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How I transformed from a shipwreck skeptic to a shipwreck enthusiast.
Fashion is a fickle mistress, one minute we love a trend and the next we can’t stand the sight of it. Shipwreck fashion, the style that channels the spirit of a pirate with a modern twist, initially fell into my personal “do not touch” category. I couldn’t fathom why anyone would want to wear clothes that looked like they’d been battered by waves and left to dry on a deserted island.
For years, I turned my nose to anything distressed or with a nautical theme, convinced that the trend would soon sink to the ocean’s depths. But, as they say, never say never. I’ve come to admit defeat — I’ve fallen head over heels for shipwreck fashion and here I am, extolling the virtues of the trend — something I would have laughed at if you ever told it to my face that I was gonna be doing.
So, come aboard as I dive headfirst into the shipwreck fashion trend and how to achieve the look. The shipwreck-inspired looks ahead have changed my mind and made me want to set sail for a life on the high seas (well, maybe just for a weekend getaway).
Louise Eva
Di Petsa returned to Fall 2023 London Fashion Week and one of the showstoppers from its “wet look” inspired collection was this silver midnight dress. The gown had a shredded, almost tattered appearance that was reminiscent of attire that might be worn by a shipwreck survivor. The metallic silver fabric had an almost otherworldly quality to it, as though it were made from the same material as a mermaid’s tail. The daring cutouts showcased Louise Eva’s toned skin while the neckline added a glamorous touch to the rough-edged look. The dress exuded a rebellious vibe with its shredded detailing, perfectly aligned with the trendy shipwreck chic aesthetic. Despite its stormy appearance, the look maintained its elegance and sophistication, displaying an effortless cool that balanced grunge and glamour in perfect harmony.
Jess May Bury
The bloomy spring drapery silk dress is a striking piece of fashion that showcases Dimitra Petsa’s ability to merge classical mythology with modern fashion. Its billowing silhouette, delicate fabric, and floral pattern all combine to create a stunning visual effect that has surely captured the attention of fashion enthusiasts like me.
Adit Priscilla
Allow me an emphasis on the avant-garde nature of Adit Priscilla in this Blumarine ensemble. The scarlet mesh dress is a masterpiece, boasting a delicate netted pattern that creates a spellbinding visual impact. The fabric seems to have been weathered by the salty waters and crashing waves of the ocean, giving it a shriveled appearance. The dress evokes an underwater aura, reminiscent of a shipwreck, with its unconventional, asymmetrical hemline, and jagged, rough edges.
La Rosalia
The shipwreck chic aesthetic has a certain carefree disorderliness to it. Rosalía effortlessly embodies this vibe with her wet-looking hair, as if she hastily ran out of the shower or braved through a storm. Despite the disheveled appearance, her shipwreck ensemble exudes a sense of peace and triumph. It’s a serene look that was earned through difficult times, as she doesn’t conceal the struggles that brought her here.
This resurgent fashion sensation is making waves amongst style mavens and designers alike in a kind of mash-up that’ll make Ariel’s fins quiver in awe. I’ve come to discover that this trend isn’t your typical maritime motif that resurfaces every few seasons.
Instead, it’s the spunky and rebellious cousin to the whimsical and mystical mermaid core. Check out the OTT creations of labels like Di Petsa and Blumarine who have already flaunted their shipwreck chic collections on the runway, with an influence that I’m as sure as the confidence I have in my name, is only going to intensify.
Dua Lipa
Dua Lipa flaunted a shipwreck-inspired ensemble on her Instagram account, showcasing how to rock this trend with flair. Her outfit was a combination of a sequined netted dress, adorned with crisscrossed straps and a gaping tear at the front, layered over a sheer black slip. To complete the look, she wore knee-high boots in black, bedecked with pearls and silver buckles, and carried a studded handbag that perfectly matched her statement earrings. Her slicked-back ponytail drew attention to her bold makeup, which featured a deep pink lip, rosy cheeks, and radiant, dewy skin.
Hailey Beiber
Hailey Bieber, the fashion-forward, reigning queen of minimalist looks, showcased what I considered summer shipwreck chic with a unique twist. Paparazzi captured her in a skin-tight, long-sleeved white minidress by The Attico, featuring netted detailing, silver studs, and rings. The frock had a wrap-style bottom with oversized silver hardware, and the remaining fabric flowed elegantly toward the ground. Hailey’s shipwrecked fashion was completed with a chic geometric handbag, gold accessories, including a braided choker, and lace-up stilettos. Her outfit was a creative and stylish take on the shipwrecked trend, perfect for the warm weather ahead.
How to Achieve the Shipwreck Look
Looking to achieve the perfect shipwreck look? Look no further than these essential pieces that will form the foundation of your outfit.
Distressed Denim
One of the key aspects of shipwreck fashion is the distressed and weathered appearance of the clothing. This can be achieved through techniques such as washing, sanding, and distressing the fabric and incorporating tears, holes, and frayed edges. This gives the clothing a rugged, lived-in feel that is perfect for outdoor activities or casual wear.
To experiment with this, you can take a pair of old denim jeans and create a distressed look by cutting them into shorts or adding frayed edges. You can use sandpaper or a cheese grater to create the worn-out look and add some bleach or paint splatters for an extra touch of ruggedness.
Knotted Tops
Take a plain white t-shirt or tank top and tie a knot in the front to create a cropped look. You can also try knotting the sleeves to give the top a more nautical feel. Pair it with some high-waisted shorts or a maxi skirt for a beachy vibe.
Fishnet Accents
Incorporate fishnet stockings or a fishnet top into your outfit for a unique texture. You can wear them under ripped jeans or shorts, or even layer them over a swimsuit for a beachy look.
Layered Accessories
Mix and match different accessories to create a layered, bohemian look. Try stacking multiple necklaces, bracelets, and rings for an eclectic feel. Add a wide-brimmed hat or a pair of round sunglasses to complete the look.
Rugged Footwear
Opt for rugged footwear such as combat boots, leather sandals, or worn-out sneakers to add to the shipwreck aesthetic. Pair them with ripped or frayed denim shorts, a breezy top, and a statement necklace for a laid-back yet edgy look.
