A gentleman’s guide to yachting style
Seafaring style is beyond importance - so don't be afraid to push the boat out...
Words: Kim Silverman
It’s two weeks until the glamorous Cannes Film Festival. And, although you may not be coasting up to the glitzy event in a shining superyacht, stepping down the gangway directly onto the red carpet, that doesn’t mean you can’t follow the example of these yachtsmen – gents who sail with style.
So assume the yachting uniform. Linen shirts will keep you looking and feeling cool, and billow in the gentle Mediterranean breeze. Sunglasses will protect you from reflections – and the blazing sun the morning after the night before. Swim shorts ensure you’re scuba-ready at all time, boat shoes because, well, look where you are and of course, a ready-for-anything diving watch.
Just don’t be the one reaching for the novelty captain’s hat…
Now, we’re not talking shirts so billowy they may as well be kaftans – let’s make that abundantly clear. Rather, instead of throwing on a shirt that looks like it’s been borrowed from your father’s wardrobe, look for the impeccably tailored, lightweight linen garments that are both stylish and casual. Trust us, they’re out there.
The ultimate linens on offer today will be both slightly tailored – but never tight – and have detailing and colours that show a relaxed appeal. And, if you’re really after the Paul Newman look, forget buttoning it up and pop the collar for added cool.
If, like most people, you’re hoping at some point to leap front your yacht into the cool swirling waters of the Med – be this for snorkelling or a simple swim – you need to be well-equipped in the swim short department.
A perilous buy, swim shorts can easily be too long or – heaven forbid – too short. Colours, patterns and cuts will all change once wet, so you have to bear this in mind when buying too. It can be daunting taking the plunge – quite literally – so allow us to point you in the right direction.
The image of your hand on the wheel of a superyacht just wouldn’t be complete without a trusty, and timeless diving watch strapped around your wrist. Their classic design and resilience to deep-diving make them ideal companions both on-deck and overboard.
Since your outfit will be simple up top – that is, if you’re not going bare-chested – a pair of shades will, for the most part, be the most prominent piece of clothing above the drawstring of your swim shorts. Along with your diving watch, these sun-shades will create your duet of yachting accessories – so invest wisely.
Whether it’s the iconic and classic Wayfarers famously worn by JFK during his days at sea, or a pair of aviators such as those donned by Steve McQueen himself, choose a pair that suit your face – and don’t be afraid to push the boat out.
Understandably, the boat shoe has developed a bad rep within some circles. But, despite being much-maligned as a symbol of preppy, Ivy-leaguers, this is the steadfast summer shoe of many, and can be the pinnacle of seafaring style.
Kept away from khakis and denim jeans, a pair of these iconic shoes should be a part of your chartering wardrobe, and pair effortlessly with slim cotton chinos and shorts.
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