Numerous times a week I get tagged in pictures on social media by friends and followers who see something with a nautical twist or inspiration and know how much I would love to see it as well! So, I guess it comes as no surprise when I say how much I love designs that reflect the maritime elements. My love of the ocean is not only reflected in my decorating choices but my in my sartorial ones, too. It’s this innate draw to the ocean that connects me to Nautica – who also celebrate, love and respect the water, everywhere, everyday. I jumped at the chance to team up with the brand to style a few pieces from their sunglasses and optical range. Click through after the jump to see my looks!
I styled a smart-casual look that works equally well for agency meetings, just as it does for a laid-back weekend brunch. Buttoning up the shirt immediately smartens the overall look, while wearing the button down open gives an air of informality.
The chambray shirt plays off of the simplicity of the optical design by contrasting the clear and metal frame with a cool blue tone. I wanted to capture the timeless and sophisticated look of the frames throughout the entire outfit.
To do this, I built the outfit out using classics with subtle twists, from a chambray shirt with an unexpected stripe detail down the button line to a simple white tee with overlaid navy paneling that ties into the chinos.
To keep the frames front and centre, I purposely styled the outfit so that it would gradually intensify in depth from top to bottom: starting with the clear frames, building slightly with the white tee and overlaid chambray shirt and then finishing with dark navy chinos.
One of the things I love most about living in New York City is that no matter where I am, I’m always in close proximity to the water. I love wondering the boardwalks and parks that line the Hudson and East Rivers – the cool breezes and lapping water are instantly pacifying in what is otherwise such a fast-paced city.
Nautica’s designs are inspired by the sea and designed in the city, which is great because, let’s face it, you don’t have to dress like you are literally heading out to catch fish in order to bring a nautical vibe into your outfit!
You can reflect the colors and textures of the sea in ways that look sophisticated in the city. For example, in my outfit, the clear frames reflect the clarity of crystal blue waters, while the deep navy nods to the intense midnight blue seen in deeper parts of the ocean.
Don’t you love how these frames are at once subtle and striking in their design?
With the mercury rising and the sun’s rays stronger, it was time for a cool ice coffee and to slip on my shades. Do you like to bring nautical inspired elements into your outfits?
// Creative direction, styling and photography by Will Taylor | Posted in partnership with Nautica; all views my own.
10 Comments
Digging those clear frames Will. I wouldn’t have thought they were Nautica!
@Adam – Aren’t they incredible! Their designed are super elevated.
These pictures have style!!! I love seeing these posts about your wardrobe and always send them to my boyfriend! 😉
@Serena – Hahaha, that’s brilliant! Thanks for the kind words.
You’ve reminded me how I need a good pair of reflective shades.
@JK – I was surprised how much I liked this pair as I wouldn’t normally gravitate towards reflective lenses like this but I love the look now!
Hey Will. I’m happy you wrote this post because I’ve been wearing glasses since junior year and struggled with how to work my outfits around them. This rocks! Mat
@Mat – So pleased you found it inspiring, thanks for stopping by!
Obsessed with these frames on you, Will! So good!
@Jenn – Thank you so much! 🙂