From Copenhagen to Paris, all the cool girls were wearing boat shoes last year. They're also wearing them this year, as the stylish footwear is having a *another* moment — just in time for summer. But while the 2025 trend saw chunky lug-sole styles dominate, this season has seen more slimline silhouettes emerge. In 2026, it's less about paying homage to the marina and more about styling them for activities closer to home, from office wear to pub attire.
For those wanting to jump on the trend — specifically the elevated design one — Next has the perfect pair. The high street store recently dropped these tan brown leather charm versions, all complete with a sophisticated and '70s-esque suede. At just £48, they're an affordable alternative to high-fashion offerings like Miu Miu's £750 pair or Loewe's £825 ones.
Not a fan of the tan? They also come in blue, navy, chocolate brown and sand, the latter of which is complete with a bold red lace for contrast.
In terms of styling, do it like the street style Fashion Week girlies. Whether it's with a midi skirt and oversized blazer (both in earth tones) or a cord mini skirt and matching jacket, don't forget to add a polka dot sock for a preppy edge. Polka prints are trending, after all.
Boat shoes also look effortlessly chic with a pair of straight-leg jeans. Or, linen trousers if you're going for the anti-jeans aesthetic.
Tan Brown Forever Comfort® Leather Charm Boat Shoes
But honestly, whatever you pair them with, just know that you'll get nods of approval and heaps of style points from fashion girls everywhere.
Keep scrolling for some of our other favourite boat shoes from different brands:
Suede Contrast Slip On Flat Boat Shoes
Mint Velvet Hallie Neutral Suede Deck Shoes
Sophie Williams is a Freelance Journalist and Copywriter, covering everything from Fashion to Entertainment to music, Lifestyle and Features. She has interviewed a range of musical artists and authors including Alyssa Edwards, Courtney Barnett, Confidence Man, The Vaccines, Loyle Carner, Gabrielle, and John Niven, and has written for publications like Metro, Reader's Digest, ITV's Woo! and Vice’s NBGA. She is also working on a book for HarperCollins about Taylor Swift, due to be published in 2024.
