How to Wear the Coastal Grandmother Aesthetic This Summer

What Is the Coastal Grandmother Aesthetic?

The Coastal Grandmother aesthetic is more than a trend—it’s a lifestyle rooted in timeless, easy elegance. Picture breezy fabrics, neutral palettes, and silhouettes that feel as effortless as they look. Think Diane Keaton in Something’s Gotta Give—but with Bebe flair.

And here’s the truth: you don’t need a beach house, a chef’s kitchen, or even grandchildren to wear this look. You just need an appreciation for classic pieces, soft structure, and clothes that let you exhale.

📝 Related: Summer Wardrobe Staples I’ll Always Invest In

📖 A Quick Story…

I’m a Bebe now, and let me tell you—my style priorities have shifted. I need clothes that are chic yet comfortable, polished but easy. That’s why I’m fully leaning into the Coastal Grandmother aesthetic. It’s elegant, unfussy, and fits this next chapter of life beautifully.

Lately, I’ve been living in pieces from Frank & Eileen. Yes, I know—the price point isn’t for everyone. But here’s what I love about them: they understand how women actually live. Their fabrics breathe, their silhouettes move, and nothing feels like you’re trying too hard. And they wash like a dream!

That said, you can absolutely channel this vibe without the investment. If Frank & Eileen isn’t in your budget right now, J.Crew, Everlane, and Amazon Essentials all have great options that give you the look—without the splurge.

Because the Coastal Grandmother aesthetic isn’t about labels—it’s about attitude. And I plan to wear mine with confidence, comfort, and a little salty breeze in my hair.

🌿 How to Build the Look

The Coastal Grandmother aesthetic starts with clean lines and breathable layers. It’s calm. It’s collected. It’s slightly smug in the best possible way.

🤍 White Sleeveless Button-Down

An updated twist on the classic linen shirt. Perfect for layering, tying at the waist, or wearing solo on humid days.

🤍 Striped Wide-Leg Trousers

Vertical stripes elongate the leg, while the loose silhouette makes you feel like you could host brunch—or escape to the Amalfi coast.

🤍 Lightweight Sweater (Draped Casually)

Optional, but signature. Add over the shoulders to elevate the look instantly.

💸 Get the Look for Less: Frank & Eileen Style on a Budget

If you love the elevated ease of Frank & Eileen but want to recreate the look at a lower price point, I’ve got you covered. The Coastal Grandmother aesthetic isn’t about spending big—it’s about choosing pieces that are polished, breathable, and feel like you.

👕 For White Sleeveless Button-Downs

• Quince – Under $40 and fabulous quality
  
• J.Crew Factory – Classic cotton with great petite options
  
• Everlane – Sustainable, minimalist shirting
  

👖 For Striped Wide-Leg Trousers

• Old Navy – Their linen-blend styles are budget gold
  
• Banana Republic Factory – Great for coastal-chic tailoring
  
• Madewell – High-rise silhouettes with modern structure
  

🧥 For Lightweight Sweaters & Loungewear

• Z Supply – Known for soft knits that feel luxe
  
• Target (A New Day) – Stylish basics under $30
  
• Naadam – Affordable sustainable cashmere
  

🩳 For Everyday Elevated Basics

• Amazon Essentials – Clean lines, great price
  
• UNIQLO – Structured separates for summer
  
• The Drop by Amazon – Modern and versatile
  

You don’t need a designer label to look put together. What matters is how you feel in your clothes—and that they reflect your life, your pace, and your confidence.

👜 Accessories That Whisper, Not Shout

The accessories complete the look—with subtle sophistication:

• Structured Straw Tote – For errands or beach reads
  
• Espadrilles or Minimalist Sandals – Comfort without compromise
  
• Gold Hoops or Pearl Studs – Classic and easy
  
• Oversized Sunglasses – Polished, even if you’re makeup-free
  

🎥 See the Look in Action

In this video, I’m walking you through exactly how to build this look from the ground up—five outfits with all the coastal polish.

🏖️ The Coastal Grandmother Lifestyle

This aesthetic isn’t just about how you dress—it’s about how you live:

• A breezy playlist playing in the background
  
• Fresh peaches on the counter
  
• A good book waiting on the porch swing
  
• And a wardrobe that reflects a life well lived
  

It’s about choosing quality, ease, and elegance over trend-chasing chaos. And it’s never about dressing your age—it’s about dressing your intention.

👒 Closing Thoughts: Why Coastal Grandmother Style Works at Every Age

Coastal Grandmother style isn’t about trying to look younger—or older. It’s about leaning into the life you’re living right now with grace, ease, and a hint of salty confidence. It’s breathable fabrics, classic silhouettes, and knowing that a straw tote and a swipe of lipstick can turn even a grocery run into a moment.

For me, it’s not just a trend. It’s a lifestyle. A reflection of mornings spent walking Oscar, afternoons writing in linen, and evenings sipping iced tea (or let’s be honest—Cabernet) on the porch.

So whether you’re a new Bebe like me, or simply ready to embrace timeless style with a modern twist, Coastal Grandmother is more than just a summer aesthetic—it’s a state of mind.

➕ More Like This:

• Summer Wardrobe Staples I’ll Always Invest In
  
• 10 White Summer Outfit Ideas
  
• Reinvention for Women Over 50 | Beyond the Blazer
  

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