Non-Preppy Ways To Wear Sebago Boat Shoes

A casually smart getup

Photographer Byron Keulemans

Sebago boating shoes have a year-round versatility with the right styling. They come in a wide array of colours and are a modern choice to  make any outfit look cool, polished, and effortless. Curious, but still not entirely sure how to build an actual outfit around it? Here's my favourite ways to rock the Portland Archive boat shoes.

PRODUCT KNOWLEDGE 101: Constructed to be the perfect nautical footwear, these long-lasting boat shoes are made of a unique pieces of unlined full-grain leather in different colours drawn from the historical Sebago archives and are hand-sewn with the finest craftsmanship: they come with leather sock lining, 360° rawhide lace system and non-marking anti-slip siped rubber soles to offer stable grip in all weather conditions. 

If you want to dress to impress, these mid grey and pink boat shoes are awesome. By choosing a pair that matches your outfit, you can look well put together without seeming like you are trying too hard. In this case let your footwear be the hero in your look. I am all for giving wardrobe icons a fresh twist.

Jeans and boat shoes go well together. Start by cuffing the bottom of the jeans to give a more laid back style. The moccasin-style shoe works well with jeans especially if you wear it with a check shirt. This outfit combination makes the boat shoe look more casual than preppy and the cuffed jeans draw attention to your footwear. 

If you’re donning a suit, there are no strict rules when it comes to footwear. Choosing a complementary but fresh colourway creates an interesting dynamic. This navy forest option will bring your formal attire down a notch. No tie required. 

Boat shoes with cuffed pants is a no brainer— make sure the colour of the pants and shoes don’t clash. For example, if you  going to wear navy pants, try a lighter or darker shade like these two-tone blue Portland Archive. If you go with khaki pants, opt for a brown or tan shoe. The two-colour scheme in the boat shoes will create a favourable impression. 

These stunners are all the proof you need that boat shoes can work with almost anything in your wardrobe.

TIPS FOR WHEN BUYING BOAT SHOES

Leather and suede are your best bet when it comes to fabric choices because they are easy to maintain.

Firm grip and excellent traction is what defines the functionality of a boat shoe.

 If you are investing in a pair, look for essential features like the anti-slip sole, leather laces or water resistant properties to keep your style in check.

Comfort is key – so choosing ​the right fit is essential.