TikTok's coastal grandmother aesthetic transcends the seasons
The 'Diane Keaton'-esque look is going nowhere this fall

Picture this: a Nancy's Meyers movie. That's it—that's the 'coastal grandmother aesthetic' and while the term 'coastal' might lead you to believe that it's exclusively a summer trend—we're delighted to tell you that sea-side granny vibes are very much here to stay this Autumn/Winter season. So here's everything you need to know about building your perfect transitional, coast-inspired capsule wardrobe.
If you're new to the coastal grandmother side of TikTok, the latest trending hashtag pays homage to the queen of rom-coms and embraces the carefree, chic vibe that the filmmakers' protagonists embody, from Erica Barry to Amanda Woods. Needless to say, ivory turtlenecks abound.
In between TikTok beauty hacks and questionable challenges, influencer Lex Nicoleta (@lexnicoleta) coined the new movement, and it just screams Diane Keaton. Obviously, that means we're all on very much board.
@lexnicoleta ♬ original sound - Lex Nicoleta
Don't worry, to achieve the trend you don't have to be an actual grandma, nor own a dreamy seaside abode. It's all about the neutral, rustic shades, flattering but flowy shapes and basically looking like you spend your afternoons reading books and drinking wine on a sandy beach.
So if that sounds like a lifestyle you want to embody, here's everything you need to know about the new craze—from staple pieces you need to recreate the look, to the films that inspired the trend...
What is the coastal grandmother aesthetic?
Light, airy, relaxed—coastal grandmother is not just a style, it's a way of being. It's a low-key day on the couch, book at hand and tea Pinot Grigio nearby on the counter. It's a beach picnic with all of your favorite farmers' market goodies. Essentially, it's Something's Gotta Give.
In terms of style, it means classic and elegant, yet not overly fancy. In terms of interiors, there's a hygge home decor vibe coupled with open floor concepts, immaculate furniture and a kitchen well-stocked with white wine. (Do we sense an impending wine hangover?)
Again, we don't want to point fingers, but Diane Keaton is pretty much the CG icon.
Where to shop for the coastal grandmother aesthetic:
Where to shop in the US
- ZARA: For all your knit and trouser needs (especially if you're on a budget)
- Aritzia: Perfect for basics, flattering T-shirts and loungewear
- Reformation: Ideal for linen dresses
- Gap: For light button-ups and classic denim pieces
- Uniqlo: One of the best places to find basic t-shirts and pants in pastel colors
Where to shop in the UK
- H&M: Offers best-selling linen trousers and loose, suit-style trousers
- Pull&Bear: Ideal for basics and is famous for their surfer-girl vibes
- NA-KD: Go-to place for knitwear, from chunky winter pieces to scandi-style stripes
- &Other Stories: A great place for knitwear and simple accessories
- Cos: Chic jackets and scarves
Coastal grandmother aesthetic outfits:
Coastal grandmother basics for spring
Reformation Gitane Linen Dress
RRP: $248 / £248
This midi linen dress is perfect for spring as you can easily pair it with a cardigan or sweater for those chillier days. The sleeves will also keep you protected until the summer months hit.
It comes in four colors, but we recommend opting for this Oatmeal shade or the white, to fit with the coastal assignment.
This dress was literally made to be worn with a straw bag!
Linen Blend Jogging Pants
RRP: $49.90/£32.99
Light, comfortable and a warmer option for those transitional spring days. These pants also double as a cute loungewear option, so they're a win-win!
Coastal grandmother basics for summer
Think button-downs, neutral shades, bucket hats and lots of linen—all great additions ideal for your Summer wardrobe but are also basic, versatile pieces that work for all seasons.
Basic Linen Shirt
RRP: $39.90/£25.99
A white linen shirt is a no-brainer for summer and the coastal grandmother look. Plus it's super versatile—in fall you can wear your shirt over a T-Shirt, in winter under a sweater and in the warmer months on its own or over a bikini.
ZARA Jute Cotton Botton Hat
RRP: $29.90/£19.99
Bucket hats are proving themselves to be quite the timeless trend and are right at home by the coast. Opt for a cute cream hat so that it easily compliments your outfits.
Coastal grandmother basics for fall
Something that we just adore about this trend is how easily you can change it up for the colder months. You can keep all your summer coastal pieces and simply layer them with some chunky knits and canvas jackets before pulling on some cozy grey marl socks.
@lexnicoleta ♬ original sound - Lex | Coastal Grandmother
This is probably one of the most cost-effective and timeless clothing trends we've ever seen, as all the pieces are interchangeable. Whether you're pairing a linen dress with a heavy knit jumper, or a pair of smart pants with a white tank-top, the 'coastal grandmother aesthetic' equals the ultimate wardrobe for any minimalist!
Coastal grandmother basics for Winter
LEVIS 501 '90s straight-leg mid-rise denim jeans
RRP: $98 / £100
A good pair of vintage blue jeans are definitely a must for your winter coastal look and you can never go wrong with a pair of Levis 501s.
They feature a five-button fly, a mid-rise, a straight leg and can be easily styled with a wooly knit.
Coastal grandmother kitchenware
*Sips Pinot Grigio* If you're looking to take this aesthetic to the next level, you can also incorporate it into your home decor...
@lexnicoleta ♬ This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) - Natalie Cole
Acacia Wood Cutting Board 14”x7”
RRP: $21.99/£33.32
Picture the board covered in cheeses, crackers and cured meats as you host your friends. This wooden board is ideal for party spreads or just to give your kitchen a rustic feel.
JoyJolt Layla White Wine Glasses, Set of 4
RRP: $27.95/£42.59
A must-have for any kitchen, especially those wanting to embody a Nancy Meyers character. These glasses feature a classic rounded shape and will make you, and your kitchen shelves look instantly elegant.
Coastal grandmother movie picks
Spending a night in? What better way to embrace the coastal granny life than with a glass of wine and snuggling up to watch some of the best romantic comedies on Netflix will do the trick!
Here are some of our top movie picks:
- Something's Gotta Give
- It's Complicated
- Parent Trap (Elizabeth James' outfits are elite)
- Home Again
- Because I said so
- Mamma Mia (it's not Nancy Myers but it's got all that beachy goodness and ABBA!)
@lexnicoleta ♬ original sound - Lex Nicoleta
Speaking of Netflix, Deadline just reported that Nancy Meyers is set to write, direct and produce a new feature film for the platform, which means plenty of CG content is coming our way. The film is untitled, the plot details are scarce and we don't know who's starring in it, but we have a feeling that it'll bring a familiar vibe.
While you're gearing up for her next big film—we'll provide the details as soon as they're available—Lexi will keep you busy with a CG playlist that's reminiscent of our favorite CG movies' soundtracks.
Danielle is a writer for woman&home and My Imperfect Life, covering all-things news, lifestyle and entertainment.
The heart of her time at Future has been devoted to My Imperfect Life, where she's been attuned to the cosmos, new TV shows and relationship trends.
Before her time at Future, Danielle was the editor of Time Out New York Kids and a news editor at Elite Daily. Her work has also appeared in Domino, Chowhound, amNewYork and Newsday, among other outlets.
When Danielle is not working, you can usually find her reading a book, coffee at hand, or attempting a new recipe. (Recommendations always welcome!)
- Naomi JamiesonLifestyle News Writer
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