Spring's 2025 Fisherman Aesthetic Is Luring Everyone In

During Altuzarra’s Fall 2024 show, one piece rose above the mix of workwear jackets and 9 to 5 blazers: a duffle coat anchored by toggle-and-rope fastenings. The style was initially designed for naval sailors but boldly reimagined for the fashion set—who are clocking in as big fans (including our very own Nikki Ogunnaike and Katie Holmes). Much like fashion's take on the barn jacket, the designer's hard-working, yellow wool jacket was juxtaposed with a sweet, ruffled knit top—tapping into our love of an unexpected pairing. But in hindsight, this was one of the flashpoints for what we predict will be one of Spring 2025’s biggest trends: the fisherman aesthetic. Grounded in nautical staples—think hardy rope details, water-resistant fabrics, and function-first silhouettes—the look marries maritime utility with contemporary takes—like the classic Breton strip shirt. Prepare to see classic pieces like the boat shoe and chunky cable knits upgraded with luxury twists.

Rugged in spirit, yes, but Jalil Johnson notes the fisherman aesthetic actually has a refined ethos. “There are certain elements of the fisherman aesthetic—like the aforementioned [cable-knit] sweaters, boat shoes, and khaki pants—that call back to preppy style,” explains Johnson, who recently published an article about the aquatic-themed trend in his Substack newsletter, Consider Yourself Cultured. The fashion expert also views the aesthetic as an extension of the English country style thanks to its close ties with classic heritage pieces.

While predictions point to the fisherman aesthetic as a top 2025 fashion trend, the look has been bubbling beneath the surface for several seasons.

Johnson shares that Miu Miu’s Spring 2024 show was one of the incubators of the 2.0 version of the boat shoe, styled alongside cheeky bikini bottoms and buttoned polo shirts. Nearly a year later, during the Spring 2025 season, Sacai championed bold Breton stripes, and Michael Kors showcased a pair of pristine leather fisherman sandals. Proenza Schouler collaborated on a cute utilitarian rain boot and waterproof clog with function-first footwear brand Sorel.

Look to Alaïa’s accessories for a refined approach to the new fisherman aesthetic: their net-like mesh totes and cult-favorite ballet flats subtly nod to fishing gear material while maintaining the label’s distinct chic. Dior’s Cruise 2025 was more on the nose, unveiling gold jewelry adorned with seashells, pearls, coral reef motifs, and starfish accents.

Johnson says the trend reflects a broader desire for pieces with a human hand's soft touch. “People seem interested in intentionally crafted products,” he says. These designs underline how heritage-inspired elements and thoughtful details resonate in a market shifting toward authenticity and tangible artistry.

But this look—grounded in classics like well-crafted sweaters and fisherman sandals—is entirely accessible, especially if you already have a few staples in your closet. “You can tap into the zeitgeist without straying too far from your personal style,” Johnson notes. Chances are, you’ve got a striped top on standby that’ll get you hooked.

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