Have you ever noticed how some of the most stylish and sophisticated outfits draw inspiration from the sea? There’s something effortlessly chic and commanding about a sailor’s uniform—its sharp lines, bold contrasts, and classic appeal.
The iconic mix of blue and white, along with other striking color combinations, has long inspired luxury fashion houses, celebrities, and even royal families. From structured jackets to wide-leg trousers, the nautical aesthetic continues to shape the fashion world, proving that elegance and adventure can go hand in hand.
“ It has an enduring appeal - it is timeless and ageless, and everyone can wear a nautical look.”
— Hannah Lyons, assistant curator of art at London's CNN magazine
Although fashion tends to be cyclical, one trend consistently returns season after season. From timeless horizontal stripes to sailor collars, brass buttons to anchor motifs, nautical-inspired fashion—reminiscent of fresh air, sunshine, and the sea—always remains in style.
Nautical style is classic and chic while also being comfortable and natural. It’s a look that suits anyone and can be appropriate for any occasion. But where and when did nautical style enter the world of fashion? Let’s take a look.
In the mid-18th century, England introduced its first official Navy uniform. The designated colour scheme was blue and white, with gold and silver trim for officers, helping to distinguish sailors from fishermen.
In 1846, Queen Victoria commissioned a sailor-style outfit for her son, Albert Edward (Prince of Wales). A portrait of him wearing it was displayed at St. James’ Palace, attracting over 100,000 visitors. This sparked widespread public interest in nautical fashion, transforming it into a major trend.
Imitating the Royal Navy’s style became a symbol of status and a show of solidarity during World War I. Over time, nautical fashion extended beyond children’s clothing and was embraced by high-status women as well.
However, British influence wasn’t the only factor shaping nautical fashion. The iconic striped Breton shirt originated in France, initially worn by fishermen in Brittany before being adopted as the official French Navy uniform in 1858.
The iconic Coco Chanel revolutionized the fashion world with her take on the Breton top. In 1917, she introduced a jersey version of the striped shirt, and throughout the 1920s, she was often seen on the French Riviera, effortlessly styling striped sweaters with wide-legged trousers.
Her chic and relaxed aesthetic elevated nautical fashion, transforming it into a symbol of luxury and sophistication.
A model walks the Chanel Cruise runway on May 3, 2018 in Paris, France sporting this nautical-inspired accessory.
Modern Nautical Styles: From the 1960s to Today
In the late 20th century, luxury designers increasingly embraced nautical influences in their collections. In 1966, Yves Saint Laurent redefined the classic Breton top, transforming its iconic stripes into a glamorous floor-length evening gown adorned with shimmering sequins.
Nowdays, we see a lot of sailor have the sailors clothes style. Casual or classical , people mixed and create combinations and new outfits which gives us different styles .
Sailor Trousers
Sailor pants are a classic nautical-inspired style, defined by their high-waisted fit, wide-leg cut, and decorative button detailing reminiscent of traditional naval uniforms. Typically crafted in navy blue or white, these trousers create a vintage yet elegant silhouette, accentuating the waist and elongating the legs.
Popularized in the mid-20th century, sailor pants remain a timeless fashion staple, effortlessly blending maritime heritage with modern sophistication.
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We often see fashion designers, bloggers, and fashionistas embracing the timeless sailor trousers. These classic, versatile pants effortlessly create an elegant and polished look.
One notable figure who has adopted this style is the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle. She chose a chic all-black ensemble, pairing a fitted turtleneck sweater with high-waisted sailor-style trousers featuring decorative buttons. Completing the look with black pointed-toe heels, she achieved an outfit that is sleek, sophisticated, and timeless.
Breton Top or Breton Striped Shirt
The Breton striped shirt is a timeless fashion staple, featuring classic horizontal navy and white stripes. Originally associated with French sailors, it later became an iconic piece in everyday fashion.
Inspired by the French Navy uniform, the design was officially introduced in 1858 for sailors in Brittany, France. The shirt featured 21 stripes, believed to symbolize Napoleon’s victories over the British. Initially worn by fishermen and sailors for its practicality and visibility at sea, the Breton top was later popularized in fashion by Coco Chanel in the 1910s, transforming it into a chic, timeless wardrobe essential.
Pea Coat
From the wardrobes of European sailors to urban fashion, the caban has established itself as an essential piece, embraced by style icons like Françoise Hardy and Kate Moss. Its origins date back to the 17th century, when it was worn by sailors to protect them from the cold and humidity. The name is believed to come from the Arabic word “qaba”, which refers to a loose-fitting coat. It was later adopted by both the British and French navies. Designed with a short cut to allow greater freedom of movement, the caban gradually left the naval world and entered urban fashion in the 1960s. Yves Saint Laurent was one of the first designers to introduce it into women’s wardrobes, pairing it with cigarette pants and elegant shoes, creating a chic androgynous aesthetic. For the Fall-Winter 2024 collection, Gucci reinterpreted the caban, giving it a contemporary and luxurious touch with an oversized cut and gold buttons, while preserving refined details that reflect its maximalist identity. Other major fashion houses like Dior, Burberry, Patou, Bottega Veneta, and Chanel have continuously reinvented this timeless coat, solidifying its place as a wardrobe essential.
Colors combinations
The principale color of nautical style is navy bleu and white. When we opt this style for an outfit we can wear in our daily life or events we can add some other colors to complite the look and give it a touche of creation and colorful vibes .
We can do this by adding red , yellow and beige .those color combination are mostly chosen by celabrities designers and brands . here are some inspiration for you !
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What do you think about the Princess of Wales? About her style and outfits?
Kate Middleton is one of the most elegant princesses; her style is always graceful and refined.
In this picture, Kate opts for a nautical style, pairing sailor trousers with a Breton top. She adds a small red bag to complete her elegant look.
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Nautical fashion in algeria ?
The History of the “Chongvai” Suit in Algeria
The Chongvai suit is traditionally recognized as a Chinese garment linked to the working class and Communist Party activists. However, some travelers who visited Shanghai noted that they never actually saw it being worn there.
It is believed that this suit made its way to Algeria between World War I and World War II.
introduced by Chinese merchants from Shanghai’s port through a discreet trade network, operating away from French colonial oversight. During that time, it was seen as a prestigious work uniform, particularly in an era of economic hardship.
At the Shanghai World Expo, the suit was featured in the Algerian pavilion, drawing attention from visitors—especially elderly individuals—who recognized it yet observed slight modifications in its design.
Additionally, the Chongvai suit became closely linked to the blue and white striped sailor shirt, symbolizing its deep-rooted connection to the sea and maritime culture.
Nautical style has remained a timeless fashion trend, embraced by celebrities, royalty, and fashion influencers for its effortless elegance and versatility. Characterized by navy blue, white, stripes, and gold accents, it seamlessly transitions between casual and formal wear.
A Breton striped shirt paired with high-waisted trousers creates a chic everyday look, while sailor-inspired elements like wide-leg pants and structured blazers add a touch of sophistication.
Luxury fashion houses such as Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel, Gucci, and Dior have continuously reimagined this maritime aesthetic, incorporating it into both casual ensembles and glamorous red carpet looks.
Whether for a seaside stroll or a high-fashion event, nautical style remains a perfect blend of heritage and modernity, making it a truly lasting fashion statement.
“ Nautical fashion enjoys lots of positive connotations: Of marine adventures and the romance of the sea. ”
— National Maritime Museum
