We never thought fashion influencers would tell us to look to our elders for style inspiration, but since the ladies they have in mind are as stylish as Diane Keaton, we may have to hear them out. The style aesthetic labeled “coastal grandma” is taking social media by storm, especially on TikTok. The aesthetic, popularized by Keaton’s character Erica Barry in Something’s Gotta Give, is en route to being this summer’s most popular trend.
(image via pinterest via house beautiful)
What Is Coastal Grandma?
Gracefully simple, the coastal grandma aesthetic is all about classic fashion. While the word “grandma” may throw you, this style is not about dressing “old”; it is about dressing timelessly. The look is about pieces that will stay trendy year after year, ones you could rework and wear a million times over.
Fabrics
There’s a harmony between comfort and style when it comes to the coastal grandma trend – it’s wearable around the house, while running errands, or even going out to dinner. You can replicate the look through the calculated pairings of thin linens, knits, and woven fabrics.
Linens
Durable, sustainable, and tastefully crisp, linen will always bring an air of leisure to any look. We are big fans of how versatile this fabric is: It can work as a coverup after a day at the beach or tucked into a pair of jeans for a more European feel.
Our Pick: Urban Outfitters Out From Under Beach Boardwalk Button-Down ($59, shop here)
Knits
You may associate knits with the cooler months, but this cozy-feeling fabric can add a layer of comfort to a basic summertime ensemble. For daytime, opt for a thin open-knit sweater, then switch to something heavier for those nights out on the pier.
Our Picks:
Zara Knit V-Neck Sweater ($69.90, shop here)
ASOS Mango Button Detail Sweater ($60, shop here)
Woven Fabrics
The term “woven” refers to multiple textiles, including denim. However, in this case, we’re talking about fabrics like chiffon, tweed, and corduroy. These fabrics have a splendor that makes them eye-catching in any outfit.
Our Picks:
Lulus Tweed Cropped Tank Top ($42, shop here)
Everlane The Corduroy Wide-Leg Pant ($88, shop here)
Accessories
Now that you know what fabrics to look for during your transformation to coastal grandma, here are some accessories that we think will add that perfect seaside touch to your look.
Sunglasses
Opt for glasses with a beachy feel. You can pick any neutral color, but we like the look of tortoiseshell to give an outfit a little more texture.
Our Pick: Ray-Ban RB4122 Sunnies in Havana ($70, shop here)
Scarves
Scarves in the summertime may sound counterproductive, but having one handy can add a pop of color to your look or be used as a headscarf to keep your locks tidy during those late-night drives along the coast.
Our Pick: Zara Silk Print Scarf ($45.90, shop here)
Mules
There is no form of shoe more timeless than the mule. Easy to slip on, versatile, and oh-so-chic, a pair of mules can bring you everywhere you need to go this summer in style.
Our Pick: Soludos Venetian Mule ($149, shop here)
Totes
Of course, the handbag of choice for someone constantly roaming the shore would have to be a classic take on a summer staple. Try to find one made with thicker material for quality’s sake.
Our Pick: Sedona Basket Bag in Straw ($69.50, shop here)
Will you be trying out the coastal grandma look this summer? Share your thoughts in the comments below!