How to Wear Trendy Top-Siders

Top-siders have been reborn in fashion popularity in the recent months, splashing the pages of US Weekly, In Style, O Magazine, Elle, Shape, Seventeen and Vanity Fair. Top-siders, also known as "boat shoes," are casual additions to a laid-back, nautical-inspired wardrobe. They are comfortable, long-lasting and incredibly chic when worn correctly. Pairing trendy top-siders with current women's styling is easy, fashion-forward and inexpensive.

Instructions

1. 

   Purchase top-siders. While many styles are available, consider a purchase of a classic pair with a neutral, universal color to optimize outfitting options. Additionally, buy a flat-soled shoe (as opposed to wedge styles) for practical everyday use. Buy top-siders directly from a manufacturer or from a variety of retail stores, including Macy's and Zappos.

2. Wear top-siders with jeans and fitted sweaters in the cold months. Top-siders channel an earthy, preppy vibe; consider pairing them with Nautica or JCrew and other classic, tailored clothing. Top-siders are meant to be worn with existing wardrobe favorites: navy blazers, skinny jeans and menswear-pieces all look great with boat shoes.

3. Pair top-siders with khaki shorts or a denim skirt in the summer. A perfect complement to tanned legs, top-siders highlight thin legs and curvy features. Match with a comfy, vintage-style American Apparel T-shirt and lightweight summer scarf for a glamorous, outdoorsy look.

4. Enjoy top-siders in the environment they were created. Wear top-siders to boating activities, such as sailing, to experience their true function.

5. Avoid wearing top-siders with stripes, anchors, sailboat images and other overtly nautical garments. Utilize boat shoes as an interesting companion to other wardrobe pieces and avoid over-dramatizing a love for the sea.

6. 

   Peruse magazines to spot top-sider outfits. Investigating celebrity fashion choices will help alleviate any confidence concerns.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy high-quality top-siders for years of wear.

Resources

• Sperry Top-Siders
• Zappos Online Shoe Store