This post has a sponsored inclusion of Vera Bradley, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everymom editorial board. We only recommend products we genuinely love.
"There are trends that come and go, and then there are trends that endure, unaffected by time, both cultural (and runway-driven) influence and personal changing preferences. While the term “coastal grandmother” first started percolating on the internet in the summer of 2022, the subject matter it was describing had manifested long before. The aesthetic—which, at its core, encapsulates traditional New England style—is timeless in nature, making it unlikely it’s going anywhere any time soon. And this season, we’re leaning into coastal grandmother fall.
While the coastal grandma aesthetic tends to be associated with the summer season (the word “coastal” tends to conjure a mental image of eating lobster by the seaside on a warm evening in July), the trend has also been finding its footing in fall fashion. And—when you think about it—it makes total sense. The coastal grandmother aesthetic is about being understated and chic. It focuses on being intentional with one’s wardrobe choices and disregarding what’s currently trending on TikTok. And isn’t a timeless, stylish look exactly what so many of us are looking to channel come fall time?
A Quick Reminder: What is the Coastal Grandmother Aesthetic?
As I mentioned above, coastal grandmother is a popularization of classic New England style in both fashion and interior design. Think: a Nancy Meyers film come to life. In regard to channeling the aesthetic through fashion, think cozy knits, tailored bottoms, and nautical-inspired clothing and accessories.
Neutral tones such as beige and cream are quintessential to the trend, and while muted shades of color can provide helpful accenting in the summer, these tones can be swapped out for moodier shades in the fall. Jewel tones, rich browns, and classic patterns such as houndstooth, tartan, and horizontal striping are all on trend for re-creating the aesthetic during the autumnal season.
I’m a firm believer that the coastal grandmother aesthetic is perfect for moms. The preppy, put-together looks that thrive on practicality and are comprised of pieces that never go out of style make it the perfect choice for mothers who have limited time and budget to shop, lead a busy lifestyle, and would like to feel put-together with minimal effort.
Whether you’re ready to dive headfirst into the aesthetic, or are looking to add a few timeless clothing items to your closet for an autumnal pick-me-up, here are some fall coastal grandmother pieces to get you started.
Accessories
Vera Bradley
In the summertime, coastal grandmas are all about straw and raffia. Soft leather and autumnal prints work better for fall while still feeling fun and chic. Plus tote bags are practical for moms on the go.
2 patterns available
Vera Bradley
An effortless leather handbag emulates the timeless nature of the coastal grandma aesthetic. This particular bag pairs with any and all outfits and is the perfect size for holding essentials (keys, wallet, etc.) that you want to keep separated from the diaper bag.
5 colors and patterns available
Hill House Home
A simple black headband is the chic accessory every coastal grandmother needs in her closet come fall. While subtle, a neutral headband can add a sense of completeness to just about any ensemble.
Gorjana
The warmth of gold jewelry resonates with the fall season. A compass necklace is a fun way to nod a hat to the coast-inspired style while adding some charm to your look.
2 finishes available
Tops
Sézane
A staple cable knit sweater is an item every coastal grandma has in her closet. A creamy white version is traditional and pairs well with everything in your wardrobe. If possible, invest in a quality piece that will last you a lifetime.
sizes XXS – XXXL
J.Crew
A crochet sailor sweater is a timeless, versatile piece you’ll find yourself reaching for over and over again. A slightly oversized fit lends itself well to layering with other pieces.
2 colors available
sizes XXXS – 3X
Quince
A tie-neck top is a classy piece you’ll wear on repeat—particularly if you work in an office or spend a lot of time on Zoom. This top comes in six different colors, all of which ring true to the wardrobe of an affluent grandmother who lives by the sea.
6 colors available
sizes XS – XL
Lands’ End
Striped tees are a wardrobe basic much-loved by coastal grandmothers (and, let’s be honest, all of us regular moms). This long-sleeve tee is the perfect outfit-starter item for layering beneath your favorite fall sweaters and jackets.
4 colors available
sizes XS – XL
& Other Stories
An oversized turtleneck sweater is the epitome of classy cozy. Where it while embarking on chilly, beachside evening strolls or—perhaps more realistically—while watching a Halloween movie marathon with your kids.
2 colors available
sizes XS – L
Anthropologie
Versatile for any occasion, this timeless sweater is built for trips to the pumpkin patch or evenings spent sipping cider around the campfire. The polo detail adds a subtle, yet eye-catching feminine touch.
3 colors available
sizes XXS – 3X
Sézane
A breathable button-down shirt that is posh yet comfortable is a piece any coastal grandma would approve of. The color in combination with the stripes are visually striking and set it apart from the many button-down options available across retailers.
10+ colors available
sizes 0 – 16
Jackets
Abercrombie & Fitch
Tweed jackets are an easy way to achieve that old money look. Pair with trousers or a skirt for the office, or dressed down with a pair of jeans on the weekend.
3 colors available
sizes XXS – XL
J.Crew
Nothing screams “coastal grandma” quite like a lady jacket. Pick up this patch-pocket option in traditional navy stripe or grab for the on-trend tan shade.
4 colors available
sizes XXXS – 3X
Athleta
Coastal grandmas spend a lot of time outside, so practicality is a key. This lightweight, sustainably-made puffer can keep you warm while out visiting your local farmer’s market or apple orchard.
3 colors available
sizes XXS – 3X
Boden
While it may not be at the top of everyone’s shopping priority list, a stylish rain coat is an essential piece for channeling this trend—it rains a lot by the sea! Invest in a classy waterproof coat to see you through your kids’ outdoor sporting events—you won’t regret it.
4 colors available
sizes 0 – 22
Sézane
Timeless and smart in nature, a blazer is a coastal grandma-approved jacket option. A navy tartan piece provides a beautiful contrast against the foliage of the season.
10+ colors available
sizes 0 -16
Dresses
Banana Republic Factory
Coastal grandmothers are known for their love of seersucker during the summer months. A long-sleeve, striped preppy dress is the perfect way to bring the aesthetic into the cooler months. Style with a pair of boots or ballet flats.
2 colors available
sizes XS – XL
Anthropologie
Vests are having a major moment. This mini dress speaks to classic equestrian style seen in New England fashion and can be outfitted countless ways. Layer with a turtleneck underneath for a cozy-chic look as the temperature starts to dip.
sizes XS – XL
Gap
Again, coastal grandmas are big on the cableknit. This dress is an optimal piece to add to your closet if fall in your geographic area isn’t exactly “crisp.” For those who do experience cooler temps, layer with a jacket on top.
2 colors available
sizes XXS – XXL
Abercrombie & Fitch
A comfortable collared dress is a wonderful one-and-done outfit option for busy moms. Style with boots or loafers and your favorite handbag. Understated tartan is a traditional pattern that will never go out of style.
3 colors available
sizes XXS – XL
Free People
If you’re looking for a dress that throws classy autumnal vibes while still being appropriate for warm weather, look no further. The ruffle neckline is breathtaking and reason alone to hire a babysitter and set up a date night.
7 colors available
sizes XS – XL
Sézane
Show me a mom who doesn’t love a sweater dress. The striped pattern of this piece is nautical, timeless, and all a coastal grandma could ask for come fall time.
sizes XS – XXL
Bottoms
Abercrombie & Fitch
Tailored trousers add a put-together feel to any and all outfits you build with them. This particular pair is a favorite among the masses, touted for its fit and many color options.
6 colors available
sizes 23 – 37
Hill House Home
A midi skirt in a romantic autumnal print pairs beautifully with the chunky sweaters a coastal grandma has lining her closet. Dress it up for date night with a blouse and heels.
2 colors available
sizes XS – XXL
MANGO
Knit pieces are essential for channeling this particular aesthetic. Sweater pants are what fall rom-com movie nights are made of. Also perfect for coffee runs when the kids have you running on empty.
sizes S – L
Abercrombie & Fitch
Every mom needs at least one pair of jeans that they love. Coastal grandma-fy this internet favorite pair with aesthetic-driven shoes and tops.
10+ colors available
sizes 23 – 37
Shoes
Zappos | Madewell
Clogs aren’t going away any time soon. This posh leather pair speaks to days spent in the garden or vineyard.
2 colors available
Madewell
Loafers are the comfortable shoe every mom needs on her shoe rack. Comfortable and versatile, they also possess a magical ability to instantly dress up any outfit they’re paired with.
Everlane
To say ballet flats are “in” would be an understatement. As a coastal grandma-approved shoe, they’re practical, chic, and versatile. This particular pair gained a rave review from one of our editors.
5 colors available
Dolce Vita
Tall riding boots are quintessential to New England fashion. Invest in a classic suede style and pair with everything from jeans to dresses.
8 styles available; also come in wide calf
J.Crew
If a classic tall leather boot is more to your fancy, then it doesn’t get any more perfect than this pair from J.Crew. These boots would look stunning styled with fall florals or denim.
Zappos | Madewell
Speaking from experience, if you have athletic calves (or tend to experience difficulty purchasing “regular” calf width boots), you’ll want to nab these boots in extended calf.
Why You Can Count on Us
The Everygirl Media Group has brought valuable content to our readers for 12+ years. In 2018, The Everymom set out to ensure that all moms know they’re not alone. If you find yourself seeking advice on how to style the latest fashion trend or searching for the best kid-friendly coffee table, we have the answers. And if you’re wondering what’s actually worth it from a sale or looking for a review of the hottest new kids’ product, we’ve got that covered too. From our annual Registry Awards and beloved holiday gift guides to the shopping round-ups you find on our site every day, The Everymom commerce team is well-versed in sifting through thousands of products to curate a digestible list for you. We combine our own experience with in-depth research to bring you a selection that meets our high standards for both fashion and function.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Emilee Janitz, Contributing Writer
Emilee is an accomplished communications strategist and lifestyle journalist. She currently works on the content team at Enterprise SEO company Terakeet where she creates and executes reputation management strategies for Fortune 500 companies. She is a Contributing Fashion Writer for The Everygirl and has additionally been published on POPSUGAR, Motherly, MSN, and Yahoo.
This post has a sponsored inclusion of Vera Bradley, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everymom editorial board. We only recommend products we genuinely love.