This summer designers are resurrecting the nautical trend, that time-honored combination of navy, white and red that has anchored warm-weather collections since as far back as the 19th century.

Those who would roll their eyes, perhaps traumatized by chubby childhood portraits of themselves in sailor suits, take heart: This year's designers are doing nautical with a lot more brass — of the figurative sort.

Today's sailor girl borrows a page from her 1950s and '60s counterpart, sporting shapely button-front pants, pin-up worthy shorts, low-hipped bikinis and coy peep-toed espadrilles. However, a closer look not only reveals what's missing (folded caps, bobby socks and those dreaded square-back flaps) but what is improved upon.

Look for new, playful riffs on nautical motifs and innovative applications of up-to-date materials such as Lucite, denim, Swarovski crystals and patent leather.

GET THE LOOK

Here are tips for freshening up this theme for your summer wardrobe.

DO have fun with denim. From high-waisted shorts to railroad stripes and suspendered Capris, there's a multitude of playful styles to pair with nautical looks.

DO glam it up with patent leather, Lucite and crystal-embellished accessories.

DO get hip to this trend's freshest interpretations. Stars, stripes, grommets and military details are still in vogue, but the motifs of the moment are anchors and ropes. Look for anchor charms on bracelets and earrings, and ropy straps on jewelry, shoes and dresses.

DON’T go overboard! Wearing nautical motifs head to toe can look too costumey. Mix stripes, stars and anchors with coordinating solids to avoid looking washed up.

DON’T let the sun go down on your stars and stripes. Unless it’s the Fourth of July or you’re on a sunset cruise, this look is meant for day.

On Amy Coffee: Eric Javits red trim hat, Sandal Tree, $150; red plastic anchor earrings, Pineapple Country, $10.99; striped cami, Banana Republic, $18; navy high-waisted shorts, Diesel, $80; Mia anchor/rope bangle set, Pineapple Country, $14.99; navy pa

On Ipo Pharr: chiffon scarf (headband), Diesel, $40; gold/shell earrings, Banana Republic, $32; Golden Child chain with crystal starfish, Pineapple Country, $112.99; Cherry Koko tee with anchor belt, Pineapple Country, $28.99; strapless white stretch twill dress, Banana Republic, $128; red bangle, Banana Republic, $48; canvas anchor bag, Pineapple Country, $28; red/white stripe espadrille, Banana Republic, $68.