There’s something deliciously moody about autumns spent on the coast. Even more so when one enjoys them while ensheathed in sumptuous knitwear, sailor stripes and slouchy silhouettes.
Fresh beachside strolls call for warming layers and waterproofs, while at-home mooching requires swaddle-worthy textures, spanning insulating sheep's wool to cosy cashmere and plushly padded slippers .
While yarn-laden coastal aesthetics are an inevitability for seaside dwellers come September, the style doesn’t tend to translate to city living. That was until the fashion circuit decided to intervene, borrowing from the look - now dubbed ‘coastal grandmother’ by the aforementioned - and given a high fashion makeover.
The catwalks were saturated with on-theme looks for autumn/winter 2026. Dries Van Noten debuted kitschy, colourful knits teamed with duffle coats, thick socks and longline shirts, while Tods opted for oversized raincoats in vibrant mustard hues.
© Imaxtree
© Imaxtree
© Imaxtree
© Imaxtree
© Imaxtree
© Imaxtree
© Imaxtree
© Imaxtree
Prada paired knee-length skirts with sunset-hued crocheted scarves and hefty layers, while Chloé championed heavily shouldered tailoring, styled with floral blouses, flouncing chiffon skirts and with ruffled tiers, and wiry tresses that tapped into the frazzled English woman aesthetic.
© GC Images
© Getty Images
The trend follows in the footsteps (pardon the pun) of previous fashion favourites: fisherman sandals a la The Row, plaid lumberjacket shirts, nautical Breton stripes, sailor collared jackets and so on. If you need inspiration, simply have a gander at Katie Holmes’ recent street style; eclectic coastal grandmother is very much her vibe when mapping the streets of her native New York.
Embrace the playful look below and shop our favourite coastal grandmother must-have pieces for the season ahead.
Shop the Coastal Grandmother trend:
Wool-Blend Duffel Coat
MAX&Co.
Defined by its distinctive silhouette - a large hood, a straight, shapeless fit and classic wooden toggle button-up design, the duffle is a mainstay of winter fashion. Our pick? This olive gem courtesy of MAX&Co.
Marinelle Fairisle Knitted Cardigan
Hush
There are classic jumpers, slouchy sweaters, and then there’s the Fairisle jumper - the knitwear cut that never goes out of style. Crafted from a wool-mohair blend, this navy option will ensure you stay toasty throughout the cooler months ahead.
Marena Tartan Midi Skirt
Barbour
Barbour’s Marena tartan midi skirt brings a heritage-inspired touch to autumn dressing, with its classic check pattern offering an easy way to embrace countryside chic without compromising on contemporary appeal.
Fisherman Sandals
Gucci
Available in four tempting colourways, Gucci's fisherman sandals give the practical beachside staple a high fashion makeover, combining a chunky rubber silhouette with a nostalgic 90s look. Wear yours with chunky cashmere socks for maximum impact.
Brown and Green Tartan Collared Relaxed Fit Car Coat
Nobody's Child
Nobody’s Child’s popular Diola coat puts a playful spin on traditional countryside style, pairing a brown and green tartan check with contrasting khaki trims, turned-up cuffs and a relaxed, longline silhouette.
Burnished Light Knitted Cardigan
Seasalt Cornwall
Seasalt Cornwall’s knitted cardigan is a cosy layering staple, offering a relaxed silhouette, a snug tactile finish and striking stripe detailing in a sea-inspired green hue.
Plaid Bermuda Skirt
Gerard Deral
Gerard Darel’s Mora skirt delivers a polished take on rural dressing, combining a pleated silhouette with an easy, relaxed feel. Style with leather boots for an elevated, off-duty look.
House Polo Cardigan
JW Anderson
A little bit preppy, a little bit eccentric, JW Anderson’s chestnut brown polo cardigan gives traditional knitwear a thoroughly modern makeover. Think heritage charm with a mischievous, luxury twist.
Rubber Marsh Stamp Low Boots
Burberry
Stomp through the season in style with Burberry's Marsh Boots. Featuring a low silhouette that slips neatly under jeans and a flicker of the brand's iconic Nova check, these puppies are a playful addition to your weekend wardrobe.
Sprig Jacquard Lofty Alpaca Blend Sweater
Toast
A little woodland whimsy goes a long way. Toast's Sprig jacquard sweater pairs a cosy alpaca-blend knit with an earthy, nature-inspired pattern, making it a characterful alternative to the usual autumn jumper.
Women's Cashmere Wristwarmers
Brora
For plush wintertime accessories including scarves, gloves and hats, Brora remains our first port of call. Available in a variety of wearable hues, these fingerless gloves are destined for scenic seaside meanders.
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