At New York Fashion Week, MONSE’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection brought together a dynamic fusion of classic American heritage and contemporary fashion innovation, and at the heart of the show were footwear pieces from the iconic American brand Sperry. As models strutted down the runway, Sperry’s boat shoes and sneakers became a key focal point, proving that the timeless style of the brand continues to influence modern fashion, particularly with their place in MONSE’s elevated prep aesthetic.
From MONSE SS25, Photo Credit: Andrew Werner
The Boat Shoe Reimagined
Sperry’s boat shoes have long been a symbol of coastal chic, combining functionality and style, and at MONSE’s SS25 show, these shoes were given new life through creative styling and modern design twists. Three of Sperry’s iconic boat shoe designs—the Authentic Original Boat Shoe, the chunky platform Bayside Boat Shoe, and the flat-heeled Wells Boat Shoes—were seamlessly integrated into many of MONSE’s signature preppy looks. These shoes brought both edge and elegance, complementing the layered, deconstructed, and bold striped outfits that defined the collection.
From MONSE SS25 Runway show, Photo Credit: Andrew Werner
The versatility of the boat shoe was on full display, pairing effortlessly with the tailored yet rebellious energy that MONSE designers Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia have mastered. From sharp blazers to oversized knits and asymmetrical skirts, the boat shoes became a versatile base for each look, striking the perfect balance between refined and casual. The chunky Bayside Boat Shoe, in particular, offered a statement-making platform that stood out against the more traditional cuts and fabrics of the collection, making it clear that boat shoes are evolving for the next generation.
A Fresh Take on an American Classic
What made this collaboration between MONSE and Sperry so exciting was how it honored American heritage while pushing forward into fresh, new territories. “We love the history of Sperry. It’s a true American brand, and we thought it would be fun to give the shoes a MONSE twist for our Americana collection,” shared Laura Kim and Fernando Garcia, co-founders and co-creative directors of MONSE. The combination of MONSE’s avant-garde deconstruction of classic prep with Sperry’s long-standing boat shoe tradition resulted in a collection that felt both nostalgic and innovative.
From MONSE SS25 Runway show, Photo Credit: Andrew Werner
For the SS25 collection, Sperry’s shoes were reinterpreted with a twist that perfectly aligned with MONSE’s non-traditional take on Americana. The collaboration successfully brought a modern edge to the classic footwear, reaffirming that boat shoes will remain a staple in the fashion world well into next season.
The Classic CVO Sneaker’s Casual Appeal
While the boat shoes were a standout, Sperry’s Classic CVO Sneaker also made a memorable appearance. These sneakers provided a more laid-back and youthful alternative in the lineup, blending perfectly with the sportier elements of MONSE’s collection. Paired with skirts that boasted high slits, sporty stripes, and bold layering, the CVO Sneaker offered a fresh, relaxed vibe, rounding out the collection with an additional element of casual cool.
From MONSE SS25 Runway show, Photo Credit: Andrew Werner
Conclusion: Sperry’s Timeless Appeal in the Modern Fashion Landscape
The MONSE SS25 show demonstrated that Sperry’s classic designs have the flexibility and staying power to transcend time and trends. Whether in the form of the traditional boat shoe or the versatile CVO Sneaker, Sperry continues to innovate while staying true to its roots. The collaboration between Sperry and MONSE illustrates the power of merging heritage with modern fashion, and it’s clear that Sperry will be a key player in footwear trends for the upcoming season.
With Sperry’s history and MONSE’s flair for the unexpected, this partnership successfully redefines prep for a new generation, proving that some classics are always in style.