Alexandra Martin is a wearwell stylist living in NYC. When she's not creating stylist picks for wearwell members, she enjoys cooking old-school vegan health food, reading historical nonfiction, diving into astrology, and hanging out with her beloved friends.
Easy, breezy, billowy pieces in muted seaside hues are really hitting the spot right now. I’ve loved seeing the internet abuzz about the sophisticated, comfortable, Coastal Grandma Aesthetic. Trend forecaster Lex Nicoleta noticed and named this burgeoning style and I’m here to help you try this trend - sustainably, of course!
The basic elements of this look come down to a fluid silhouette created by loose-fitting pieces and a refined color palate that consists solely of hues found on a dreamy, secluded beach. Think warm sand, deep earthy stone, crystal blue water, green sea glass, and a touch of seashell pink. If you want even more inspo, Diane Keaton in As Good As It Gets is the style icon to look to, and we love to see a trend that is inspired by the easy, established elegance of women over 50.
Read on to learn the basic building blocks of Coastal Grandma style and my favorite sustainable and ethical pieces from wearwell that’ll have you nailing this trend.
Breezy Dresses
A flowy dress is my favorite foundation for this look. Choose one that evokes the pale pink of seashells like the Arden Linen Dress or opt for soft white with blue detailing for some nautical flair, like the Lea Striped Dress.
Other breezy dresses to try: Margie Floral Dress, Maya Dress, Anaya Shirt Dress
Beachy Bottoms
If you want to create a two-piece base for your Coastal Grandma ensemble, choose relaxed pants like the Nolan Pant or flowy skirts, like the Alison Floral Skirt. Jeans or overalls work for this look, too! Just keep them in ocean blue washes and choose a cut with a roomy, wide-leg fit.
Fillmore Boyfriend Jeans, Vintage Faded Blue
Other beachy bottoms to try: Voyage Overalls, Emerson Striped Trousers, Maxi Skirt, Izzy Skirt, Sothy Trousers
Easy Fitting Tops
Choose a button-up shirt like the Joni Classic Shirt in a size larger than you would normally wear, a body-skimming layering tank, or an oversized blouse like the Chennai Top to top things off. My biggest piece of advice is to stay within that all-important oceanfront color palette!
Joni Classic Shirt, Peppercorn
Other easy fitting tops to try: Cotton Print Tee, Malorie Tunic, Willow Blouse, Sierra Flannel Shirt
Cozy Cardigans
The cardigan is a crucial part of this look! Slip one on or throw it over your shoulders and tie the sleeves in front for that cozy coastal vibe. My picks are the Jasmine Cardigan and Bridget Cardigan for a perfectly effortless vibe, or the Wisteria Sweater if you prefer something with more length. When creating a nearly monochromatic outfit, use texture to add visual interest. Knitwear is an easy way to do this!
Other cozy cardigans to try: Cassie Cardigan, Bianca Butterfly Cardigan, Eliza Wrap Cardigan, Imani Long Cardigan, Loren Cardigan
Timeless Jewelry
Save your statement necklaces for another day; the Coastal Grandma aesthetic is all about delicate, understated pieces that blend into your outfit. Choose small pearls or baubles that are reminiscent of sea glass, like the Pearl Charm Necklace and Stella Hoops. I like to choose pieces that add rich detail and dimension to the undulating hues of seaside beauty that your outfit is built on, like the Beachcomber Necklace.
Beachcomber Necklace, Moonscape
Other timeless jewelry to try: Madeline Earrings, Arc Necklace, Marina Necklace, Walton Gemstone Hoops
Add the Finishing Touches
Easy neutral slip-on shoes, practical totes, lightweight scarves, and nautical-inspired bags round out this look! Here are a few essentials that scream Coastal Grandma but are versatile enough to be styled with many other looks:
Georgia Tote Bag, Camel Hunter
Other finishing touches to try: The Camila Slide, Hermelinda Macrame Bag, Webbing Bag Strap, Maly Bag, Color Block Tote, Claudia Bucket Hat, Blanca Tote
Shop wearwell's entire collection to find more pieces that will give you Coastal Grandma Chic vibes!
