You can always count on TV shows and movies to inspire the next fashion trend, especially on TikTok (Bridgerton-worthy Regencycore, anyone?) and well, the latest aesthetic is one we can all embrace this summer. Yep, get your white button-up shirt and your linen pants ready–it’s time to channel your inner “Coastal Grandmother.”
Despite what the name implies, this look does not require you to live by a coast, nor does it mean you have to be an actual grandma. Coined by influencer Lex Nicoleta, the term “Coastal Grandmother” refers to that laid-back, breezy, beachy vibe you see in many a Nancy Meyers movie. Think neutral colors, blue and white combos, natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and straw, and living-your-best-life staples like caftans, cozy knits, woven sun hats, and straight-leg jeans.
Basically, if Oprah would wear it at one of her multiple seaside homes, Martha Stewart would wear it to the farmer’s market, or it looks like something from the wardrobe department of It’s Complicated or Something’s Gotta Give, you’re on the right track. *Sips a white wine spritzer.*
So why is social media all of a sudden obsessed with looking like a rich retiree? Um, why the heck not? “Coastal Grandmother” is an escapist vibe to be sure; it’s a way to transport yourself to a luxurious lifestyle where you spend your days tending to your garden at the beach house, wearing a bucket hat and a luxe cardigan. Incidentally, and perhaps unsurprisingly, the aesthetic is also trending hard in home decor.
So if you fantasize about living in Grace and Frankie’s beach house (raises hand) but your budget isn’t exactly aligned, never fear. Ahead, shop nine affordable luxury picks that will have you looking and feeling like the coastal grandma you were born to be this summer.
A white button-up shirt is a “Coastal Grandmother” essential. This one’s made of 100% cotton and can be worn as a beach cover-up or layered over a crop top for a more, er, coastal granddaughter vibe.
A long, open-knit cardigan is ideal for cool summer nights. Pair it with a classic tee and distressed denim and you’ve got the ultimate coastal cozy outfit.
What seaside outfit is complete without a woven tote? Use it to carry your farmer’s market haul, take it to the beach, or just complete your laid-back vacation look!
Two things a “Coastal Grandmother” loves? Beachy stripes and blue and white everything. This lightweight woven rayon shirt dress with a tie waist checks both boxes and is as effortless as it gets.
Sun Hat
Shop the Look: Island Energy White Straw Crochet Bucket Hat
A coastal grandma is never without sun protection, so a chic hat for gardening, sipping wine, or beach walks is a must. This bucket hat in woven straw is peakErica Barry.
The key to “Coastal Grandmother” outfits is sticking to relaxed, classic styles. Easy-breezy jeans with roomy pant legs and a distressed, sun-washed look are chic enough for dinner and laid-back enough for a stroll on the beach.
Coastal grandmas are essentially living like they’re always on vacation, so a lightweight, gauzy caftan that can go from the beach to a midday book club gathering on the patio is a wardrobe staple. And, of course, stripes are always a good idea.
Wide-leg linen-cotton blend pants in a neutral hue are giving coastal grandma all day. Pair these with your go-to white top, and maybe a straw hat and espadrilles, and you’re good to go!
Comfort is key, but so is sophistication. Classic neutral flat espadrille sandals can go from the sand to the sidewalk effortlessly.
We want to see how you’re channeling your inner coastal grandmother! Show us on Instagram @lulus using #lovelulus–and shop more effortless summer essentials in our Coastal Grandmother Trend Shop!