Summer is almost over, which means it's time to retire the Sardine Girl aesthetic. But fish enthusiasts, don't fret—another fashion trend is taking its place as the weather cools, and it has similarly nautical roots. Enter: Fisherman Core. It inspires you to add rain jackets, chunky beanies, cable-knit sweaters—aka anything you'd wear on a boating trip with your dad—to your rotation (with some chic twists, of course). You can pull off the look for as low as $50, but first, here's a little background on the not-so-new trend that feels both practical and posh.
Sardine Girl Summer Is Over—Welcome to Fisherman Core Fall
Bring on the chunky knits and wellies
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What Is the Fisherman Core Aesthetic?
The Fisherman aesthetic was first highlighted in Pinterest's 2025 trend report. And, like clockwork, fashion enthusiasts began to embrace more utilitarian outerwear, including Barbour jackets, chunky knits, rain boots and more cold-weather staples with a nautical vibe. That said, it should come as no surprise that this trend is making a comeback as fall approaches.
Here's How to Get the Look
If you want to get ahead of the trend, I suggest you start adding pictures of Jacques Cousteau and Irish sailors to your Pinterest boards and wrapping your head around the idea of pairing Wellie boots with a cable sweater and a chunky red beanie. And don’t be afraid to get a little cheeky with it—I plan to wear these BaubleBar Ripple Effect fish earrings ($58) with any and everything as a nod to my yet unfulfilled (and entirely unfounded) dreams of a life at sea.
Ahead, I've rounded up 13 items you need to build your ideal fisherman core fall wardrobe. Ahoy!
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1. Free People Frankie Cable Sweater
Free People
A Billy Crystal-inspired cable knit sweater is a classic cold-weather wardrobe staple, especially for those who spend a good deal of time outdoors (like fishermen). This chunky cotton version offers a relaxed fit and comes in 12 other colors, so you might want to consider stocking up on it in multiples.
2. Everlane The Day Fisherman Leather Sandals
Everlane
Channel your inner Katie Holmes with this pair of strappy leather fisherman sandals featuring a square toe and a padded insole. The ankle strap gives them a good deal of support and prevents your feet from slipping around. And as a pretty lazy beauty person, I appreciate that my lack of a pedicure will be less evident in the closed toe. One reviewer also mentioned that they're "comfortable right out of the box," which means you can add them to your lineup instantly.
3. 8 Other Reasons Market Girl Tote Bag
8 Other Reasons
Tote around your catch of the day (i.e., the granola bars and block of cheese you just picked up at the supermarket) in this brightly colored net bag. Its crochet knit exterior is complemented by a twill interior, and it's available in two colors: ivory and red. While can't go wrong with either option, I think the red will provide the perfect pop of color to your fisherman-inspired fits.
4. BaubleBar Ripple Effect Fish Earrings
BaubleBar
Not quite ready to give in to the peer pressure (sorry, not sorry) of adopting a whole new aesthetic? Give a cheeky nod to the trend with a chic pair of fish earrings. According to BaubleBar, the turquoise stones are designed to "mimic the look of fish scales," while the gold details add an elegant touch. Plus, these will definitely keep a little glint of summer alive through the dreary days.
5. L.L.Bean Signature Denim Chore Coat
L.L.Bean
Can you ever have too many denim jackets? Yes, you can, but this chore coat version is just too cute to pass on—especially while it's on sale. The rounded collar and minimalist design are oh-so chic. And the relaxed fit allows for layering underneath without needing to size up.
6. Boden Button Mariner Breton
Boden
Not to be too on the nose, but this is called the Mariner Breton. This classic style (inspired by the uniforms of French sailors) is made of 100 percent cotton, which one reviewer reported is "a nice weight" and "not clingy." And those buttons along the shoulder? Let's just say they take nautical style to the next level, so I wouldn't wait too long to add it to my cart.
7. Tombolo ‘Le Sirenuse’ Cap
Tombolo
A fun alternative to a Jacques Cousteau-inspired beanie cap is this retro-looking baseball cap made in collaboration with Le Sirenuse, the iconic hotel in Positano. The patch in front is an homage to the sirens of the sea, and there is an adjustable plastic strap at the back. The interior also features signatures and notes from famous guests of Le Sirenuse for a fun finish.
8. Frame Bubble Barrel-Leg Jeans
Frame
The combination of the barrel shape, rigid cotton and very dark wash gives these jeans major fisherman vibes. That said, they also come in multiple other washes, including lighter if you prefer. The waist has a high rise, and reviewers say the style fits true to size.
9. Helly Hansen Moss Rain Coat
Helly Hansen
No fisherman’s wardrobe would be complete without a dependable rain jacket. Bonus point if it’s in a bright color, too (easier to spot in inclement weather). Helly Hansen creates incredibly classic outerwear in a wide range of colors and designs for fall, but this yellow style is by far one of the most fisherman-worthy, thanks to its long cut, drawcord hood and drop-in pockets.
10. Hunter Wellies
Hunter
There are tons of Wellies out there to fit any and all styles, but my heart will always belong to the OG Hunter tall rain boots. They’re surprisingly comfortable, though I do recommend wearing them with knee-length socks or boot liners for maximum comfort. They’re also incredibly durable—I have a pair that I’ve worn for ten years and counting, and other than a few marks, they look and feel as good as the day I bought them. What more can you ask for?
11. Outerknown Reimagine Cashmere-Blend Beanie
Outerknown
Yes, a bright red beanie cap is a very literal nod to Cousteau and the crew of Wes Anderson’s The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, but poppy red is also a super-trendy color for 2025, and a ribbed knit hat is a must-have for any fall capsule wardrobe. So really, this beanie isn’t just a fisherman-approved, trendy purchase; it’s also a smart investment piece you’ll wear for years. Add to that the fact that this beauty is made of wool and recycled cashmere, which will keep you warm even when wet, and you’ve got yourself a no-brainer add-to-cart.
12. L.L.Bean Upcountry Waxed Cotton Down Vest
L.L.Bean
I’m obsessed with this fashion-minded twist on a classic fisherman’s vest as a way to embrace the trend without going too literal. It’s made of waxed cotton and has 650-fill DownTek, which supposedly repels more moisture and dries faster than standard down. The style is cut longer in the back for added coverage, and the snap-flap patch pockets feature a small stash pocket that makes this layer both functional and fashionable for the sea and beyond.
13. We The Free Moxie Jeans
Free People
Choose from washed citrus or blue stripes for these undeniably cool patchwork pants. They have a barrel silhouette, and the waist comes with an attached rope belt to cinch you in (and play up the seafaring style). Although the brand describes these as low-rise pants, reviewers say they fit more like a mid-rise. Reviewers also say they run a bit large, so if you’re between sizes, you may want to opt for the smaller of the two. Pair with a cozy cable-knit and it'll be smooth sailing into winter.
















