When I think of boat shoes , I’m reminded of my freshman year of high school, circa 2012. Back then, the marker of It-girl status was a pair of perfectly polished Sperry Top-Siders in tan—though ivory and navy were also acceptable. Originally designed for traction on slippery decks, the nautical staple quickly found its way into my teenage closet, right alongside pleated skirts and polo tees ( preppy-chic was the ultimate fashion trend in the twenty-tens). Not to be confused with loafers , boat shoes are typically defined by their lower vamp, lace-up detailing, and water-resistant leather construction. But beyond their practicality, they’ve long held their place as a versatile essential. For that very reason, I’ve found myself falling for the maritime-inspired style all over again. And as it turns out, I’m not alone—designers are on board too.…