Summer 2022 Trends: The “Coastal Grandma” Aesthetic
If you’ve scrolled through social media recently, you’ve probably spotted the term “coastal grandma” trending across platforms, with thousands of posts under the hashtag on TikTok and Instagram. That’s right: this summer, instead of embracing Y2K fashion, many are turning to their grandmother’s closet for style inspiration.
The term “coastal grandma” was coined by Lex Nicoleta earlier in 2022 (check her out on Instagram or TikTok). But what exactly is “coastal grandma” style?
Would the lead character in a Nancy Meyers movie wear this outfit? Then it’s coastal grandma.
Would Martha Stewart wear it while giving a tour of her Maine estate? Then it’s coastal grandma.
Would Ina Garten wear it to throw an effortless backyard dinner party? Well… you get the idea!
Source: Warner Bros. Pictures
Today, let’s look at a few coastal grandma basics to help you bring this look to life:
Loose tops
The coastal grandma aesthetic is all about breezy comfort. Think loose button-down shirts with rolled-up sleeves in white or blue stripes, in breathable fabrics such as linen or cotton poplin. As an added benefit, this type of cover-up also shields the delicate skin on your shoulders and neckline from direct sun.
No matter what you’re wearing, don’t forget to reapply sunscreen periodically – that’s the key to healthy skin at any age!
Flowy pants or loose dresses
When putting an outfit together, the coastal grandma aesthetic calls for “things you could garden in.” For bottoms, this means wide-leg linen trousers or a smocked dress, all the better if it has pockets. Make sure your pieces skew oversized rather than baggy or ill-fitting, and pair a looser-fitting piece with a more fitted one to help you look effortlessly put-together.
In terms of colours, any neutral shade is fair game: white, cream, beige, taupe, navy, olive, and even desaturated pastels work perfectly for this trend.
Source: IMDB
Big woven hats
No coastal grandma look is complete without a hat. Hats are a summer must-have to protect your eyes, hair, and scalp from damaging UV rays, glare, and wind. The coastal grandma classic is a straw hat; whether floppy-brimmed or structured, these hats keep you cool while shielding you from the sun. Trove has lots of great summer hats in stock; have a look and reach out if you’re interested in something specific!
Would Ellen Burstyn wear it in “The Baby-Sitters Club” (1995)? Then it’s coastal grandma. Source: IMDB
Accessories
When accessorizing your coastal grandma look, remember: less is more. You only need a few basics to capture the seaside vibe:
a woven seagrass tote to carry all the essentials you’ll need in a day
flat leather sandals that are comfortable for all-day wear, whether you’re headed to the beach or the farmers’ market
a cashmere cardigan or soft throw to drape over yourself on cooler nights
Now you’re ready to live your best coastal grandma-inspired life. Don’t forget your sunglasses!
Tip: Do you follow Trove Fashion on Instagram? You can browse many of our new arrivals on our feed, see our styling suggestions, and shop our stories on Tuesdays and Thursdays!
