The Art Of Tying Tommy Hilfiger Boat Shoes

Tommy Hilfiger is a well-known lifestyle brand that has been a pioneer of classic, American cool style for over 35 years. Their boat shoes are a popular choice for many, with their men's Bowman boat shoe receiving 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon. However, some customers have reported issues with the fit and durability of the shoes, specifically mentioning that the laces broke after a few wears. In this article, we will explore the different ways to tie Tommy Hilfiger boat shoes to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.

Contrast topstitch detailing and a classic moc-toe profile

Tommy Hilfiger's boat shoes are a popular choice for men's footwear. They are known for their quality, appearance, and comfort. The brand offers a range of styles, including the classic moc-toe profile, which has a distinctive U-shaped stitching on the toe box. This type of stitching is known as contrast topstitch detailing, where the thread used is in a different colour to the shoe, creating a subtle yet eye-catching detail.

Contrast topstitch detailing elevates the look of the shoe, adding a pop of colour and a refined touch. It is a subtle way to make a statement and set your boat shoes apart from the rest. The moc-toe profile, with its U-shaped stitching, further enhances the overall aesthetic, giving the shoe a unique and memorable appearance.

The moc-toe profile, made popular by brands like Red Wing and Thorogood, is characterised by its moccasin-style stitching on the toe box. This style of stitching is not just decorative but also functional, as it provides added support and structure to the shoe. The moc-toe design was originally created with farmers and hunters in mind, offering comfort and durability for long periods of outdoor activity.

The combination of contrast topstitch detailing and the classic moc-toe profile results in a shoe that is both stylish and functional. The stitching detail adds interest and sophistication to the shoe's design, while the moc-toe profile ensures a comfortable and secure fit, making Tommy Hilfiger boat shoes an excellent choice for those seeking quality and style.

The moc-toe profile, with its distinctive stitching, is a signature look for boat shoes, and when paired with contrast topstitch detailing, it creates a shoe that stands out. This combination of design elements elevates the boat shoe, giving it a modern twist while still retaining its classic appeal.

Manmade upper; manmade sole

The upper of a shoe is any part above the sole that wraps around your foot. Without the upper, you'd basically have a flip-flop. The upper of a shoe is connected to the sole by a strip of leather, rubber, or plastic that is stitched between it and the sole, known as a welt.

Manmade shoe uppers are made from non-leather materials, usually polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyurethane (PU). These materials are heat-stamped with an artificial leather grain to make them look like leather. Faux leather is also known as synthetic or vegan leather. Advances in technology have introduced several innovative alternatives to animal skin.

The sole of a shoe is the bottom part that is in contact with the ground. Soles can be made from a variety of materials, although modern shoes usually have soles made from natural rubber, polyurethane, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) compounds.

Manmade soles are usually made of leather or resin rubber for dress shoes and natural rubber or a synthetic material for casual or work-oriented shoes.

When buying shoes, it's important to consider the material of the upper and sole as this can affect the durability, breathability, flexibility, and comfort of the shoe.

Pairing with a button-front shirt and chinos

Tommy Hilfiger boat shoes are a versatile piece of footwear that can be dressed up or down, making them a great choice for pairing with a button-front shirt and chinos. Here are some tips to help you style this combination:

Choosing the Right Chinos

When selecting chinos to pair with your button-front shirt and boat shoes, opt for a medium rise, flat front style without pleats. Look for a pair that has a close-fitting seat and a leg that is tailored close to the body. The length of the chinos should fall somewhere between the top of your shoe and the top of your heel. Avoid heavily washed or faded chinos as these can be harder to dress up.

Colours and Fits

For a classic and versatile look, choose neutral-coloured chinos such as black, brown, white, grey, navy, olive, or the traditional khaki. If you want to add a bit of interest, consider colours like burgundy or olive green. When it comes to fit, slim-fit chinos offer a more modern and tailored silhouette, while straight-fit chinos provide a classic and relaxed look.

Styling the Button-Front Shirt

A button-front shirt can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. For a more formal look, tuck your shirt into your chinos and consider adding a blazer or sport coat. If you're going for a casual vibe, you can leave the shirt untucked and roll up the sleeves. A well-fitted polo shirt is also a great option for a slightly dressier casual look.

Footwear Options

Boat shoes are a perfect choice for pairing with button-front shirts and chinos. They offer a stylish and comfortable option for both casual and semi-formal occasions. When selecting boat shoes, consider colours that complement your chinos and shirt. You can also experiment with different materials like leather or suede to add texture to your outfit.

Accessories

Accessories can enhance your overall style and help tie your look together. Consider adding a belt that complements your shoes, a watch, a cap, or a simple necklace. A pair of stylish sunglasses can also elevate your outfit, protecting your eyes from the sun while adding a touch of sophistication.

Remember, the key to successfully pairing button-front shirts, chinos, and boat shoes is to focus on fit, colour coordination, and accessories. Don't be afraid to experiment and find the combination that suits your personal style!

Dressing up with a polo shirt, jeans, and a sports jacket

Choose the Right Polo Shirt

Select a polo shirt that fits you well. The bottom hem should not fall below your hip, and the length should be such that you can tuck it in or leave it untucked without looking too long. The sleeves should hit around the middle of your bicep and not run longer than 2/3 down your upper arm. Opt for a polo shirt that is fitted but not too tight, allowing some room for movement.

When it comes to fabric, 100% cotton is the most recommended option for breathability and comfort. You can choose between pique, which is thicker and more structured, or jersey, which is softer and smoother like a t-shirt.

Avoid polo shirts with large logos, and instead go for a plain shirt or one with a small, tasteful logo. Also, steer clear of long-sleeved polo shirts, as they can look out of place and funny.

Pair it with the Right Jeans

When wearing a polo shirt with jeans, it is essential to find the right fit. Avoid jeans that are too long, as they can stack up on top of your shoes and look sloppy. A little bit of "pants break" is acceptable, but aim for jeans that are the proper length or can be cuffed to show off your ankles.

Medium or light wash jeans pair well with medium or light brown loafers, while darker jeans will complement darker brown, burgundy, or black loafers.

Add a Sports Jacket

When adding a sports jacket to your ensemble, opt for a soft, relaxed, unstructured jacket made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen. Avoid structured wool jackets, as they can clash with the casualness of the polo shirt.

Make sure the collar of your polo shirt stays upright and straight within the jacket's lapels. You can use collar stays to help with this.

Choose a polo shirt with a solid color or subtle pattern, as stripes or loud patterns can be too busy and casual for the sports jacket.

Final Touches

To complete the look, consider tucking in your polo shirt, especially if you are going for a more formal or professional appearance. This can give you a polished look without sacrificing comfort.

You can also add a belt and a pair of leather lace-up shoes or loafers to elevate the outfit further.

Remember, the key to pulling off this look is to find the right balance between casual and formal pieces, ensuring that your clothing fits well and complements your personal style.

Wearing with shorts and no-show socks

Tommy Hilfiger boat shoes are a great option for a casual, preppy look in the warmer months. The brand is known for its timeless style, quality, and elegance, and its boat shoes are no exception. When wearing them with shorts, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you look stylish and put together.

First, consider the level of detail on your boat shoes. If your shoes are detailed and attention-grabbing, opt for a pair of shorts that are more tailored and plain. This will create a balanced look that isn't overkill. For example, if your boat shoes are in a bold colour or have decorative laces, choose a pair of classic chino shorts in a neutral hue. On the other hand, if your boat shoes are more minimalistic, you can afford to go for a bolder pair of shorts, such as a bright colour or fun print.

The length of your shorts is also important. To show off your boat shoes, choose a pair of shorts that hit at or above the knee. This will ensure that your shoes are visible and not overshadowed by your shorts.

No-show socks are a great option to wear with boat shoes and shorts. They will give you the comfort of having socks without ruining the look of your outfit. Look for a pair of no-show socks that are low-cut and made from a breathable material, such as cotton or bamboo. This will help keep your feet cool and comfortable during the warm weather.

Lastly, don't be afraid to have fun with your accessories. Boat shoes are a great base for a summer outfit, and you can add your own personal touch with hats, sunglasses, or a light scarf. Just remember to keep the overall look effortless and relaxed, which is what Tommy Hilfiger is all about.

Frequently asked questions