ICYMI the Gen Zers are once again showing us all how to live our best lives on Tik Tok, a la “Coastal Grandmother”. If you’re asking yourself, “what is she talking about?”, keep reading. Since March the “Coastal Grandmother” trend has been blowing up the platform with originator Lex Nicoleta’s video reaching over 1 billion views (no that’s not a typo, I said 1 Billion). It’s the latest fashion trend leaning into the collective need for comfort and escapism that has been ruling fashion trends since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020. Over the last few years “fantasy” has been a major theme in fashion—think cottagecore of 2020-2021. Puff sleeves, full skirts and fantastic floral patterns still have us all cooing whether we’re actually wearing them or not. But “Coastal Grandmother”, now this is something we can all get behind.
Who are the icons of this trend? Think Oprah at her estate in soft-to-the-touch cashmere sweaters and wide-leg linen pants while riding her bike. If you’re a Nancy Myers fan, Diane Keaton as Erica Barry in Something’s Gotta Give might paint a clearer picture for you. While we all can’t be wealthy women living in coastal mansions drinking Ina Garten size cocktails, if we’ve learned anything from surviving a pandemic, it’s that rest, relaxation and luxuriating is something we all deserve. So no, you don’t have to have a home on the coast or even be a grandmother to exude “Coastal Grandmother” vibes.
According to Lex Nicoleta, if you love “ Nancy Myers movies, coastal vibes, recipes and cooking, Ina Garten, cozy interiors—there’s a good chance you might be a coastal grandmother.” Does this description sound like you? Then check out our summer recs for achieving coastal grandmother vibes. Chances are you might even own a lot of these pieces already!
Light Colors & Airy Fabrics
The first step to achieving this look is channeling coastal energy. Imagine a Cape Cod beach house or a Martha’s Vineyard bed and breakfast. Light airy colors are the staple of this aesthetic with every shade of white and tan up for grabs. Natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and Oprah’s favorite, cashmere only add to the luxury. You can recreate the look and feel of these fabrics with alternatives like heavy brushed knits, tencel and rayon which are derived from natural fibers.
Knit Pants & Straight Leg Denim
Ultimate comfort is the Coastal Grandmother’s goal. Knit pants are made for leisurely days that go from coffee on the veranda to cocktails on the patio and everything in between.
Soft Knit Cardigans
Nothing beats the warm cozy feeling of a soft cardigan in the Coastal Grandmother wardrobe. The breeze coming off of the ocean is no match for these brushed knits and airy ribbed sweater sets. It’s the quintessential layering piece of the look.
Button-Down Shirts & Tunics
Think of the Coastal Grandmother style as being unapologetically versatile. It’s the kind of top you wear while visiting the farmers market and while hosting your friends for a meal made of all of your lovely finds from the shopping day. Be careful not to forget the white wine. What would a Coastal Grandmother be without her wine?
Beach-Inspired Accessories
Think of the Coastal Grandmother style as being unapologetically versatile. It’s the kind of top you wear while visiting the farmers market and while hosting your friends for a meal made of all of your lovely finds from the shopping day. Be careful not to forget the white wine. What would a Coastal Grandmother be without her wine?
We want to see you living your best “Coastal Grandmother” life! Tag us on IG and Tik Tok @diaandco and show us your style.
