The Boat Shoe Trend Isn't Going Anywhere - Here's How To Style Them In 2025

If you're looking for casual yet super-versatile footwear to update your spring and summer collection, look no further than boat shoes. This classic style has been around for decades, having been popularized first by Paul Sperry in the 1930s and then by John F. Kennedy in a big way in the '60s. Since then, boat shoes have been seen on preppy folks' feet en masse, and they're making a huge comeback in the general public in 2025. Those who aren't into polo shirts and tennis skirts don't have to shy away from wearing boat shoes — they can be styled to look trendier and more updated. For example, pair them with baggy jeans and an oversized jacket for an ultra-cool outfit, and during the in-between weather months, style your favorite oversized sweater with Bermuda shorts and your favorite boat shoes.

This style of shoe is synonymous with the preppy-chic look, but for a more avant-garde feel, don't take the trend too literally. The fashion house Monse styled a pair with a breezy, lacy white dress and a tailored vest in its spring/summer 2025 collection, uniting both feminine and masculine energy. Last year, Miu Miu incorporated them with everything from a loose, cropped jumpsuit to a structured leather-skirt-and-jacket combo during its spring/summer 2024 fashion show. Ultimately, since boat shoes generally come in neutral colors and have a laid-back design, they go with pretty much everything, but if you want your shoes to be the star of the show, there are plenty of options that veer away from the preppy look and lean more toward high fashion.

The classic boat shoe design is characterized by its flat rubber sole and heavy stitching around the top, with the material made out of leather or suede in a neutral brown shade. While you can't go wrong with this style, you can go for other options if you prefer a bit more pizzazz. Sperry, the OG of boat shoes, offers its Authentic Original™ 2 Eye Boat Shoe in gold and silver, which makes neutral color palettes more interesting. Jeffrey Campbell's Boast Boat Shoe is a gorgeous, multi-colored tapestry pair that will transition nicely from summer to fall. And if you want to splurge, Christian Louboutin's Gerockel Studded Leather Boat Shoes feature silver studs and the brand's signature red soles.

Remember, boat shoes don't have to be boring. It's all about finding the perfect set that fits your personality and then styling it accordingly. If you have a fun, colorful pair, build your outfit from there. Opt for neutral shades, such as white or navy, so that your footwear stands out. You can also mix and match textures with cropped leather pants and suede shoes. If you need extra cushioning, try Princess Diana socks for a '90s-inspired footwear look. "Add in pieces like loose denim, boxer-style shorts, mini pleated skirts, Bermuda knit shorts, light oversized crop knits, polos, and even slip dresses," stylist Danielle Cafiero told TZR in March 2024, and it still rings true this year. You'll be surprised at how many different combos you can come up with, and — bonus points — your feet will stay comfy all day while being on-trend for 2025.