Coastal Grandmother Style - 2022's most viral trend!

If you've been on socials lately, you've probably heard of the term 'Coastal Grandmother' or 'Coastal Grandma' style. Made popular on TikTok, it celebrates a natural, pared-back look. But to me, it's much more than that; it goes beyond fashion & trends to encompass a lifestyle many dream of. Think laid-back luxury, natural elements, linen fabrics, cosy chunky knits and long picnics on the beach with friends & family. Sounds pretty good doesn't it? Let's take a deep dive into Coastal Grandma style and how you can get the look for yourself at home.

 

My first movie house crush - the gorgeous home featured in 'Father of the Bride' by Nancy Meyers - total Coastal Grandmother vibes

 

In a nutshell, Coastal Grandmother is an entire lifestyle inspired by the look made famous in Nancy Meyers’ popular movies. The houses in her films are almost more famous than the characters themselves.

My first movie house crush was the gorgeous home featured in 'Father of the Bride', but the stunning Hamptons beach house featured in 'Something’s Gotta Give' is probably the most famous example. That home has inspired thousands of interiors - and designers - since the film's release in 2003, and it's still a classic today. And that's the trick - 'Coastal Grandma' style centres around classic pieces, neutral colours, and lots of texture to create a style that stands the test of time.  Much like the characters in Nancy Meyers' films, the homes are stylish, chic and have their own innate sense of style.

 

A corner of the living room in Something's Gotta Give 

 

I first posted about the famous Something's Gotta Give house back in 2015. You can read the post here if you'd like to see more detail on the house itself, and why it's still a firm favourite after all these years. But if ever there was a dream house of mine, this would be it - a classic Hampton Style beach house with cedar shingles, multi paned french doors, timber floors, those transom windows, the verandahs, the hydrangeas....I could go on forever!

 

 

Essentials in any Coastal Grandma style home are the classics: linen, jute, chunky knits, soft prints, antiques collected over time, rattan, grasscloth and artwork that's unique and individual. It’s all about creating a comfortable, lived in space that's breezy and light - and never kitsch. There's definitely no anchors on the wall or 'Gone Fishing' signs in a Coastal Grandmother home!

 

Of course, you don't need to be a grandmother to appreciate the Coastal Grandma trend. The home featured in the film 'Home Again' (directed by Nanct Meyer's daughter no less) is the perfect example of a younger take on the trend. 

 

After the last few years of pandemics and upheaval, this look is spot-on. It's all about using what you have, whether it's a family heirloom or lucky op-shop find, and mixing it with the things you already own to create a relaxed and calm vibe. That feeling of being at home with all your favourite people & favourite things makes you forget the craziness happening outside and it's something many of us crave right now. I think we all have a new appreciation for our homes and there's definitely a wholesome appeal to the coastal grandmother lifestyle that resonates with many of us - me included!

 

The 2019 Southern Living Idea house - designed by Heather Chadduck, it's got all the hallmarks of Coastal Grandmother style

 

We’re also seeing a shift away from minimalism, which is something I'm all for. A clean, minimal home can look great but there's nothing like a layered, comfortable space to make you feel safe and cocooned.  It has just the right amount of nostalgia but with a more grown-up sensibility, making the  #coastalgrandmother trend one that appeals to both Millennials and Gen X  alike. And the beauty of this look? No two homes will look the same; each space will have it's own style, reflecting the owners' taste & personality. 

 

Minimalism be gone! Southern Living Idea House 2019 Living room

 

Here's a list of 10 things you need to get the Coastal Grandmother look for yourself:

 

1. Fresh flowers are a must, whether they're a bunch of supermarket blooms, or foliage picked fresh from the garden.
2. Wall art, cushions and accessories in airy blues, creamy whites, and even soft golds & yellows work beautifully.
3. Texture is key - think linen, rattan, boucle & chunky knits.
4. Antique and thrifted pieces add individuality and style. The Coastal Grandma would never choose every piece of furniture from the same shop.
5. Less, but better, is the name of the game.
6. Marble or timber bench tops in the kitchen.
7. Scent is important. Add candles and diffusers for mood. 
8. Collections - think shells en-masse in a vintage bowl.
9. Driftwood looks great on consoles & sideboards.
10. Soft lighting - lamps and wall sconces instead of harsh overhead lights.

 

If, like me, you feel the Coastal Grandma style is perfect for you, I've created a Coastal Grandmother Wall Art Print Collection, designed to make it easy for you to create the look for yourself at home. All you need to do is choose the designs you like, and the size, and we'll ship them straight to your door. Doesn't get much easier than that! Here's a look at some of the prints available:

 

I hope you've enjoyed my tour of the Coastal Grandma vibe, and I'd love to know if you're a fan too? Or is it not your thing? Let me know what you think!

Kerri