I have to say that my biggest fashion regret was matching my Victoria's Secret PINK leopard print sweatsuit with cheetah print boat shoes back in middle school. This was when boat shoes (and the Sperry brand as a whole) were all the rage, so while the outfit itself wasn't exactly my finest moment, at least I was on trend? And with the return of animal print and boat shoes back on the rise, I could try to make fetch happen again TBH.
Regardless of how I chose to style them then, if you're looking for something a little more fun and less traditional than your typical boat shoe — you know, the ones your dad wears — we have the picks for you! Keep reading to see all of our favorites that will keep you ahead of the trend!
Johnston and Murphy Loafer
I love a boat shoe that looks like this, with the almost suede-like finish and your typical boat shoe bottom. These are a milder take on the trend and will look great with so many looks. Toss 'em on with some denim shorts, an oversized button-down, a ball cap, and call it a day!
Jeffrey Campbell Boat Shoes
Here's the classic "boat shoe" look from Jeffrey Campbell, a brand that's always ahead of the style game. The slimmer profile gives you a more feminine (think: less dad) look while still staying true to classic boat shoe style. Grab these affordable (and super cute) shoes to rock this trend on a budget!
Trotters Farah Boat Shoe
These have already started to pop up all over the place — I mean, the trend is really on fire right now. I've seen them out and about on many different occasions, and love how people are styling them dressed up and dressed down! This pair could really be a moment with a pleated skirt, a simple t-shirt, and a mini bag!
Kurt Geiger London Shoe
Boat shoes...with a print?! These are very bold, and will be sure to make a statement with their gingham print and metallic gold finish! I can totally see these with a some wide-legged denim, a white t-shirt, and a little cabbie hat. I predict that these will be everywhere come fall — just wait!
J.Crew Quoddy Shoe
I love the boat shoes in this dark chocolate brown color, especially when paired with lighter colored outfits for those warmer months like spring and summer! They're guaranteed to be the quintessential boat shoe Hamptons hangouts, Martha's Vineyard getaways, and more.
Marc Fisher Loafer
These Loro Piana look-a-likes have to be my absolute favorite from this trend. They give off all the old money, luxurious vibes that are sure to go with the "boat shoe" aesthetic.
Sebago Boat Shoes
Sebago's are the OG, authentic boat shoes and have been for years. They're up there alongside Sperry as the original boat shoe, so if you want an authentic pair that will last, then these are definitely for you!
ByPaige Boat Shoes
Okay, hear me out. These aren't practically boat shoes (meaning the literal build of the shoe), but they are literally boat shoes (meaning they have actual boats on them). And I have to say that they are adorable! I love a good loafer, and the detail on these are insane!
Dolce Vita Loafer
Another great contender that I had to add because I predict that navy will be a very popular color this summer. It's normally more of a fall color, but I think we'll be seeing it more and more white and burgundy all summer long for that nautical look.
Jeffrey Campbell Boat Shoe
All white outfits for the summer is always in! I picture this with a cable knit sweater and white shorts for the summer! An ideal outfit for a boat day, if you ask me!
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Lead image via Nordstrom.