When it comes to legendary and classic styles, sailor or navy is a must. Who wouldn't recognize those iconic stripes, anchors, and color palette? Elegant, relaxed, and steeped in history, this style combines simplicity with sophistication. In today's post, we'll explain in detail what this style is, how to style it, what mistakes to avoid, what points to keep in mind, and much more.

What is the sailor or navy style?

Sailor style, or navy in English, is one of those classic trends that returns every season with a little bit of a makeover. Inspired by traditional sailor uniforms, this style combines elegance and simplicity with casual and relaxed style. Most of us identify or associate it with stripes, navy blue, white, and small touches of red, and we're not wrong, but there's more. Today, this style is synonymous with summer and coastal getaways, as well as a symbol of sophisticated simplicity.

You may be interested in: combining navy blue .

Origin and characteristics

As we briefly mentioned at the beginning, the nautical style has its roots in the functional attire of 19th-century sailors. During that time, the British and French navies designed uniforms for their sailors that were not only practical but also served to unify them and create an identity. These uniforms were made of durable fabrics like wool and designed to withstand the harsh conditions at sea.

One of the most distinctive elements of this style is the horizontal stripes, which were chosen not only for aesthetic reasons but also for their functionality. The white and blue stripes were said to make sailors easier to spot if they fell overboard, which was crucial for their safety.

As fashion evolved, the nautical style began to gain popularity outside the confines of the ship. Coco Chanel played a pivotal role in this transition. During a trip to the French coast, she was inspired by sailors' work clothes, recognizing in their simple striped garments and comfortable cuts an air of casual elegance that she could transform for the modern woman. It was Chanel who, in 1917, introduced the striped shirt to haute couture, bringing it to the runways and turning it into a classic. Since then, the nautical shirt has remained one of the most representative icons of the nautical style.

Key colors of the navy style

To understand a little more about the navy style, we'll explain what it consists of, starting with the colors. Navy blue and white are the undisputed color pillars of the navy style. Let's see it better this way:

• Navy blue: the absolute protagonist, elegant, sober and versatile.

• White: provides luminosity and freshness, creating contrast.

• Red: used in small accents such as accessories, embroidery, or details on garments, to give life and dynamism to the look.

Basic garments to create a nautical look

Now that you know what colors make up the navy style (although you probably already had them clear), we will see what the basic garments of this aesthetic are:

• Striped tops and T-shirts: A must-have basic. Traditionally, thick stripes are used, but thin stripes are also popular these days.

• White or light blue shirts: Simple, classic and formal.

• Ballerinas: Comfortable ballerinas in neutral or blue tones.

• Belts: Usually in red, they tend to stand out when wearing high-waisted pants over a top.

• Shorts: Mid-calf length trousers are also a classic sailor style garment.

How to style navy: 2025 trends

Navy style has been reinvented countless times by now. Today, it has adapted to a modern, more conscious lifestyle, where responsible consumption and timeless garments are prioritized over fast, disposable fashions. Let's see how to style it according to different trends in 2025:

Minimalism

With its simple color palette and straightforward designs, navy is the ideal style for those looking for uncomplicated outfits. Monochromatic looks in shades of navy, white, and subtle red accents align perfectly with the minimalist aesthetic. Opt for a striped top with high-waisted navy jeans , or a white shirt with straight-leg organic cotton pants.

Conscious fashion and slow fashion

Conscious fashion continues to grow, and with it the focus on sustainability and garment durability. What better way to celebrate than with a timeless style? Their garments never go out of style and can be worn season after season. Striped organic cotton shirts, dark-hued jeans, and vegan ballet flats are perfect for this conscious, navy-inspired approach.

Navy sporty

If you prefer a more active look, sporty navy is ideal. Combine traditional nautical elements with sporty pieces, such as leggings or minimalist white sneakers. A striped top or a nautical tee in navy tones, along with a light jacket and sweatpants, add a sporty touch without losing the navy essence.

Maximalist Navy

While we've said that navy style is associated with simplicity, there's nothing that says it's forbidden to include it in a maximalist style. Using the aforementioned essentials to create the foundation of the look, and then adding plenty of red details, such as a belt, a scarf, bracelets, earrings, and necklaces, will still create a nod to traditional style, but with that maximalist essence. Wicker bags, vintage sunglasses, and raffia hats would also pair beautifully.

Inspiration: Celebrities with a nautical style

Over the years, the nautical style has been adopted by numerous celebrities and fashion icons who have reinterpreted it, adding touches of their own personality. Some figures you can draw inspiration from include:

• Audrey Hepburn: With her classic striped shirts and high-waisted pants, Audrey made navy a symbol of elegance.

• Brigitte Bardot: An icon of French chic, Bardot popularized striped tops on her Riviera getaways.

• Kate Middleton: The Duchess of Cambridge has demonstrated on multiple occasions how a navy blazer or a striped T-shirt is the right choice.

• Harry Styles: The singer has worn striped shirts and navy suits on countless occasions.

• Alexa Chung: Always faithful to a casual chic style, Alexa combines navy garments with a very vintage and casual air.

Tips for successfully combining the navy style

As you'll see, the nautical style is a firm favorite. While it has a very defined and established aesthetic in popular memory, it can still be easily adapted. Now, if this is what you want to do, follow these tips:

• Balance the stripes: If you opt for a striped top, pair it with plain bottoms to avoid overwhelming the look.

• Less is more: Navy style is all about simplicity. If you want to play it safe, opt for clean, straight-lined looks without excessive accessories.

• Choose quality fabrics: Remember that navy blue never goes out of style. When buying clothes, choose brands that use durable and resistant materials like organic cotton.

• Add a modern touch: It's best to start by creating basic, simple looks, but play around with accessories.

• Play with layers: Don't be afraid to play with layers. Instead of wearing closed shirts, wear them open, or wear a vest, blazer, or cardigan. The options are endless.

• Marine textures to highlight: Give a modern twist to nautical style by incorporating fabrics like crochet or other details that mimic nets or scales.

What mistakes should you avoid?

Finally, let's look at what you shouldn't do. But before I tell you what you shouldn't do, remember that nothing is set in stone. Fashion is a form of expression and, as such, it's free:

• Do not overuse nautical motifs: Anchors, ropes, and gold buttons should be used sparingly. Too many themed details will make the look look like a costume.

• Avoid stripe saturation: Combining multiple garments with different stripes breaks the visual harmony of the outfit.

• Ignore the color palette: For an authentic navy look, stick to shades of navy, white, and red, avoiding bright or neon colors.

• Neglecting fabrics: Synthetic or low-quality materials detract from the simple, natural aesthetic of the navy style. Always prioritize natural and sustainable fabrics.

• Not adapting the style to your personality: Navy shouldn't be a literal copy of the sailor uniform. Add your personal touch with accessories, cuts, or texture mixes.

Dress with Clotsy

At Clotsy, you can combine your nautical or navy style with our sustainable women's clothing. Also, don't miss our collections of sustainable sportswear and barefoot footwear .

Conclusion

In conclusion, navy style remains relevant because it adapts without losing its iconic appeal. Whether minimalist, sporty, or even maximalist, it offers just the right amount of versatility to modify it without losing its appeal. Dare to reinterpret it your way, with bold combinations and a conscious approach, and make navy a personal staple.