What to Wear On A Boat? 9 Old Money Boat Outfits For Women

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Last summer, I wore loosely woven cheap linen pants on a boat. Big mistake.

By noon, they were damp, wrinkled, and clinging to my legs, making a soggy mess. My so-called chic nautical outfit turned into a regretful decision, and I spent the rest of the day side-eyeing influencers in their perfectly pressed stripes, wondering how they do it.

Turns out, they don’t.

They only dress up for the perfect Instagram boat outfit post.

boat outfits for women

Dressing for a day on the water isn’t about looking flawless; it’s about not ending up half-naked after a rogue wave. Nautical outfit lets you climb onto the dock without flashing the crew with fabrics that dry faster than your dignity after you’ve tripped over an anchor.

I’ve lost hats to the wind, ruined sandals in seaweed, and learned the hard way that waterproof mascara is a cruel joke. But I’ve also found gems. A polo shirt that outlasted a yacht party and cotton that actually breathes and dries quickly.

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Image via IG: basicela_

This blog post is for anyone who wants to look good without trying too hard. Just like old-money elegance. There are multiple options, excluding the overpriced nautical fashion gimmicks. 

Come aboard for real advice from someone who’s been humbled by the sea (and a few bad outfit choices).

Let’s get you through the day dry, stylish, and fully clothed.

What Actually Works (And What Doesn’t)

Let’s cut to the chase. I’ve ruined more outfits on boats than I’ve nailed. But over time, I’ve learned what survives saltwater, sunscreen, and that friend who forgot to mention we’d be hauling fishing nets. 

Here’s the no-BS breakdown about what works and what doesn’t.

1. Fabric: Your Make-or-Break Moment

I used to think linen was the answer to everything. Then I wore it on a sailboat. Turns out, low-quality fabric + saltwater = a wrinkled mess that screams “I gave up halfway through the day.”

What works

Quick-dry polyester blends are not so glamorous, but they’ll survive a splash.

Cotton with stretch. It lets you move around without splitting seams on a yacht.

Linen (Belgian or French flax) is lightweight and breathable.

Merino wool. Must sound insane, but it’s breathable and doesn’t hold stink. Trust me.

What doesn’t work

  • Denim (wet jeans weigh 8-10 pounds).
  • Silk (sunscreen stains don’t come out).
  • Cheap linen blends (cllingy mess).
  • Anything “dry-cleans only” (you don’t want your outfit to start shredding after a splash).

2. Sun Protection: Lobster Red Isn’t a Look

I once wore a strappy top on a catamaran. By sunset, I had tan lines that looked so bad. If you do not want lines to feel like a toddler’s painting canvas, do this instead:

Works

UPF-rated shirts: A black UPF tee goes with everything. It will most likely make you wanna stay covered up. 

Wide-brimmed hats: Old money chic. Most importantly, a saviour for direct sunlight.

SPF lip balm: Chapstick with sunscreen. Thank me later.

Skip

  • Strapless anything (you’ll spend the day tugging it up).
  • Floppy hats without chin straps (RIP, my favorite straw hat).

3. Footwear: Don’t Be the “Shoes Overboard” Girl

I’ve lost a sandal to the ocean. Twice. Now I stick to the basics that give off elegance.

Do

Grippy soles. Boat shoes, rubber-soled sandals, and anything that is comfortable and doesn’t have a slippery sole.

Closed toes: Stubbed toes on anchor chains hurt. A lot.

Waterproof: This is an optional choice. Because soggy socks are a vibe-killer.

Avoid

  • Heels (this isn’t a rom-com montage. Also, who wears heels on a yacht?).
  • Flip-flops (they are not going to stick around for long).

4. Layers: Because Boat Weather is a Liar

One minute, it’s sunny; the next, you’ll be freezing in Antarctica. So, better not to trust the boat weather. To not feel like you are placed in a haunted fog machine, or miles away under direct sunlight, keep the following things in mind:

Pack

A windbreaker that folds into a pouch. We want to look Instagrammable, but nothing beats health. Now you do not want to catch a cold there. If styled right, a windbreaker can also look effortlessly chic on you.

A cashmere-blend wrap is optional. It’s warm, doesn’t soak up water, and looks decent when you’re huddled in the cabin.

Leave

  • Bulky sweaters (they’ll get wet and smell like low tide).
  • That “just in case” outfit (you won’t change. You’ll be too busy eating chips so better not to overweigh your luggage).

9 Boat Outfits That Won’t Let You Down

You don’t need 10 old money boat outfits. You need one that works. But since boats aren’t one-size-fits-all, here are 10 ways to stay comfy and look like you’ve got your life together even when you’re secretly Googling “how to survive seasickness.”

1. The Classic Polo Outfit

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Image via Pinterest: Sunshine Girl

The classic polo shirt is the best go-to choice as a boat outfit. Wear it on a casual day when zero labor is required. 

Style Tip: Wear a polo shirt and high-waisted linen shorts with oversized sunglasses and a bandanna to complete your look. 

Shop the look: Cable Knit Polo Shirt

ralph-lauren-polo-shirt
Image via Ralph Lauren

Outfit 2: Oversized Button-Down

An oversized button-down is an all-time old-money aesthetic. You can buy this easily from any quality brand and it will look effortlessly elegant. Choose a 55% Linen, 45% Cotton shirt that dries fast.

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Image via Pinterest: Monaliza Gebrim

Style Tip: The fit is versatile. Wear an open over a swimsuit, knot at the waist with linen shorts, or layer over a tank.

Shop the look: Oversized Linen Blend Shirt

abercombie-linen-shirt
Image via Reformation

Outfit 3: Nautical Stripes (Subtle Edition)

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Image via IG: alexandralapp

Who hasn’t worn stripes on a yacht? Every rich girl. 

Nautical stripes have their own charm. It can be a crew neck shirt, a sweatshirt, or a loose-fit tee. Stripes can elevate your boat’s look instantly. 

No need to layer it over or under any piece. Wear it with high-waisted belted pants for a daytime look. During winter, 21-Merino Wool Blend works best since it is breathable, odor-resistant, and warm when the wind picks up.

HMM Tip: Choose a slim, but not tight fit. Navy/white or gray/cream works best as a boat outfit.

Shop the look: Breton Striped Sweater

breton-striped-sweater
Image via Saint James

Outfit 4: Wrap Dress/Sundress

A sundress is a girl’s best friend in summer. It is a go-to fit for yacht daytime parties and brunches. If you’re not into corporate, serious styles and want to explore your feminine style, go for a wrap dress or a floral sundress.

An adjustable wrap design will omit any wardrobe malfunctions when the boat rocks. The Tencel fabric of a summer dress is lightweight, resists wrinkles, and dries quickly.

Style Tip: Pair a mid-calf length dress with grippy sandals to complete your look.

Shop the look: Nordstorm Floral Wrap Dress

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Image via Nordstorm

Outfit 5: Contrast Swimsuit/Tank Top with Linen Pants

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Image via Pinterest: Editorial

A tank top or well-fitted swimsuit is the most comfortable nautical fashion choice. The idea of wearing a thick-strapped and built-in padded swimsuit is going to leave you running around with ease. 

No need for adjustments after the waves. The mid-weight fabric won’t cling, even when damp.

Style Tip: Pair the swimsuit with white pants for lunch, then lose the pants for a swim. Style it with a raffia tote and gold hoop earrings for “effortless” flair.

Shop the look: ASOS Contrast Swimsuit

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Image via Asos

Outfit 6: Crew Neck Shirt with a Skirt

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Image via Pinterest: Hildegard Clemens

A crew neck is made up of thick cotton that hides sweat and sunscreen. The fit is loose for easy movement around the yacht.  

Pairing a basic crew neck with a skirt makes the outfit worthy of an OOTD photo for the gram. Make sure to wear a belt or waistband over the skirt to bend, sit, or climb without tugging. 

Style Tip: Tuck the shirt in, add a canvas belt, and wear it with rubber-soled sandals.

Shop the look: JCrew Striped Shirt

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Picture via J. Crew

Outfit 7: White Midi Dress

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Image via Pinterest: Stacie Flinner

A cotton white midi dress is thick enough to avoid see-through mishaps in sunlight, and chic enough to be the center of attention. The basic white dress, when accessorised properly, is going to upgrade your look 10x.

Choose one with pockets to hold any necessary items or a phone.

Style It: Wear gold/silver statement earrings and a structured handbag. Add espadrilles with grip or soft-sole sandals.

Shop the look: Revolve White Midi Dress

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Outfit 8: Belted Vest Shirt with Skirt

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Picture via IG: Lamees Mourad

My all-time favorite — a vest shirt. On a yacht, a belted vest with a skirt duo is the ultimate example of classic sophistication. To get that high-end chic look, this combo is the perfect candidate.

A vested top is lightweight for boat fashion. Belts refine the style further, while a skirt should be flowy or pleated as per your choice.

Style It: Belt the vest at the waist, and pair it with chunky loafers.

Shop the look: The Iconic Vest Shirt

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Outfit 9: A Crochet Dress 

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Image via Soho Social

A delicate neutral-toned crochet dress evokes seafoam and goes hand in hand with the gentle ocean vibes. It’s for a daytime yacht party that is going to add subtle glamour to your entire look. 

Pick up lined crochet for modest wear while allowing air to flow through.

Style It: Wear minimal jewelry such as diamonds or pearls. Add flat leather sandals without high heels. Do a lifted hair bun or go with beach waves.

Shop the look: Peppermayo Crochet Dress

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Image via Peppermayo

Styling Tips for Nautical Fashion

  1. Avoid Costume Vibes: Skip anchor prints; opt for subtle navy/white stripes or rope details. You’re there to blend in and still shine through. 
  2. Layer Smart: A cashmere wrap or lightweight scarf adds polish without bulk. Printed bandanna overhead boosts your fashion quotient.
  3. Appropriate Fabric: Durable fabrics for fishing boats and flowy ones for yachts. Opt for grippy sandals for sailboats and waterproof boots for fishing.
  4. Accessorize Minimally: Saltwater can tarnish jewelry; opt for enamel pieces or quality tarnish-resistant jewelry.

Bonus Tip: Don’t forget your sunglasses — the right pair can elevate your entire outfit. These old money sunglasses are a great place to start.

Loved these tips? Which outfit style did you like the most?

Let us know!

About the Author

Picture of Marija

Marija

Marija shares a slower approach to style from her home in Italy — one built on quality, quiet confidence, and a love for what lasts.

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