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.
Coastal grandmother fashion staples | Meet our experts | How we chose
Shop TODAY Snapshot: Best coastal grandmother fashion finds
- Expert-approved top: Everlane Organic Cotton Tee, $30
- Expert-approved accessory: The Hat Depot Bucket Hat, $13.99
- Editor-approved top: Uniqlo Linen-Blend Shirt, $29.90
- Editor-approved bottoms: L.L. Bean x Summersalt Cloud Gauze Pants, $69.95
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
Amazon Essentials Long-Sleeve Button-Down Poplin Shirt
- Lightweight fabric
- Multiple colorways
- Some say it shrinks; hang dry
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.
LNX High-Waisted Linen Pants
- Lightweight fabric
- Stretchy waistband
- Some say runs large
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.
Old Navy High-Waisted Light-Wash Straight-Leg Jeans
- Stretchy material
- Inclusive sizing
- Machine was inside out
These Old Navy jeans have more than 24,000 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.
Aphoraeny Straw Tote
- Has a snap closure
- Has interior pocket
- Thin strap
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.
Uniqlo Linen Blend Open Collar Short-Sleeve Shirt
- Lightweight fabric
- Can wear as outerwear or alone
- Oversized fit
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.
Furtalk Wide Brim Sun Hat
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Foldable and easy to pack
- Some say it lacks ventilation
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.
Old Navy High-Waisted Cropped Wide-Leg Chino Pants for Women
- Made with 2% spandex; stretchy
- Inclusive sizing
- Machine wash cold
With a straight, high-rise waistband, workwear patch pockets and a cotton-canvas material, these pants embody the cool, yet elevated style that defines the trend.
J.Crew Capitaine Linen Shirt Dress
- Three height options
- Reviewers say it's flattering
- Some say runs big
Whether you're heading to a garden party or hosting a backyard wine night, this shirt dress is the perfect pick. According to the brand, this is a bestselling style that is made of 100% breathable linen fabric.
The Hat Depot Bucket Hat
- Comes in over 40 colors
- Some say to size down
Stein recommends this bucket hat from Amazon. Since the style is having a moment, you'll be checking off multiple trends at once!
Everlane The Organic Cotton Box-Cut Tee
- High-quality fabric
- Can shrink, avoid dryer
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.
L.L. Bean x Summersalt The Cloud Gauze Wide-Leg Pants
- High-quality and soft fabric
- Some say the pants are long
Shop TODAY editors recently 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.
Naadam The Original Cashmere Sweater
- Over 30 colorways
- 100% soft cashmere
- Should dry clean
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."
Eileen Fisher Fine Jersey Mock Neck Tank
- Made with 4% spandex; stretchy
- High-quality fabric
- Wash cold to avoid shrinkage
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.
Theory Short-Sleeve Sweater in Regal Wool
- Moisture-wicking fabric
- Hand wash only
Brown says that Theory is another brand that creates staples that fit the trend. This refined tee from the company instantly caught our eye. The wool material is designed to be moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating, plus the short sleeves make it perfect for the upcoming season.
Oliver Logan Aberdeen Wide Leg Crop
- "Buttery soft," says reviewers
- Flattering, says reviewers
- Limited sizing in some colors
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
- 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.
