As a design trend, nautical décor is clean, airy, warm, and decidedly unstuffy. Think sun-bleached linens, gleaming brass, distressed wood, organic patterns, and textured jute. But it’s easy to go overboard—too many beachy elements, and suddenly, you’re living in a pirate-themed seafood restaurant. Whether you’re just finding your sea legs or are already onboard with this trend, we’ll steer you in the right direction with these 15 fresh finds (sorry, not sorry). And for more great ways to transform your space, check out these 25 Pieces of Rustic Farmhouse Décor That Will Completely Change Your Home.
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1 | This welcoming doormat
Bed Bath & BeyondAhoy there! Welcome guests to your home or lake house with this distinctive doormat featuring six maritime flags. Made of natural coir, this mat absorbs moisture, maintains its shape, and won’t skid or slide. And for more great ways to transform the area underfoot, check out these 15 Target Rugs That Will Tie the Room Together.
2 | This sea-inspired silk pillow
NordstromThis silk pillow from Treasure & Bond subtly invokes the soft hues of sea glass. Use it in your bedroom or living room to complement other coastal elements like driftwood, canvas, and seashells. Looking for other ways to make your space homey? Start with these 15 Hygge Accessories That Will Make Your Home Warm and Cozy for Winter 2020.
3 | This white rattan light
Pier 1Create a soothing environment with this white rattan pendant lamp, which spreads pockets of warm, diffused light across your space. The star-shaped light fixture makes a splash in the entryway over a round jute rug or in a bedroom, where it can cast a subtle, sleep-inducing glow. And for more high-impact, low-cost ways to totally transform your space, check out these 50 Genius Ways to Redo Your Home in 2020.
4 | This capri blue candle
AnthropologieDesign tip: for a nautical color palate, pair muted neutrals, like off-white or sand, with vibrant ocean-inspired blue. This Capri Blue Confetti Glass candle perfectly captures this timeless pairing and its coastal scent features notes of sparkling lemon, bergamot, and grapefruit.
5 | This adorable shower curtain
Bed Bath & BeyondReminiscent of Katsushika Hokusai’s iconic The Great Wave Off Kanagawa, this playful shower curtain is ideal for instantly upgrading your bathroom with some nautical flair. Pair it with blue glass bottles, a circular brass mirror, and striped navy-and-white bath towels for a cohesive look.
6 | This cabana-striped jute rug
TargetAlthough Joanna Gaines' home and lifestyle brand Hearth & Hand with Magnolia is more commonly associated with farmhouse décor, we think their hand-woven striped jute rug complements nautical décor equally well. Crafted from 100 percent jute material and backing, it looks smart in any entryway or living room. And for more great buys from your favorite A-listers, check out these 17 Celeb-Branded Homeware Items That Are Actually Amazing.
7 | This cuttlefish throw pillow
WayfairIf your version of nautical décor is a bit more whimsical, this cuttlefish throw pillow is perfect for you. Measuring 20” by 20” and featuring a hand-painted depiction of the mysterious eight-limbed octopus, this pillow adds a quirky and slightly edgy look to a nautical-themed den.
8 | This vintage knot wall art
Bed Bath & BeyondOne innovative feature of nautical design is how it juxtaposes crisp modern elements with vintage objects like anchors, captain’s wheels, and antique navigational tools. Honor maritime history with this canvas, which features thirty-two knots used for centuries by sailors.
9 | This coastal fringe basket
Macy'sFor the seafaring traveller, this coastal fringe basket made of natural woven sea grass is a perfect addition to your nautical home. Use it to store beach essentials: swimsuits, towels, sunglasses, and your favorite beach read by the front door.
10 | This glass and rope table lamp
Pier 1Evocative of a repurposed buoy, this pale turquoise glass-and-rope table lamp is attractive and charming. The round sea glass-inspired base offers a splash of color, while the rope netting is a nod to coastal style without venturing into kitschy territory.
11 | This coastal laundry hamper
WayfairWho says the nautical trend has to be limited to bathrooms, bedrooms, and living rooms? Let this seafaring theme infuse all of the spaces in your house, including the laundry room. This coastal rolling hamper, featuring an antiqued bronze finish and a removable and washable cotton liner, is equal parts functional and sleek.
12 | This personalized anchor sign
EtsyWhether you’ve got a beach house or a beach-inspired home, this personalized sign will let you know you’ve truly arrived. Choose a size (ranging from 12 to 30 inches), a color (black, silver, or red), and then customize it with your family’s name. Anchors away!
13 | This framed nautical map
EtsyShowcasing a waterway’s shoreline and seafloor, framed nautical charts are a great way to add vintage character to your home. Choose a map with personal significance, whether it's the lake where you used to swim as a kid or a tropical island you’ve always wanted to travel to.
14 | This navy area rug
WayfairThis indoor/outdoor rug is a great example of an understated approach to nautical décor—the abstract design features schools of fish in soft white and dark navy. Use this durable rug on a patio or sun porch paired with wicker chairs for a sophisticated coastal look.
15 | These chevron curtains
TargetNautical-inspired décor doesn’t necessarily mean putting seashells on everything. We like imagining these versatile navy chevron curtains paired with subtle ocean-inspired elements, like weathered shiplap or a vintage rowing oar.
