This post will teach you how to achieve the Coastal Grandma aesthetic, with coastal grandma style clothing, outfit ideas, and style tips.
If you’re on social media, you know how viral trends come and go. But a “viral” trend that has staying power? That would be the Coastal Grandma aesthetic.
Though this aesthetic is a current “trend,” it doesn’t involve trendy clothing — which is a good thing! This look involves classic, classy items that are indeed inspired by grandmothers but ones with style (of course).
Creator Lex Nicoleta coined the term “Coastal Grandmother” last year, and it’s been a hit ever since. I mean, who wouldn’t want to channel Meryl Streep or Diane Keaton in a Nancy Meyers movie when getting dressed?
The Coastal Grandma really thrives during the summertime: activities like boating, tending to the garden, strolling along the beach… these are the vibes we are dressing for with this aesthetic.
So, if you’re ready to embrace the Coastal Grandmother aesthetic (or just curious to find out more about it), read on for the trend breakdown, along with the cutest, affordable Coastal Grandma outfits and Coastal Granda style clothing to try out this summer.
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Key Elements of Coastal Grandma Style
- Neutrals, neutrals, neutrals! This aesthetic is all about neutrals and soft colors, so stay away from anything super bright or vibrant (that goes for patterns and prints, too). Instead, opt for beige, light gray, light blue, and shades of white and cream.
- Classic clothing pieces are key. Avoid trendy clothing and instead invest in timeless items like button-down shirts, trouser pants, cable knit sweaters, trench coats, and other pieces that stand the test of time. Avoid bold prints and opt for classic stripes instead.
- Go for comfortable, oversized, and/or loose-fitting clothing. This aesthetic favors pieces like oversized sweaters, flowy pants and trousers, and loose button-down shirts. Stay away from tight pants or dresses, ultra-cropped tops, and super mini skirts — this is a “Grandma”-“-inspired aesthetic, after all.
- Natural fabrics are what add to the “coastal” element of this aesthetic; materials like linen and cotton have a breezy vibe that feels relaxed, making them the perfect basis for your Coastal Grandma outfits. Materials like raffia and straw are also natural and add a beachy touch.
Styling Tips for Coastal Granma Style
- Play with different textures for a stylish look. For example, pair a chunky knit sweater with some lightweight linen pants, or wear a cotton dress with a straw or rattan handbag for contrast.
- Layer knitwear over your outfits for a sophisticated vibe. A cardigan sweater wrapped loosely around your shoulders adds an instant touch of effortless sophistication and is Coastal Grandma-approved.
- Avoid trendy accessories. Opt for simple yet classic pieces to enhance your outfits without taking away from them.
Coastal Grandma Outfit Ideas and Clothing
Neutral and Soft Color Palettes
The Coastal Grandma prefers a soft, neutral color palette that is calming and beachy, paired with relaxed fits.
These neutral wide-leg pants with a comfortable drawstring waist are perfect for strolls along the shore (or just hanging out) and are made from a lightweight, natural fabric that is in line with the Coastal Grandma aesthetic.
Wear them with an equally lightweight and loose-fitting boat neck sweater in a similar cream color — this one features a mohair blend material with a boat neck that adds to its appeal.
Comfort is key for the Coastal Grandma aesthetic, so skip the uncomfortable heels or sandals and opt for some bone leather double-strap footbed sandals with buckle details.
Enhance the ensemble with beachy (yet minimal) accessories like some small gold shell stud earrings, a baroque pearl bracelet, and a canvas tote bag with a cute seashell graphic print.
Beige Striped Sweater
Creams, beiges, whites, and off-whites are mainstays in a Coastal Grandmother’s wardrobe, and this lightweight pullover sweater is a perfect example of the aesthetic’s color palette.
With a relaxed fit and linked seams, this knit can be worn alone or over a white button-down shirt.
Timeless and Classic Pieces
You can never go wrong with timeless and classic clothing pieces, especially for the Coastal Grandffma aesthetic.
Start with a striped button-down shirt with neutral hues, like this affordable linen option that has an oversized fit. Tuck it into some beige linen-blend shorts, and break up the neutrals with a classic brown leather belt.
Accessories are a great way to infuse your outfit with a coastal feel, and these gold shell earrings with pearls will do just the trick, along with a summery straw basket bag. This one has woven brown leather handles that tie into the brown leather belt for a cohesive look. A pair of raffia slide sandals with a footbed will keep you comfortable while adding another beachy touch.
White Button Down Shirt
I probably don’t need to convince you on why everyone should have a classic white button-down shirt in their wardrobe, but if I did, I would start off by saying that it’s one of the most timeless clothing items anyone could own.
The Coastal Grandmother knows this all too well, and often styles looks around this must-have — especially a 100% cotton shirt, like the one above.
Nautical Vibes
Doesn’t this outfit make you want to take a beach stroll or explore a cute coastal town?
This cozy knit hoodie has major nautical vibes thanks to its blue and white stripes and relaxed fit. It has an airy, medium-gauge knit construction that makes it ideal for a breezy summer evening.
Wear it with some white linen shorts that have a flowy, relaxed fit and a comfortable drawstring waistband. This straw tote bag is beyond adorable, with a blue and white striped interior (another nautical touch), white leather handles, and a customizable monogram. Use it as your handbag, bring it to the beach, or take it on a boat — its quite versatile no matter what summer activities are on your agenda.
Some beachy raffia slide sandals with a short flatform heel and blue clover earrings complete the ensemble.
Blue & White Striped Linen Midi Dress
This blue and white striped midi dress is giving total coastal chic, with its nautical-inspired stripes and natural linen blend fabric.
Wear this frock on a hot day — its breezy design and lightweight material is going to help you stay cool while looking polished. Be sure to accessorize with a straw or woven bag, sunglasses with a classic shape, and cute sandals.
Comfortable & Loose-Fitting Clothing
Products: Sweater, Pants, Sunglasses, Bag, Phone Case, Clogs
As a Coastal Grandma, you should look like you’re ready to hop on a boat or take a beachside stroll at any given moment — and this outfit fits the bill.
These loose-fitting blue and white striped pants are not only incredibly on-trend this season, but have a relaxed, nautical look that is perfect for this aesthetic. Wear them with a slouchy knit, like this navy blue American flag sweater that you could always throw on over a tank top.
Some suede clogs with a footbed are a comfy shoe choice that reflects the easy-going nature of the Coastal Grandma. Bring the outfit together with some oval metal sunglasses, a classic canvas tote bag (it doesn’t get more classic than L.L. Bean’s heavyweight canvas tote bag), and this adorable phone case with beach-inspired graphics.
Knit Turtleneck & Joggers Set
Neutral hue? Check. Natural cotton fabrication? Check. Cozy and comfortable oversized fit? Check and check!
This beige knit turtleneck and jogger pants set is Coastal Grandmother to a T.
Though this set has a slouchy, loose fit, it still looks polished thanks to its neutral color, natural fabric, and knit material. Plus, turtlenecks are a Coastal Grandma favorite; see Diane Keaton in “Something’s Gotta Give” for reference.
Effortlessly Elegant
Though the Coastal Grandma aesthetic often features oversized and comfortable clothing, that doesn’t translate to sloppy. There is an element of elegance in Coastal Grandma outfits, and it can still include feminine pieces like dresses and skirts.
The key is to choose frocks with a classic silhouette, like this blue puff sleeve midi dress with a tiered skirt and square neckline. Its cotton poplin material adds to its breezy, summery look.
Wear it with a heart locket necklace and straw accessories, like some buckled raffia slide sandals and a woven basket bag.
For the full Coastal Grandma effect, toss a light-colored cardigan over your shoulders.
Blue & White Striped Tiered Midi Skirt
Another classic piece, this blue and white striped tiered midi skirt would fit right in at a coastal location. Its silhouette is timeless while still having a feminine charm, and the blue and white stripes add a nautical touch.
What do you think of our guide to Coastal Grandma style clothing?
Would you wear the Coastal Grandma aesthetic? Which Coastal Grandma outfit is your favorite? Leave a comment and let us know!