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Nautical Jewelry and Peasant Blouses

Is the beach your happy place? Do you enjoy frolicking in meadows? Are you having a “sardine girl” summer? Are you sick of all of your tank tops and t-shirts already this season? Does your style need a mid-summer reboot? If your answer is yes to any of these questions, then let’s talk about two slightly opposing, but surprisingly refreshing trends. Both nautical jewelry and peasant blouses are having moments this season.

First, seashore-inspired trinkets. If you’re not by the sea, then nautical jewelry is an unexpected way to tap into those beachy vibes. And if you have an upcoming beach vacay, then add “picking up a few on-theme accessories” to your trip preparation to-dos.

Now, you may already have some seashell-inspired earrings and necklaces or have come across rope-like bracelets and anchor rings in some thrift store shopping. However, if you’re in dire need of budget-friendly nautical pieces, there’s Revolve’s Aqua Starfish Earrings online for $25. These gold-tone metal starfish studs are delicate and subtle and can make a cute seaside statement when worn with Bermuda shorts and a striped tee. Revolve also features Shell Earrings for $23, which are gold-plated and can complement a dramatic look, such as a flowing maxi dress or caftan.

If bracelets are more of your style and you’re looking for something eclectic, then there’s Free People’s Rollins Bracelet in pink, seafoam, or yellow. This corded bracelet features a mix of seaside-inspired beads and braided textiles. Consider pairing it with the brand’s Ariana Ost Deep Sea Anklet for a major beachy boho look when worn with jean shorts, a button-down, and sandals. For something with a bit more impact that boldly embraces the nautical jewelry trend, check out J.Crew Factory’s Nautical Charm Bracelet. Complete with shells, pearls, and a cute fish charm, style this bracelet with a simple white linen dress and cork wedges for an evening of strolling the boardwalk or a summer date night.

Tread lightly with nautical accessories; you can (pun intended) go overboard quite easily, so stick to one or two pieces at most in your look. If your seaside jewelry verges on campy or kitschy, you may want to scale back the rest of your look. And, while nautical jewelry is right on brand for a seaside or boat trip, most of these pieces should not be worn in the water. For waterproof jewelry that’s not necessarily beachy, but more so minimalist, check out the brand Ana Luisa. Full disclosure: I have several pieces from this brand that I haven’t taken swimming, but they offer a variety of rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets that are advertised as waterproof, accompanied by a 2-year guarantee included with the purchase.

Next up, peasant blouses. By midsummer, figuring out what kind of top to pair with seasonal bottoms, such as circle skirts, cargo shorts, and linen trousers, can be a challenge. For me, at this time of year, I’m kind of sick of classic t-shirts and prefer more coverage at times than tank tops serve. Peasant blouses have a summery aesthetic and can also elevate your warm-weather basics.

Peasant blouses traditionally have been high-necked with folksy embroidery and loose sleeves. More modern features include ruffles, patterns, lace, and even cropped silhouettes. For summer, you’ll want a light, airy version in breathable fabric like Boot Barn’s Cleo + Wolf Women’s Christopher Solid Peasant Top. This rayon blouse can liven up your everyday look of a top and jeans, or blouse and skirt, while also being easy and comfortable to wear.

If you’re ready to embrace the bohemian side of this trend with wide-open arms, then check out Natural Life’s full range of shirts and blouses. Their Sierra Ruffle Mesh Top comes in either a blue patchwork pattern or a green painterly vines print, featuring the classic peasant full-sleeve design with a romantic ruffle trim. This deep V-necked top begs to be paired with laidback linen drawstring pants or a loose-fit jogger.

Normally, I would not recommend wearing both nautical jewelry and a peasant blouse, as their aesthetics can be quite disparate. A statement piece like Sleneichast’s Seabeach Boho Chic Necklace worn with Easy Clothes’ Ecru and Blue Embroidered Salome Blouse feels way over the top. However, the right shirt, such as Kohl’s LC Lauren Conrad Henley Puff Sleeve Peasant Top in a blue-and-white stripe, begs to be styled with a nautical piece, like Kiel James Patrick’s Anchor Pearlfection Bracelet. And a corded or “fisherman” rope bracelet can play towards the rustic feel of a rough-hewn shirt like Lovestitch’s Set Free Cropped Peasant top in black or stone. So, I stand somewhat corrected; you can mix peasant blouses with nautical jewelry, but style them with a light touch.