How to Shop the Trend

Summer may be drawing to a close, but ladies, don’t put away your fish-themed accessories just yet. Sardine-core, the viral trend that had legions of fashionistas embracing playful pieces inspired by the tin fish, will be taking on a new form for fall as the fisherman aesthetic. And the good news is, you don’t need to own a yacht to master the nautically-informed look.

The key to mastering “fisherman-core” lies in classic wardrobe staples (think: Breton stripe tees, cable-knit sweaters, and jeans) and autumnal hues, along with resistant outerwear that can withstand the upcoming weather shift, like barn jackets. Footwear such as fisherman sandals and boat shoes are great options for the start of the season before its time to switch to boots again. You can even take fisherman look a step further with the fun and quirky fish-shaped bags and jewelry you may have been wearing throughout summer.

As we gear up for autumn, here are 12 timeless styles you’ll want for achieving the fisherman aesthetic look.

Breton Stripe Tees

There is perhaps no style of clothing more synonymous with the fisherman aesthetic than Breton stripe shirts. Originally worn by sailors in the mid-19th century, the nautical boat-neck tops are the epitome of the easygoing fisherman attitude. They have the panache to make a casual outfit look more polished, can be styled in oh so many ways, and frankly, look great on everyone. For a modern way to wear yours, we recommend pairing it with barrel leg jeans and fisherman sandals (or welly boots!).

Relaxed Denim

Because the fisherman aesthetic has a laidback vibe, opt for a relaxed pair of jeans. We love the shape of a barrel leg silhouette for a more contemporary look or a striped cuffed style for a look that is very on theme.

Fisherman Sandals

Fisherman sandals have been one of the biggest shoe trends over the last couple of years, so it was only a matter of time before the fisherman aesthetic swept along. Perfect for the transitional weather, these lattice silhouettes will look fantastic solo at the start of the season and then layered with your favorite socks once it starts getting nippy again.

Fisherman Sweaters

Once sweater weather rolls around again, a chunky, cable-knit crewneck will come in handy for channeling the fisherman-esque look. There are heaps of options to choose from, but if you’re looking for a more authentic look, I’d start by searching for sweaters with the traditional Aran Island cables. Here are some examples:

Barn Jackets

Great news: the beloved barn jacket is here to stay. Best recognized for its weatherproof waxed cotton shell and distinct corduroy collar, it’s a transitional weather workhorse. Fall’s latest styles are already starting to drop and too good to pass up.

Cool Khakis

The fisherman aesthetic color palette consists of warm, earthy shades, such as greens and beiges. Hence why khakis or chinos fit perfectly into this laidback maritime trend. We love the look of a barrel leg or cuffed hem on the options listed below:

Boat Shoes

Boat shoes are having their well deserved moment in the sun, and it couldn’t come at a better time. Wear yours with a Breton shirt and khakis, and you’ll look every bit the picture of a chic fisherman.

Raincoat Outfit Aesthetic

‘Tis the season when the coat is the star of the look. Earlier this year, Pinterest reported that the “raincoat outfit aesthetic” was a trend to watch in 2025. Here are four styles to consider for cold and rainy days ahead:

Rubber Rain Boots

There will come a time in fall when it’s time to pack away your fisherman sandals and boat shoes for the year. Rubber rain boots are must-haves for real fishermen and will come in handy on cold, damp days later in the season.

Fish Bags

Sardine bags, but make them suitable for fall! Bottega Veneta and Fendi are just a few designers who have have embraced the maritime theme with fish-inspired bags in recent years. But if you’re looking for something a little more pared-back, a simple net bag is a casual-cool alternative.

Fish Jewelry

Pay homage to the trend with whimsical on-theme accessories. These fish-shaped jewels are the perfect combination of playful and polished.

Fisherman-Inspired Hats

Something as simple as a knitted beanie or bucket hat can perfectly tie your look together this fall. Here are four neutral styles to have on your radar.