Coastal Grandma or Coastal Gran is an internet lifestyle trend that I can get behind. It’s essentially a self-care vibe. Coastal Grandma inspires an aesthetic surrounded by happy memories, comfortable environments, calming beach waves, and a sassy wardrobe.
As far as I can tell this term was coined by TikTok creator Lex Nicoleta — a beautiful young woman who is certainly too young to be a grandmother! Good news is that you don’t have to be a grandma to be a coastal gran – this trend is for anyone!
Here’s a short clip that describes Coastal Grandma vibe:
Dress Like a Coastal Grandma
If you can picture Meryl Streep or Diane Keeton in some of their Nancy Myers movie roles you can get a visual of the Coastal Grandma fashion sense. Here are a couple items that scream Coastal Gran style:
Create a Coastal Gran Environment
First, you need to turn up the tunes! Enjoy this Coastal Grandmother-inspired playlist.
Now, grab that family heirloom vase or pitcher and fill it with fresh-cut flowers from your backyard (or scoop up some affordable ones at Trader Joe’s). I’m eyeing up the blue hydrangeas growing in my yard!
Another decor option is to buy a bag of lemons and display them in a gorgeous bowl. Great to make some refreshing lemonade in a mason jar.
Accessories are a low expense way to stay trendy. Here are few simple ways to splash in some coastal vibes:
Cook Like a Coastal Grandma
For your soiree on the patio or terrace, you’re going to need to pop open a bottle of rose. Or, make your own ice-cubes for a refreshing drink. Buy an old fashioned ice cube tray and fill it with water and fresh blueberries or rosemary sprigs before popping it into the freezer.
You’ll want to accessorize your table so it’s inviting those coastal family members:
My husband’s Low Country Boil is ideal for a summer holiday or celebration. Here’s the recipe from my mom’s ‘Mimi and Me’ cookbook:
Stay Active Like a Coastal Grandma
Another thing I like about this trend is that it showcases an older adult in a positive light. Let’s celebrate and admire what aging well looks like! TikToker Jennifer Elbehar said it best when she she said, “Seriously, when have you ever heard the words aspirational lifestyle and grandmother in the same sentence!”
@thestyleequation The latest trend, not just for grandmothers! #coastalgrandmother @Lex Nicoleta #lifestyle ♬ original sound - Jennifer Ebelhar
Here are some activities to either up your energy level or reserve them for the hypothetical grandkids!
- Watch any of these movies on a rainy day – like one of my personal favorites Something’s Gotta Give
- Pack up a picnic using all your farmer’s market finds
- Take a stroll at a local attraction known for it’s gardens and grab some gelato afterward
- Dust off the jam jars and catch some fireflies with the family
- Bake some raspberry scones to serve with your morning cup of coffee
- Create a centerpiece, candle holder, or mirror using seashells
- Cozy up in the hammock with a magazine like Coastal Living or one of these beachy reads:
Now that I’ve written this I’m even more excited about our upcoming trip to the Almafi Coast! My daughter Natalie graduated college in May and has been backpacking in Europe with two girlfriends. My husband, son, and I are meeting her in Naples, Italy. I envision breezy walks among lemon trees, fresh seafood pastas on ceramic dinnerware, and limoncello on our patio while watching the sunset. Follow along with us on TikTok or Instagram.
What kind of Coastal Gran vibe will you be striving for this summer: Nantucket, Malibu, Miami, St. Tropez, or [fill in the blank]?
Cheers to having a Coastal Gran life this summer!
