How to Put Together a Coastal Grandma Look

I'm not one to jump on TikTok trends, but this one really caught my attention. In case you haven't noticed, Coastal Grandma style is currently circulating all over the Internet thanks to 26-year-old TikTok influencer Lex Nicoleta.


Now it's officially become "a thing" in fashion and interior design style. But what is the Coastal Grandma look? Think your wealthy grandmother with a house in the Hamptons or Malibu. Her home has a crisp, relaxed style known as Coastal, which features sun-bleached, over-stuffed white couches, sea glass and seashell tchotchkes and lots of baskets. Her fashion sense includes loose-fitting clothes that consist of wide-leg pants, t-shirts with oversized button-downs worn as a light cover-up and a sweater tied around her neck to ward off those chilly ocean breezes. She keeps a sun hat handy to protect her delicate spa-treated skin and wears casual, comfortable shoes or sandals while spending her days at farmer's markets and going for walks down the coastline.

Coastal Grandma is basically  Diane Keaton's character in the film "Something's Gotta Give." While this look is not something I would normally gravitate to, there's no question the comfort level and the aspirational feel of having a carefree summer day, even if you don't live anywhere near a beach.


Want to get in on this summertime trend? Here's how to put together a Coastal Grandma look.

Coastal Grandma Basics – Tank Top and Loose Fit Pants

To get the Coastal Grandma look, start with your base layers. In this case, something that will be cool that you can layer on top of to keep off those sunny UV rays and when those coastal breezes waft your way. A crisp cotton tank top or t-shirt in white or nautical blue and white stripes is a perfect choice. For the bottom, Coastal Grandmother's prefer loose fit over skinny slim fits. Our bods to change over time, ya know. So look for wide-leg pants, capris or gaucho-style pants, preferably in linen or cotton.  Shop nautical stripe tee.

Coastal Grandma Shoes – Comfortable and Practical

You won't find many grandmas wearing heels, so comfort and practicality are key when it comes to Coastal Grandma shoes. A pair of slip-on sneakers or summery slide sandals in neutral shades of white or tan are all you need to go from a walk on the boardwalk to sunset happy hour at your favorite seaside restaurant.  Shop shoes.

Coastal Grandma Cover-up – Oversized Button-Down Shirt or Duster

Living on the beach means being aware of how much sun you're getting. Coastal grandmothers need to protect their skin and get cold easily with those ocean breezes. A large button-down shirt worn as a light jacket works as a casual cover-up for most outfits. Most of my button-down shirts are slim fit so I had to borrow a larger size from my hubby. I have to say it felt quite comfy. My hubby may not get this one back!  Shop button-down shirt.

Coastal Grandma Hat – The Bucket Hat

No look on the beach would be complete without a sun hat. While a big floppy hat usually does the trick, it's not always practical. Coastal Grandmas reach for the easy-going bucket hat. It blocks the sun's glare and can easily fold up into your straw tote bag when the sun goes down.  Shop bucket hats.

Coastal Grandma Sweater – The Preppy Crew Neck

When you're out on the beach or taking in an afternoon on the yacht, it can get cold once the sun goes down. Coastal Grandmas know not to get caught-out and keep a trusty sweater tied around their neck preppy-style to put on and stay warm for coastal summer nights roasting s'mores over their backyard fire pit. Look for a classic crew neck or fisherman knit.  Shop sweaters.


Now that you know how to put together a Coastal Grandma look, will you try it?


See more of my styling on my blog   Stiletto City and   Instagram page.


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