery, overlays and patterns of seashells, starfish, crabs and other sea life to bring a literal interpretation to the trend.  If you want a more subtle approach, look for shell buttons and toggles.

4.     Yachting flags.  A new trend for 2015, these bright, bold, graphic prints and stripes are a play on color blocking that delivers a clear message of summer as dramatic and eye-catching as their inspiration.

5.     Navy, White and Gold.  A classic color combo of summer, this striking palette evokes a naval theme in any incarnation.  This is probably the easiest way to pull together this trend from pieces already in your closet.

 

Whether you live at the beach or just long to, adding a little nautical flair to your look will immediately give it a relaxed, no fuss, breezy feel.  Just don’t over do it with more than one or two pieces.   Otherwise you’ll send your look overboard.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

 

I am always curious to hear about your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and help make your work wardrobe pull double duty. Email your questions, quandaries and conundrums to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

 

 

.

..