The world of fashion does not stand still, daily delighting consumers with more new and unusual models of clothes and shoes. A wide choice, of course, can not but rejoice, but it often happens that shoe variety is confusing.
Often, people adhere to already established combinations in clothes, choosing familiar, “canonical” pairs of products and combinations, because they are afraid in search of new products “turn the wrong way” and ultimately look ridiculous.
Among fashionable stylish new items, such models of shoes as espadrilles and slip-ons are included, moccasins and soft t-shirts that have already taken root are incredibly popular, and more recently, Western trends brought universal boaters to the domestic world of fashion.
Many people ask the question, not understanding what it is, the answer is simple, boaters are a type of shoe designed for both women and men. Boaters are soft leather or textile slippers with an elastic rubberized sole, providing maximum comfort when walking.
This type of shoe has lacing, which is not used as a functional element, but acts as such a kind of decor.
This shoe model is so unusual and interesting that it deserves a detailed review of the history of occurrence, varieties and features of socks and care.
History of creation
The existence of boaters began back in 1935, and Paul Sperry, the owner of the eponymous corporation, became the creator of this amazing shoe that looks like moccasins.
Initially, boaters were conceived for use as sailors' shoes, since the special sole structure, equipped with a refrain tread, reduces the sliding force on wet and slightly frozen surfaces.
The surface of the shoe is equipped with a special layer of an impregnating substance that protects against moisture, so the legs will always remain dry and warm, which is especially important for lovers of “going out to sea”.
A little later, creative designers of the Sebago brand brought something to the appearance of boaters, which served as their further distribution around the world, as well as penetration into the women's wardrobe, where they settled for a long time and began to enjoy unprecedented popularity.
Initially, boaters were conceived as light, summer shoes, which is not surprising, since at a different time of the year a different type of boat will be needed on the sea vessel - warmer and denser. But after several decades, designers have developed insulated models of boatsiders, which are popular among fashionable customers to this day.
Features
Like any other type of clothing or shoes, boaters have certain features that are specific to this product.
First of all, it is worth noting the fact that this shoe model belongs to the unisex category, that is, it suits both women and men, without any distinctive features in style. The differences are only in the color and size of the shoes.
A distinctive feature is that the sole of the topsiders, as a rule, is several shades lighter than the product itself, so that the product has such an interesting, unusual look.
The laces of the topsiders, in the classic version, are selected in accordance with the color of the sole.
The material from which the sole is made can also be attributed to the features, since it is rather solid and dense, but at the same time quite convenient and comfortable for long walks.
Models
The only and unique model of boaters is soft semi-sport slippers with a rounded toe and a decorative seam - an arc located on its upper part, as well as with lacing and a rather dense ribbed sole.
As such, there are no significant differences in the model range of boaters, mainly the difference only concerns colors. But a very significant detail, one way or another affecting the appearance of the shoe, is the material from which it is made.
One of the most common and popular models is suede boat shoeswhich, thanks to their velvety surface, look very stylish and expensive. The product has a soft surface, but is not always practical, since suede, although equipped with moisture-resistant impregnation, its wear resistance, however, is not so great.
Much more practical leather boat shoeswhose surface does not get wet even without special impregnation. Leather, being a natural material, familiar to all, fits well with any outfit, giving any look the classic, familiar to us features.
In order to save money, many manufacturers put on sale models made of leatherette, the appearance of which is similar to a product made of natural material. But it’s worth knowing that boaters from faux leatherobtained by synthetic means are less practical, long-term and functional, since artificial material does not "breathe" at all.
Summer models boaters are made from a lighter material - a dense but fairly breathable fabric. A striking representative of such materials is dense cotton, called canvas, shoes from which look not only neat and beautiful, but also are extremely comfortable.
Widespread models of boaters from denim material that looks no less attractive.
Models look interesting and unusual siders made of a material similar to ordinary oilcloth but much denser, as well as having very unusual properties - such boaters shimmer and give off different flares when exposed to sunlight at a certain angle.
Choosing models by season
A rather practical feature is that this type of shoe, although it is a kind of soft slippers, is nevertheless divided into several varieties suitable for different seasonal and weather conditions.
Boat shoes for the summer are made of natural breathable material, and leather and suede products that do not have an additional lining are quite suitable for light coolness or use as replaceable shoes in any room.
For colder weather, fans of boatsiders may need models with a warm lining, which is most often made from light synthetic winterizer or soft fleece - these materials are best known for their thermal functions.
Winter boaters have a dense fur lining, due to which the product looks a couple of sizes larger, so you should carefully approach the choice of size.
The lining, as a rule, is made of natural fur so as not to cause excessive sweating or allergic reactions to synthetic fibers. Sheepskin is always used as fur, due to its practicality, wear resistance and resistance to severe frosts.
Colors
It is reasonable to assume that the colors of the topsiders are the same immense amount as among any other clothes or shoes. It is understandable, because in the age of nano-technologies and other innovations developing at the speed of light, the abundance of colored clothes and shoes is not at all surprising.
Choosing a shoe color is based on the color scheme of the whole image, since it is this part of the outfit that is the final “chord”, completing and complementing it. Therefore, you should familiarize yourself with some elementary rules for choosing colored shoes and its competent combination with other elements of the image.
- Black color - The constant classic, perfect for any outfit. Therefore, acquiring black topsiders, you can safely use them to create many images. Stylish party or business meeting? They are perfect for an event of one nature or another.
- Relatively white boaters one can say the same thing, but with one note - they combine with light dresses much more successfully than with dark ones, helping to create a light, visually not overloaded image.
- Look stylish light boaters of gentle, flesh tones. Pale pink, cream, the color of baked milk, ivory and creme brulee - these are the shades that will help in creating an incredible, delicate look, even if it contains elements of a sporting and everyday style.
- Color shades, also, they look very interesting and beautiful, as they will become indispensable in creating a bright, creative outfit. Boaters of red, bright pink and orange colors are an excellent choice for passionate, self-confident girls. Models of lilac, lemon, light blue and beige shades are perfect for more calm girls.
- Enjoy success and boaters whose material combines several colors. Such models look very harmonious with a combination of clothes of the same shades, creating such a peculiar suit - set.
- Some models have completely regular printfor example, leopard coloring or small peas. And some are made of a special material that shimmers in different shades, depending on the contact with light rays.
How to tie?
Since lacing on boat shoes is a kind of “feature” of the product, as well as a feature that distinguishes this type of shoe from ordinary moccasins, you need to study a couple - three of the unusual ways of tying shoelaces, in order to somehow diversify the look of the shoe.
Before revealing the secrets of interesting ways of lacing, it is worth mentioning that the laces are located directly throughout the edging of the product.
The first and classic way is the usual, well-known bow, which even a child can handle. Vryatli someone may have a problem with tying shoelaces with a bow, so if you don’t want to try and find something new - feel free to choose this method!
Lacing, which is considered permanent, also looks pretty good. Consistency arises from the fact that the ends of the laces are tucked in, fixed and cut, so that the shoes look very neat and stylish.
Another method, which can be classified as constant, differs from the previous one in that the ends of the laces stick out on the surface, and their edges are wound in pretty lumps.
Lacing, called the "fish tail" requires much more effort than the above, because you need to stretch the lace not only horizontally, but also vertically, along the lateral arrangement of the loops. Further, the lace is repeatedly intertwined, catching on the created vertical stripes.
How to choose?
Choosing topsiders is not such a difficult task, since the appearance of the product is quite the same, which greatly facilitates the process.
The key to a comfortable pair of shoes, in addition to quality materials and a comfortable shoe, is the right size. It is worth leaving a little space in the fingers and making sure that the heel does not press, as this can lead to pain and the appearance of corns.
You also need to walk a little in shoes to understand whether the shoe is comfortable and whether further use will cause pain in the feet and other unpleasant sensations.
The shade and type of product should be selected in accordance with the season, as well as the material from which it is made.
What to wear?
Boaters, being, in fact, shoes with flat soles, may not be suitable for every outfit, because in appearance they can be attributed more to sports style. To create different images that are not similar to each other, the same boaters can approach or, on the contrary, radically different models.
For example, boaters in dark colors, made of a material with a matte surface, perfectly fit into the business style, combined with narrowed models of trousers. Such shoes will help not only create a harmonious image, but also diversify the usual office style with unusual shoes.
The most common variant of combining everyday things and this shoe model is obtained when choosing not too short shorts with lapels. It can be both denim products and shorts made of lighter fabrics (such as linen, cotton, chiffon) or more dense (tweed, felted wool, drape, velor).
Mini-skirts of tight and slightly loose styles will also look great with boatsiders of different colors. Since the shoes are still not classic and do not have heels, you should avoid long skirts and knee-length models, since for the most part, closed flats with flat soles will visually shorten your legs and add fullness to them.
Various sports-style knitted dresses, skinny jeans and trousers, and super tight leggings are also suitable.
How to care?
Boaters, like any other shoes, require a careful attitude in order to ensure a longer service life. But there are no special tips, only those that relate exclusively to the quality of the material from which they are made.
- For example, leather products need surface treatment with a special shoe polish;
- For suede, there are special impregnations - sprays that provide maximum surface protection;
- The fabric model should be cleaned with a coarse brush, water and soap (in some cases).
The images
- An image in a sports style, emphasizing the dignity of a slim figure. Short denim shorts with lapels and a decorative belt will help emphasize slender, long legs and elastic buttocks.
A dark green oversized cropped sweater will be a worthy addition, and the finishing touch will be on the stylish and incredibly comfortable lime-colored boat tops with white laces and sole.
- A summer outfit suitable for lovers of an active lifestyle will surely amaze others! What could be more stylish than a combination of light denim breeches, vests and an elongated cardigan without sleeves made of jacket fabric.
White small handbag over his shoulder, stylish glasses and stunning boat shoes from oilcloth, iridescent material - the main dark color of the shoe casts, then blue, then green.
- Another stylish sports image, in the best American traditions. Denim shorts with twists look great with a navy t-shirt with an unobtrusive print. This combination is complemented by a bright green oversized bomber jacket with white trim and cuffs.
The final details of the look are a bright blue bag made of cloth, with brown handles, as well as stunning boatsiders in a delicate pale pink shade.
- An image that fits into the framework of a business style and any office dress code. Skinny black pants, length 7/8, will look great with a blue cotton shirt, decorated with a white "pea" print. The sleeves of the shirt can be tucked up, and the lower edge tucked inside the trousers.
A worthy addition will be a large rectangular bag and stylish black boat shoes that look like elegant flat shoes.
- A light summer outfit suitable for both outdoor activities and boat trips. A short sundress with a free cut, equipped with a traction element in the waist area, looks beautiful and at the same time is very practical.
A stylish light brown bag of large sizes perfectly complements the outfit, and bronze boaters perfectly emphasize the style of its owner.
- An image suitable for rainy summer weather, diluting gray with bright colors. You will need blue slightly loose shorts with lapels and a white jacket of a straight cut with thin blue stripes - a combination in the best traditions of the marine style.
A yellow loose raincoat made of dense material will perfectly combine with white and yellow boatsiders, creating such a peculiar set.
- A stunning, absolutely incredible image that is suitable even for an incendiary party! Wide oversized leather shorts will look great with a white chiffon top tucked in. A striking detail of the look is a stylish bomber jacket with sleeves embroidered with sequins and an unusual print in white and blue colors.
Boaters who fit perfectly into this outfit are made of materials in the same color scheme - blue, white, black.
- A functional look in casual style will amaze others with a combination of unusual stylish details. This white polo shirt with blue breaks and a decorative pink collar looks great with cappuccino shorts.
A large denim bag will serve as a very useful functional element, a black jacket - a cardigan will help in case of cooling, and the stunning light pink boat shoes will look great with short red socks.
- Great walking or hiking outfit! For an active pastime, you need the most convenient things, which is why you should opt for functional black jeans of a skinny model with rather wide lapels, as well as a white loose t-shirt that is perfect for hot weather.
Boaters should choose flesh-colored so that they do not stand out against the background of restraint of the whole image, but are a stylish complement to it.
- An outfit filled with calm and characterized by incredible restraint. Despite the fact that ripped tight jeans are chosen as the bottom, the image does not cease to be less elegant. A stylish blouse and an elongated trench coat the color of coffee with milk did their job, adding a touch of sophistication to the outfit, as well as unobtrusive accessories.
White boat shoes with brown laces will fit in this outfit better than any other shoe.
- A good outfit for a light autumn cool, adding a drop of paint to the gray rainy daily routine. Light jeans - boyfriends look great with a white shirt with a small floral print. This garment is complemented by a turquoise quilted jacket, which, incidentally, is two-sided and has an orange color inside.
Stylish black boat shoes with a white sole and laces fit perfectly in the outfit.