Picture this: a Nancy's Meyers movie. That's it—that's the 'coastal grandmother aesthetic' and while the term 'coastal' might lead you to believe that it's exclusively a summer trend—we're delighted to tell you that sea-side granny vibes are very much here to stay this Autumn/Winter season. So here's everything you need to know about building your perfect transitional, coast-inspired capsule wardrobe.
If you're new to the coastal grandmother side of TikTok, the latest trending hashtag pays homage to the queen of rom-coms and embraces the carefree, chic vibe that the filmmakers' protagonists embody, from Erica Barry to Amanda Woods. Needless to say, ivory turtlenecks abound.
In between TikTok beauty hacks and questionable challenges, influencer Lex Nicoleta (@lexnicoleta) coined the new movement, and it just screams Diane Keaton. Obviously, that means we're all on very much board.
@lexnicoleta ♬ original sound - Lex Nicoleta
Don't worry, to achieve the trend you don't have to be an actual grandma, nor own a dreamy seaside abode. It's all about the neutral, rustic shades, flattering but flowy shapes and basically looking like you spend your afternoons reading books and drinking wine on a sandy beach.
So if that sounds like a lifestyle you want to embody, here's everything you need to know about the new craze—from staple pieces you need to recreate the look, to the films that inspired the trend...
What is the coastal grandmother aesthetic?
Light, airy, relaxed—coastal grandmother is not just a style, it's a way of being. It's a low-key day on the couch, book at hand and tea Pinot Grigio nearby on the counter. It's a beach picnic with all of your favorite farmers' market goodies. Essentially, it's Something's Gotta Give.
In terms of style, it means classic and elegant, yet not overly fancy. In terms of interiors, there's a hygge home decor vibe coupled with open floor concepts, immaculate furniture and a kitchen well-stocked with white wine. (Do we sense an impending wine hangover?)
Again, we don't want to point fingers, but Diane Keaton is pretty much the CG icon.
Where to shop for the coastal grandmother aesthetic:
Where to shop in the US
- ZARA: For all your knit and trouser needs (especially if you're on a budget)
- Aritzia: Perfect for basics, flattering T-shirts and loungewear
- Reformation: Ideal for linen dresses
- Gap: For light button-ups and classic denim pieces
- Uniqlo: One of the best places to find basic t-shirts and pants in pastel colors
Where to shop in the UK
- H&M: Offers best-selling linen trousers and loose, suit-style trousers
- Pull&Bear: Ideal for basics and is famous for their surfer-girl vibes
- NA-KD: Go-to place for knitwear, from chunky winter pieces to scandi-style stripes
- &Other Stories: A great place for knitwear and simple accessories
- Cos: Chic jackets and scarves
Coastal grandmother aesthetic outfits:
Coastal grandmother basics for spring
Coastal grandmother basics for summer
Think button-downs, neutral shades, bucket hats and lots of linen—all great additions ideal for your Summer wardrobe but are also basic, versatile pieces that work for all seasons.
Coastal grandmother basics for fall
Something that we just adore about this trend is how easily you can change it up for the colder months. You can keep all your summer coastal pieces and simply layer them with some chunky knits and canvas jackets before pulling on some cozy grey marl socks.
@lexnicoleta ♬ original sound - Lex | Coastal Grandmother
This is probably one of the most cost-effective and timeless clothing trends we've ever seen, as all the pieces are interchangeable. Whether you're pairing a linen dress with a heavy knit jumper, or a pair of smart pants with a white tank-top, the 'coastal grandmother aesthetic' equals the ultimate wardrobe for any minimalist!
Coastal grandmother basics for Winter
Coastal grandmother kitchenware
*Sips Pinot Grigio* If you're looking to take this aesthetic to the next level, you can also incorporate it into your home decor...
@lexnicoleta ♬ This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) - Natalie Cole
Coastal grandmother movie picks
Spending a night in? What better way to embrace the coastal granny life than with a glass of wine and snuggling up to watch some of the best romantic comedies on Netflix will do the trick!
Here are some of our top movie picks:
- Something's Gotta Give
- It's Complicated
- Parent Trap (Elizabeth James' outfits are elite)
- Home Again
- Because I said so
- Mamma Mia (it's not Nancy Myers but it's got all that beachy goodness and ABBA!)
@lexnicoleta ♬ original sound - Lex Nicoleta
Speaking of Netflix, Deadline just reported that Nancy Meyers is set to write, direct and produce a new feature film for the platform, which means plenty of CG content is coming our way. The film is untitled, the plot details are scarce and we don't know who's starring in it, but we have a feeling that it'll bring a familiar vibe.
While you're gearing up for her next big film—we'll provide the details as soon as they're available—Lexi will keep you busy with a CG playlist that's reminiscent of our favorite CG movies' soundtracks.
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