It's The Moment For: Sailor Chic

I particularly liked the recent Chloe resort show. The clothes were done in beautiful colors, and they were inspiring in shape and proportion yet were realistic and wearable. I especially loved a nautical-influenced navy and white sweater, and it got me thinking about sailor clothes. The sailor theme is one of those trends that never seems to go away. In recent years, Chanel and The Row have both shown collections based around navy and white striped sailor shapes, and it-girls like Alexa Chung and Kate Middleton seem to have a continuous fascination with the same theme. I am an admirer of the more subtle nautical look myself - I like a trend that fits into my life, rather than trying to fit my life into a trend - but I do love the more literal variations on other people who have the confidence to carry them off. Probably most bold was Princess Diana, who wore an 80's extreme version that rivalled a Disney costume. In personal style, as in most things, there is a time and a place for everything.

My favourite look from Chloe resort, which showed it New York last week.

Jean Harlow, 1932. I like how simple her sailor get-up is.

Nautical chic comes in all shapes and sizes.

Susanna Wassaman sailing in Newport Harbour, 1974.

Alexa Chung loves to find a theme and stick with it. This is part of what makes her style so recognizable. Peter pan collars, leopard print, and sailor-collared dresses have all become an essential part of her look.

Princess Diana, 1989, in all her kitschy nautical glory.

The Duchess of Cambridge following in Diana's footsteps in a more discreet and refined Alexander McQueen version of the sailor look.

I love how Alexa uses the roughness of black leather to tone down the sweetness of the sailor dress.

Coco Chanel getting an early start on nautical inspiration. Is there anything chic that she isn't the genesis of?

Jerry Hall, 1980. Another over-the-top 80's moment.

I love these Pierre Hardy stripe-y sandals. They'd be so chic with just a simple white dress.

Coco again.

Coco's influence continues today in a recent Chanel collection inspired by sailing.

I think I'll get one of these hats. Not sure where I'm wearing it, but I love it.

Couldn't help showing you one more of 80's Princess Di. So bold and fabulous.

One of my favourite collections from The Row was a modern version of a retro nautical vibe. Every piece was a classic.