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What is Coastal Grandmother Style?

Cultivate the style by mixing a coastal color palette and a few heirloom pieces.

The Coastal Grandmother look refers to a timeless style that has been around for many, many years–yet the term itself originated just a few months ago. It was coined by TikToker Lex Nicoleta, and has since taken the internet by storm. This aesthetic is primarily a clothing fashion trend, but is quickly making its way into homes around the world. The clothing style utilizes soft, natural tones that have the overall sensation of being clean and classy. This is done through white statement pieces accented by colors that evoke feelings of the beach. Think white jeans or casual trousers, white button up shirts, and floppy straw hats.

When it comes to interior design, this style consists of white furnishings and neutral colors with accents of blue and gold, topped off with driftwood accents and rattan pieces. The use of these colored accents on white staple pieces makes the look unique from other styles we have seen before. It is important to keep this style uncluttered, so simple is always better both when it comes to the clothing style and interior design.

Are you drawn to the light, airy and classic appeal of this look? The good news is, you don’t need a beach house or grandkids to enjoy the Coastal Grandmother design style! This is a trend that emphasizes minimalism, modernism and vintage styles that can be achieved at any price level. We’ve outlined some of the important elements of this design style and provided you with some methods to incorporate this trending aesthetic into your own home.

Coastal Grandmother style borrows from both classic coastal decor and clean, contemporary style.

Neutral Color Palette

The Coastal Grandmother style utilizes neutral color palettes with accents of soft blues and greens that are reminiscent of the sea and sky. The primary color that is used throughout the style is white, but you’ll also find a range of other neutral shades, such as creams, beiges and sandy shades that also look like they’d fit right in at the beach. While these neutrals shades are used for the backdrop and major players in the room, the accent pieces and artwork bring in some pops of color and visual interest to the space. These colors effortlessly achieve the cozy chic and timeless look and work to create a room that embodies this aspirational lifestyle trend!

Large furnishings, like a sofa or sectional, typically feature white or other light neutrals.

Achievable Style at all Price Levels

One of the best things about this style is that it is attainable at any price level. Since the theme is so heavily focused on its colors, you can look for various furnishings and decorations within your budget that match the aesthetic of the Coastal Grandmother look to update various elements of your home. This style is also achievable if you are willing to splurge—you can look for statement pieces that match the aesthetic and update a room or the entirety of your home. Since the style is so classic, it’s also practical to invest in an heirloom-quality piece or two that can be enjoyed for many years to come.

Combine Antique and Modern Pieces

In fact, one of the primary aspects of the Coastal Grandmother aesthetic is its staple antique pieces combined with modern decor. Vintage decor is a big portion of the ‘Grandma’ side of this hybrid style! This trend is similar to the Grandmillennial style in the combination of antique and modern decorations, but Coastal Grandmother is distinct in its lighter, more minimalist fashion that emphasizes the less-is-more, minimalistic design philosophy.

Learn more about Grandmillennial style here.

Neutral area rugs help bring rich textures to the Coastal Grandmother look.

Unique Textures

One of the distinctive features of the Costal Grandmother aesthetic is the emphasis on both lush and natural textures. This style incorporates both simple and elegant textures such as cashmere, canvas, linen and cable knits. You can utilize these textures in various elements of your decor such as accent pillows, throw blankets, furniture and rugs. The combination of multiple of these textures enhances the other combinations seen in this style such as the modern and antique blend.

Florals, either fresh or faux, bring a finishing design touch to Coastal Grandmother inspired spaces.

Simple Room Updates

There are many simple updates you can add to your house that will give it the Coastal Grandmother feel:

  • Update throw pillows and blankets to bring in the breezy blue and green shades associated with this design style.
  • Add fresh flowers to your room to give it a cozy and fresh feel. Bonus points for incorporating an antique vase!
  • Explore new wall decor such as oceanscapes and other beachy prints.
  • Try out a new area rug to add rich color and texture to your room.
  • Utilize driftwood accents to bring a little coastal beauty into your interiors, no matter how far you are from a beach.

Coastal Grandmother Statement Pieces

If you are looking for a complete renovation beyond accessories and decorations, there are several pieces that are truly emblematic of the style:

  • Big white sofas are a mainstay of the Coastal Grandmother living room design.
  • Antique or modern wood end tables and accent furniture complement the neutral aspects of the room and complete the desired aesthetic.
  • Adirondack chairs are great additions to your outdoor living space to carry this new style throughout the entirety of your home.
  • Rattan pieces also help to lend a natural and organic feel to any space and are easy to add into a room without making it too busy.

You can combine these larger renovations with the simple room updates that were mentioned above to complete your Coastal Grandmother look.

The Costal Grandmother aesthetic is achievable for any home, any price level and is easy to incorporate by utilizing heirlooms with modern elements that encourage a cozy chic and vacation-like feel.

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