How to Nail the Nancy Meyers-Inspired Coastal Chic Trend

Katie loves a straw hat, not only because it protects her face from the sun, but it’s the perfect way to (literally) top off an outfit. This one from J.Crew can easily be rolled up to fit in your bag or suitcase, and it won’t look wonky or misshapen after you unroll it. It’s basically magic. 

If you hadn’t heard yet, ballet flats are back. While a true coastal grandma would argue they never went out of style, she would also appreciate a modern take on the classic shoe. This woven leather pair won’t suffocate your feet on hot summer days, and it would look perfect with linen pants.

It’s not Covergirl, but this linen number is easy, breezy, and beautiful. It’s loose-fitting enough that it won’t stick to you on hot days, but the criss-cross neck adds a bit of shape to the otherwise drapey dress.

Tend to your herb garden or tomato plants in this precious cotton bucket hat. The wide brim protects your face from harsh sun, but it’s still sturdy enough to keep from getting in the way of your view. This one can easily be tossed in the washer if it gets especially sweaty or dirty, too. 

These understated, oblong huggies are the ultimate cool-grandma earrings — they’re timelessly chic. They’re a little sleeker than your typical hoops, and less likely to get caught in your hair.

Cashmere is peak luxury, and as a coastal grandmother, you deserve it. This scarf is soft and cozy without being overwhelmingly large or thick, and can also be used as a small blanket when you’re traveling.

Sneakers are one of the most versatile and comfortable shoe options out there, and you can never go wrong with a crisp white pair. These ones from Cariuma have a classic look with a modern, sustainable twist: The insole is made from cork, which molds to the unique shape of your foot and helps absorb impact with each step.

Coastal grandmothers do not adhere to any arbitrary fashion rules, which is why they know white jeans can be worn year-round. These ones from Madewell have a slightly wide-legged fit, but are still tailored at the waist to keep them from feeling baggy.

A linen button-down is the quintessential coastal grandmother wardrobe essential (unless you want to argue it’s the turtleneck, à la Diane Keaton in Something’s Gotta Give). Something lived-in but still crisp is key. Structured cuffs and a collar give this top some shape, but the gauzy fabric keeps it feeling effortless.

Elastic waistbands and linen fabric are a match made in comfort heaven. For less than $40, you can snag these linen trousers from Quince in multiple colors. They’re an excellent, breathable option for those who run hot all year, and add a bit more elegance to your outfit than denim cutoffs.

Even bedtime calls for a proper outfit! This set from Lake is made of über soft and cozy Pima cotton, and the kimono-style top makes it a touch more fashionable than your average PJs.

Appreciating the finer things in life (and knowing you fully deserve them) is one of the main pillars of the coastal grandmother lifestyle. In that sense, indulging in pieces like cashmere sweaters is an investment. This classic polo silhouette will never go out of style, and it’ll feel oh-so-soft each time you slip it over your head.

Timeless, easy-to-style pieces are key to nailing the coastal grandma style, and there’s nothing quite as simple to style as a jumpsuit. These updated overalls from Alex Mill are made of soft recycled denim and pair well with just about any shirt underneath. The wide tie belt at the waist gives it a nice shape.

For those who prefer optimal organization, a regular tote bag won’t cut it. This one from Dagne Dover is full of pockets and compartments, so you’ll never lose your phone or wallet again. There are four exterior slip pockets and a phone pocket, and inside there are two additional slip pockets, a zip pocket, laptop pocket, and built-in water bottle holder. It’s everything you’ve ever needed in a bag and more. 

If this isn’t *the* quintessential coastal grandmother shirt, then we don’t know what is. Made from a crisp cotton, this perfectly oversized collared shirt has a bit of stiffness to it, but in the best way. It will always look freshly ironed, even if you just came back from an awkward walk on the beach with Jack Nicholson.

Hill House Home became famous for its nap dresses at the beginning of the pandemic, when people were looking for something comfortable enough to nap in but cute enough to wear on video calls. Katie fell for the trend, and wears her nap dress as much as possible. The classic nap dress has a shirred bodice and wide straps, a midi-length skirt, and some added ruffles. Opt for one of Hill House’s new wrinkle-resistant crepe versions, which have a heavier drape that’s perfect for chillier months.

If you’re embracing life on the coast, boat shoes are your transitional shoe. And if you’re buying boat shoes, they have to be Sperry. Everything about these shoes screams East-Coast chic, and they’re comfortable to boot. Go full fall with the dark brown, or keep it a little more seasonally flexible with navy.

Where would our coastal grandmother be without her trusty sunglasses? This caramel-colored pair is seasonless and large enough to feel a little bit like movie-star sunglasses without looking ridiculous.

A good pair of loafers will last for years, especially when they’re made with real leather. Not only will these stand up to everyday wear, but the classic silhouette means they’ll never go out of style. Reviewers say these are soft from the start and have extra cushy insoles, so there’s no need to break them in before wearing them out.

The beauty of this simply elegant necklace is in your ability to personalize it to say whatever you want it to. Engrave the names of your kids, grandkids, your own initials, your significant other’s, or even your dog’s name — the opportunities are endless.

Beach winds can easily blow your sun hat away, which is why having a string to tie under your chin is essential. Katie’s partial to this one from Line in the Sand. Made from a stiff material, the brim on this hat won’t flop over into your eyes or obstruct your vision in any way, and the leather cord will keep the hat from taking off if there is a gust of wind.

Remember what we said about dressing up for bed? This takes it to the next level. Wearing a silk nightgown will keep you cool, even if you tend to sweat during sleep, as it’s a naturally thermoregulating material. This one is even chic enough to wear out of the house if you’d like — layer it over a turtleneck or under a jacket as the weather changes.