Massive Mens Spring Fashion Trend – Nautical

We thought for our post of the Month this month we would do a massive guide to the latest Spring Summer trend for 2009. It includes what exactly the trend is, how to go about it, and some of our favourite pieces to buy straight away to be ready for those sunny days (fingers crossed!). So without further ado, we introduce you to Nautical!

The Nautical Trend

When you watch catwalk shows from massive designers it’s sometimes really hard to know exactly which trends will translate well to the High Street and which will be completely ignored. Nautical was definitely not an obvious catwalk trend but it is one which has really been taken over by the High Street and made their own for the upcoming season. It is now set to be THE major trend of spring for men! It’s a trend that comes back every few years, but it never really seems to go away completely. That’s why we love it, because it can be a staple (in moderation) every year at this time.

Because Nautical is around in some form every year (I have a navy white striped polo from last year waiting to be broken out) the key to this particular season is to look more like you are just off to the yacht club rather than a brand new Royal Navy recruit. As we said above, Moderation is the key to wearing nautical well and avoiding looking like Popeye, in an over-the-top sailor suit! You can of course go for the muscles bulging however. Covering yourself in stripes and gold buttons is NOT the way to go so please just keep it subtle and give a nod to the trend, not deck yourself out and take to the high seas!

The secret to making this work (especially for men) is in both subtlety and colour combinations. Nautical outfits are normally associated with white and navy – but cream and navy and a splattering of beige or red can look great. Dark navy, almost black, (as opposed to lighter French Navy) is figure flattering and mirrors that of many service uniforms, such as the UK’s police force or Royal Navy.

Creating a Great Nautical Look

If you don’t like navy then go for red stripes or plain white or cream, with a nautical twist. Anchor prints are also a refreshing alternative to stripes. You can make your look smarter or more formal by just adding a simple white or grey blazer to your look. We also recommend the various forms of boat shoes around at the moment to go along with your slightly rolled up trousers. Bright socks and layering will also look great this season. A shirt over a polo t-shirt is another good look for casual days or out on the town.

Examples and Where to Buy

Nautical at MyWardrobe

Nautical at Republic

All Saint Nautical Inspired

Urban Outfitters Nautical Inspired

Topman Ideas and Inspiration

Topman have done a great Nautical range this year and you can buy all these pieces online or in store…