When I first heard the term "coastal grandmother," I had no idea what it was — but I immediately knew that it sounded like a trend that I could get behind.
The phrase brings to mind images of relaxing days spent lounging on a chaise, crisp linen outfits and houses with expansive farmhouse-style kitchens. And, essentially, that's what it is, according to TikTokers. And it's clear from the videos that you don't have to be an actual grandmother to be a coastal one — it's for everyone.
For those not lucky enough to live in a beach house with a big garden, you can still capture the spirit of the aesthetic by simply dressing for the role. "I would describe it as very neutral, classic staples in light shades ... it's very crisp, very clean," says New York City-based personal stylist Samantha Brown. "It's sort of like a nod to this timeless, moneyed — but not flashy — coastal grandma."
Brown says that while the "coastal grandmother" aesthetic may appeal to a slightly older generation, it's also great for those who have become accustomed to the cozy and fuss-free outfits that made up the majority of our wardrobes over the last couple of years, but still want to look put-together. "It's a step above wearing leggings and a sweater, but it's still very, very easy," Brown says. "It almost comes back to that capsule wardrobe feeling, like really nice basics in neutral colors that can be easily interchanged with each other."
According to personal stylist Christina Stein, to nail the trend, you want to stick to earthy tones, like blues, greens, creams, white, beige and light pinks. Essential pieces include cotton long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, cargo pants and hats. Brown adds that things like white button-downs, jeans (but not the skinny versions), casual trousers and high-quality tees are other staples.
Here, the stylists shared some of the ways to wear the trend, and we added a couple of our favorite options as well.
Coastal grandmother fashion staples
Button-downs are a staple of the trend, and this popular option from Amazon comes in a few colors that fit the aesthetic, but you can't go wrong with the white shade. According to the brand, it's made from a soft, durable material that provides a lived-in feel right away.
Easy, breezy basics make up the majority of a coastal grandmother's wardrobe, so these linen pants seem like a great option. "These are perfect for lounging or can be dressed up and worn shopping or to brunch," one reviewer said.
These Old Navy jeans have more nearly 40,000 five-star reviews from shoppers who say they are soft and comfortable. "Perfect fit, perfect length, perfect weight, perfect shade, perfect stretch!" one reviewer wrote.
You can use this bag to tote your favorite book to the beach or stash your farmer's market purchases until you get home. It has a snap magnetic closure and an inner zippered pocket, to help you keep your most treasured items safe.
Associate editor Shannon Garlin says this is her favorite everyday bag for summer. "I carry this bag around everywhere, from park days to simple errands. It fits so much and the fabric is really sturdy," says Garlin.
When you want that classic button-down look but it's too hot for long sleeves, opt for this short-sleeved shirt from Uniqlo. It's made from a linen-blend material, and one reviewer called it "so soft and breathable."
"I have this shirt in black and I loved it so much that I recently bought it in white. It has an oversized fit, which makes me feel super chic when paired with some jean shorts or wide-leg pants," says Garlin.
Editor’s note: This item is currently out of stock but we found another product that we’d think you like below.
If you're spending a lot of time on the coast (or at least want to look like you are), you're going to need a hat. Perfect for gardening or lounging by the pool, this hat is designed to provide UPF 50+ protection and is foldable to fit easily in your bag.
Stein recommends this bucket hat from Amazon. Since the style is having a moment, you'll be checking off multiple trends at once!
Stein likes this cotton tee, and we love how it feels like a classic and easy-to-style piece that anyone could benefit from having in their closet. The white shade is a must-have no matter what's trending (hello, vanilla girl), but the Clay and Iced Coffee options also seem to fit the vibe – and they fit.
Shop TODAY editors got to check out the L.L. Bean and Summersalt collaboration, and they raved about the cover-ups, especially the wide-leg pants.
"I love how they have some weight to them but are still lightweight and good for those hot days by the pool. They do run a little long but with a wedge sandal, they would make for a very cute look," says editor Vivien Moon.
Picture this: You're cuddled up with a book in your beach house, sipping tea and wearing an ultra-cozy cashmere sweater. Sounds picturesque, right? While most of us don't have access to a beach house, you'll be halfway to fulfilling that fantasy with Naadam's Cashmere Sweater, which Stein recommends for the trend. For under $100, the bestseller is more affordable than other options on the market, but it doesn't sacrifice on quality — according to the brand, it's "heavenly soft."
Brown says that Eileen Fisher is one place where you can find "coastal grandmother"-esque luxurious basics. And we love how chic the oversized sleeves are on this simple tee.
Stein also recommends these pants from Oliver Logan. Made from sustainable materials, the brand says that they have a comfortable amount of stretch and a high-waisted fit that hugs your backside and thighs before flaring at the knee.
Meet the experts
At Shop TODAY, our reporters interview a range of qualified sources and experts to capture a wide scope of perspectives on a given topic. We also make sure that all expert guidance and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
- Samantha Brown is a New York City-based personal and celebrity stylist.
- Christina Stein is a stylist and founder of Style By Christina.
How we chose
We selected these products based on insights and recommendations from professional stylists and approved picks from Shop TODAY editors and staffers. Other options were sourced through verified shopper reviews and brand reputation.
