Summer is officially in full swing. It can be a fine line to walk here in New England when you want to add a nautical touch to your look but don’t want to take it too far. My advice? Pick one statement or accent piece to avoid looking like a walking starfish during the summer months.
So, while you should not (I repeat, should not!) wear too many nautical or themed pieces together, adding one is a way to lend a summery feeling to any outfit, from casual to fancy and everywhere in between.
Jean shorts are a summer staple, and this pair by BLANKNYC, available at Pretty in the Port in Newburyport, is on trend with its distressed look and applique detail work. At home on the boat or the beach, these are the perfect shorts to pair with sandals or cute sneakers and a soft t-shirt and be set for the day.
BLANKNYC jean shorts, courtesy of Pretty in the Port
I’ve mentioned this knit sweater before, but no seafaring round up would be complete without it. Sold at Pia in Lynnfield, this lightweight summer sweater comes in red or navy blue and looks great with a pair of white skinny jeans.
This Canvas anchor tote, from Pretty Poppy in Newburyport, is as cute as it is functional. The inside has a clear PVC water resistant lining, making this an ideal bag to accompany you to the beach or a backyard get together.
Pretty Poppy canvas anchor tote
Prefer an accessory? Pop into SoleAmour in Andover and peruse their selection of jewelry and accessories, like these understated and elegant gold anchor earrings by Tai.
Tai gold anchor earrings, courtesy of SoleAmour
KJP anchor ties, courtesy of Ocean Chic Boutique & Waterbar
It’s becoming increasingly more difficult to be a New Englander and not cross paths with Kiel James Patrick. The brand is sold at several shops along the Northshore, including at Ocean Chic Boutique & Waterbar in Salem. One of the brand’s standout items are their anchor ties, which come in the traditional tie as well as the bow tie style. Of course KJP is also well known for their bracelets, such as the Jacqueline Bouvier style from their Atlantic Pearl collection that’s also sold at Ocean Chic. Additionally, the shop is chock full of other items that would make the perfect nautical complement to any outfit. Just hanging around? Try and resist their cowl neck anchor sweater, which is printed locally in Rockport.
Cowl neck anchor sweater, courtesy of Ocean Chic Boutique & Waterbar
If you’re someone who wants to avoid wearing anchors or stars of any kind, consider incorporating white or navy blue into your outfit. A navy and white striped shirt, an anchor scarf or white jeans will go a long way towards ensuring you fit in at the seashore with style.