I Want To Dress Like A Coastal Grandmother All Summer—Here’s Everything I’m Buying
There’s a kind of magic in summer style that I always come back to—easy, breezy, timeless. And if you’ve been around Beautifully Seaside for a while, you already know the exact look I’m talking about. That light, effortless coastal grandmother style that feels like fresh air and sea salt—sun-faded linen, soft knits, and straw hats that whisper “Nantucket weekend.”
This year, I’m leaning in more than ever. I want to dress like a coastal grandmother all summer long. And I have a feeling you might be in the same boat (preferably a vintage wooden one anchored in a quiet harbor). So I put together a full list of pieces I’m loving—things I’ve already bought or added to cart—that capture that dreamy, seaside feeling we all adore.
Whether you’re vacationing in the Cape or just want to feel a little more relaxed and refined in your everyday routine, these are the essentials. All inspired by the kind of woman who grows hydrangeas in terracotta pots, keeps lemon loaf on the counter “just because,” and always has a beach tote packed and ready.
So, what exactly is coastal grandmother style?
It’s a look—and a lifestyle—that feels like summer in a Nancy Meyers movie. Think crisp button-downs, breezy linens, cozy knits for cool mornings, and a soft color palette inspired by sand, sea, and sky. It’s the elegance of Diane Keaton in Something’s Gotta Give mixed with the ease of weekends at a seaside cottage. The coastal grandmother is effortlessly polished, fresh-faced, always reaching for a straw hat, and likely has a tote packed with a book and fresh produce. She gravitates toward timeless classics—pieces that feel lived-in, loved, and beautifully unfussy.
It’s about embracing a life that feels slow, intentional, and beautiful—in how you dress, how you decorate, and how you move through the day.
I Want to Dress Like a Coastal Grandmother All Summer—Here’s Everything I’m Buying
Heritage Cotton Relaxed Cardigan with Nautical Embroidery
This cardigan is everything. It’s got that soft, slightly oversized feel we all love, but the tiny embroidered sailboat and fish? That’s what makes it. Coastal and classic, and it layers like a dream over a tank or even a swimsuit.
Bandeau Scrunchie One-Piece
Obsessed is an understatement. The scrunchie texture is so flattering, and the bandeau neckline gives it a little retro, Nancy Meyers-in-the-Hamptons vibe. Also doubles as a top under linen pants.
Cotton Striped Sweater Tank
This little knit striped tank is my go-to. It feels elevated but super wearable—like something Diane Keaton would layer under a breezy button-down. I wear it with jeans, linen pants, or tossed over a swimsuit. Available in more colors.
Wide Brim Raffia Bucket Hat
Yes, it’s as cute in person. The brim is just structured enough, the raffia keeps it feeling coastal and cool, and it somehow makes even a ponytail and sunglasses look intentional.
Square Toe Crochet Ballet Flats
Chic, comfy, and just a little unexpected. These are the shoes that pull an outfit together without trying too hard. The crochet adds texture, the square toe feels fresh, and they’re easy to slip on with everything from sundresses to denim. Available in more colors.
White Tretorn Sneaker
A classic with a twist. These have the preppy-cool look I love, but with updated details that feel modern. Super lightweight, great with wide-leg pants, and perfect for long summer walks (or just coffee runs). Available in more colors.
Drawstring Linen Pants
Basically, my summer uniform. Lightweight, breezy, and they go with everything. I love them with a tank and slides, but they also dress up easily with a cardigan or button-down for that beach-to-brunch vibe. Available in more colors.
Hamptons Pant Set
So cute you’ll want to wear them past breakfast. The stripes are classic, the fit is cozy, and if you’re like me, you’ll sleep like. baby in this set. Available in more colors.
Want more coastal-inspired favorites like this?
I share new coastal stories every day to help you bring a little seaside joy into your closet, home, and daily life. I hope you enjoyed, I Want to Dress Like a Coastal Grandmother All Summer—Here’s Everything I’m Buying. If you’re new here, welcome! I’d love for you to subscribe to the Beautifully Seaside newsletter where I share my latest posts, coastal must haves, and more. If you loved this post, you’ll want to read how to make every weekend feel like a coastal getaway.
