How to Wear Coastal Grandmother Style
Have you ever craved that coastal vibe, even though you live miles from the beach? Let's chat about a trend I adore: the Coastal Grandmother look.
Don't be fooled by the name—it's all about breezy elegance and comfort. This look is effortlessly chic whether in the city, your backyard, or beachside.
In this post, we’ll explain the Coastal Grandmother style, its elements, and how to wear it, along with some celebs who embrace this style trend.
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What is the Coastal Grandmother STYLE?
Don't let the name deceive you; this trend isn't solely for grandmothers living by the coast.
It's a universally flattering style that epitomizes casual, comfortable clothing tailored for a laid-back, coastal lifestyle. Think soft linens, breathable cotton, flowy dresses, and hues reminiscent of the seaside. The Coastal Grandmother style exudes an aura of timeless elegance and relaxation.
Celebrities Embracing the Trend
Stars like Diane Keaton, celebrated for her portrayal in "Something's Gotta Give," are pioneers of this look. Other noteworthy mentions include Helen Mirren, Martha Stewart, and Meryl Streep, particularly in her role in "Mamma Mia" and the ever-inspiring Oprah Winfrey. You’ll see their style examples throughout this post.
Who can wear Coastal Grandmother Style?
Do you need to be a grandmother or an older person to wear the coastal grandmother look? No! This relaxed, casual style is for women of any age (no grandchildren required!).
If you’re looking for a style that looks like you’ve spent the day gathering wildflowers, painting by the sea, or walking along the beach, this style is for you!
The Essence of the Coastal Grandmother Look
The Coastal Grandmother style is more than just a fashion statement; it reflects a lifestyle that cherishes simplicity, comfort and an innate connection to nature.
Embodying Nature's Palette
What's immediately noticeable about this look is its color palette, which seamlessly mirrors the serene environment of a coastal setting. Imagine the gradient of a sunset over the ocean – the soft ocean blues symbolizing the vast sea, seafoam greens reflecting the gentle waves at the shore, muted pinks and yellows capturing the hues of a setting sun, and the natural tones of tans, beiges, and crisp whites that evoke the endless stretches of sandy beaches.
Each color in this style isn't just a fashion choice; it's a tribute to nature's artistry.
Elegance in Simplicity
One of the standout qualities of the Coastal Grandmother style is its understated elegance. While other fashion trends might lean heavily on bold patterns or striking combinations, this look finds its strength in subtlety. It doesn't shout for attention; instead, it quietly captures it, reminding onlookers of the soothing lullabies of ocean waves and the gentle rustling of palm trees.
An Ode to Natural Fibers
A significant aspect of this trend is its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly choices. Natural fiber accessories, particularly those made of wicker or straw, enhance the look and echo the theme of being in harmony with nature. A wicker bag or a straw beach hat isn't just a fashionable accessory; it's a testament to artisanal craftsmanship and sustainable choices. Often handcrafted, these accessories carry stories of traditions, making the style deeply rooted in authenticity.
Beyond Fashion: A Lifestyle Choice
The Coastal Grandmother's look transcends beyond just clothing. It embodies a life that values moments of tranquility, close ties with nature, and a sense of timelessness. Wearing this style is akin to wrapping oneself in memories of beach vacations, sunlit afternoons, and the comforting embrace of a gentle sea breeze.
The Coastal Grandmother style isn't just about looking good; it's about feeling deeply connected to the world around us, reminding us of nature's simple pleasures and timeless beauty.
5 Essential Tips for Perfecting the Coastal Grandmother Look
The Coastal Grandmother style isn't just about assembling specific pieces but understanding the essence and philosophy behind the trend. Let's delve deeper into the five essential tips to perfect and embody this timeless look truly:
Prioritize Comfort Over Everything
Fabric Choices: When aiming for comfort, material becomes paramount. Opting for cotton offers breathability, making it ideal for warmer climes. With its natural cooling effect and ability to wick away moisture, Linen offers a laid-back elegance that's hard to resist. Jersey knits add an element of stretch and coziness that drapes the body beautifully.
Feel-Good Fashion: The Coastal Grandmother style emphasizes feeling good in what you wear, ensuring that beauty doesn't come at the expense of comfort.
The Art of Relaxed Elegance
Flows and Drapes: Think of garments that sway with the breeze — flowy dresses and loose tops that allow freedom of movement, echoing the unrestricted spirit of the coast.
Pants with Purpose: Relaxed-fit pants are a cornerstone. Whether they're billowing wide-leg trousers or casual drawstring pants, they epitomize the relaxed beachside vibe.
Color Palette: Nature’s Symphony
Nature's Inspiration: Drawing directly from coastal vistas, muted shades of sands, skies, and seas dominate. However, the style welcomes occasional vibrant hues like sunny yellow (reminiscent of a bright morning sun), ocean blue (the deep vastness of the sea), and seafoam green (the gentle waves caressing the shores).
Layering with Color: While the base palette remains neutral, layering with pops of these vibrant colors can add depth and interest to the outfit.
Embrace Nature with Accessories
Seaside Treasures: Accessories like seashells and mother-of-pearl jewelry are not mere adornments but tactile memories of the sea. They evoke images of beachcombing and the simple joys of discovering nature's wonders.
Craftsmanship and Sustainability: Hand-woven straw and wicker bags are trendy and eco-friendly. They showcase artisanal skills while promoting sustainable fashion.
Timeless Classics: A Wardrobe's Cornerstone
Investment Pieces: Classic items like denim jackets and white sneakers are versatile and enduring. They can be mixed and matched across seasons and trends, ensuring longevity in your wardrobe.
Simplicity is Key: Simple garments like cotton tees are unassuming yet pivotal. They serve as a blank canvas, allowing other elements of the Coastal Grandmother style to shine, be it a statement accessory or a bold color layer.
To truly master the Coastal Grandmother look, one must approach it as more than just a fashion statement; it reflects a lifestyle and an attitude that values nature, comfort, and timeless elegance.
Coastal Grandmother Outfit Inspirations
Brands across various price points have embraced this trend:
Eileen Fisher: Offers linen and other natural fiber pieces you can layer and mix for years.
Vince: Showcases elegant coastal grandmother pieces that are timeless.
Lilly Pulitzer: Features bright, sun-washed, flowy linen pieces.
Anthropologie: Creates relaxed-fit dresses, sweaters, tops, and other relaxed separates.
J.Jill: Plays with natural shades like sage green and earthy blues.
Target: Offers floral print dresses, relaxed fits, and stunning natural accessories.
Amazon: Houses tiered dresses, linen tops, cozy sweaters, and other pieces to round out your coastal wardrobe.
So, as the weather warms and the waves call, are you ready to embrace the Coastal Grandmother look? Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the trend, we'd love your thoughts! Dive into this style and enjoy the breezy beauty it brings.
