Some have always worn them, while others have just rediscovered them thanks to a lady named Miuccia Prada, who reinterpreted them on Miu Miu’s Spring-Summer 2024 runway, instantly making them the most coveted item of the season.
We’re talking about boat shoes, the famous footwear that combines the elegance of a loafer with the practicality of a sole suited for the slipperiest and most delicate surfaces.
Originally created for a specific use, they were designed in the 1930s by Paul Sperry (hence the brand that still produces the authentic Top Sider model) specifically to ensure sailors had a more secure footing on their boats. Over time, they gradually entered everyday wardrobes, becoming a true style statement even for those who don’t know much about sailing.
Chic yet effortless, they traditionally pair with white trousers, jeans, bermuda shorts, and summer t-shirts. However, as we’ve seen on recent runways, they now also stylishly complement even the most feminine outfits in unique ways.
Above: a look from Miu Miu’s Spring-Summer 2024 runway.
With long dresses, skirts, shirts, and romantic pieces: there are no limits to creativity and variations. If you only have the traditional brown model with contrasting laces in mind, you’ll soon see that the options are much broader.
From the Miu Miu versions, which sold out in nearly all color options in record time, to the timeless models by expert brands like Sebago and Timberland, explore our selection of the most stunning boat shoes for your summer.
Miu Miu: Unlined bicolored leather boat loafers.
(Credits: Miumiu.com)
Sperry: Authentic Original™ hand-stitched leather boat shoes.
(Credits: Sperry.com)
Timberland: Classic leather model with grooved rubber sole.
(Credits: Timberland.com)
Sebago: Portland suede leather boat loafers.
(Credits: Sebago.com)
Scarosso: Oprah nubuck boat shoes.
(Credits: Scarosso.com)
Manebí: Hamptons boat shoes.
(Credits: Manebi.com)
Velasca: Gambaree suede leather boat shoes.
(Credits: Velascawomen.com)
Slam: Prince leather boat shoes.
(Credits: Zalando.it)
Lumberjack: Navigator suede leather shoes.
(Credits: Lumberjack.com)
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This article first appeared on Grazia.it – Author: Chiara Da Col
