Fashion moves fast, but #fashiontok moves faster. With a blink of an eye, there’s a new “core” trend popping up on our FYP that ends up going viral (see: “tenniscore”). The latest aesthetic the internet is obsessing over evokes the styling of a Nancy Meyer movie, where the leading ladies often dress in comfy cardigans and easy beachwear for their house-by-the-coast lifestyles.
TikToker Lex Nicoleta, who takes credit for coining the new aesthetic, calls it “coastal grandmother” (not to be confused with “grandmacore“). After one month, the hashtag #coastalgrandmother has garnered 14.2 million views and counting on the social media platform.
@lexnicoleta GRAN EXPLAINED #coastalgrandmother
“Coastal grandmother,” is described by Nicoleta as the aesthetic for people who “love Nancy Meyer movies, coastal vibes, recipes and cooking, Ina Garten, and cozy interiors.” It goes beyond fashion and embodies an entire lifestyle — there’s the “coastal grandmother” way to pick home décor, books, cocktails and more.
Despite the name, you don’t have to live by the ocean or wait until your retirement kicks in to really embrace the essence of a “coastal grandmother.” Like many recent “core” aesthetics (i.e. cabincore, pamcore, and even kidcore), “coastal grandmother” is an escapist aesthetic that allows you to live the life you aspire to have. So even if you can’t escape to a beach house on the sea, by throwing on a silk overshirt, loose linens, or cashmere sweater over a striped button-down, and the effect of living that cozy life can still kick in.
Need some inspo on how to truly live your best “coastal grandmother” life? Here are five pieces to snag now to nail the trend.
Oversize Striped Shirt
Pair an oversize striped shirt with a crochet bucket hat, and your go-to sandals (opt for the Manolo x Birkenstock collab to really elevate the look), and you’re ready for a stroll on the beach.
White Pants
A summer-ready white trouser is a must-have to nail the coastal look. Choose a high-waisted style to give it a more sophisticated finish.
Light Sweater
A cardigan sweater is a must for walking along the beach (a “coastal grandmother’s favorite activity). Throw it over your shoulders or layer it over a simple white button-down.
Le Creuset Dutch Oven
The piece de resistance of any “coastal grandmother” kitchen is a Le Creuset dutch oven. It shows you love to cook and entertain guests with dinner parties — and Le Creuset is a staple in Ina Garten’s kitchen and should be in yours too.
Coupe Glasses
Lastly, a chic coupe set will elevate your drinkware, whether you’re having a solo martini while you look through Martha Stewarts’ delicious recipes for dinner inspo or have friends over for a backyard social.
