More than just “coastal grandma,” this vintage-inspired style is the hottest new trend on Instagram and TikTok.
Fashionistas are taking a leaf out of Grandpa's book…or should I say wardrobe!
It's all about embracing retro and whimsical style, mixing and matching patterns, and having fun with layering.
This comfort-oriented trend has led to an explosion of terms related to the viral fashion trend on Pinterest.
Like most fashion trends, things come and go. Sweaters from Grandpa's Wardrobe Her vests, striped shirts, and brightly colored socks are officially cool.
Here's how fashion experts are embracing this trend…
Emily Regan, 24, fashion assistant
- Coat, £69.99, Bershka – Buy Now
- Blazer, £54.99, H&M – Buy Now
- Pants, £49.99, ZARA – Buy Now
- Bag, £65, Marks & Spencer M&S Collection – Buy Now
- Shirt, £22.99, ZARA – Buy Now
- Loafers, £110, Borden – Buy Now
It seems that I have come to the era of grandpa core. I really love the ease of it…anything goes!
I don't fully embrace that aesthetic every day, but it definitely makes me want to have more fun and try different outfit combinations.
I've made a conscious effort to put together pieces that can be worn with clothes I already have in my fairly neutral wardrobe and that will outlast this current trend.
These loafers from Boden give you that classic Gucci vibe, but without the super expensive price tag.
Pastel colors are also expected to be popular this season, so I added a pop of color with pants from Zara and a gorgeous bag from M&S.
Combine tweedy checks and silk stripes in this shirt and blazer combination, and tie it all together with this dreamy trench.
Clemmie Fieldsend, 33, fashion editor
- Bag, £27.99, H&M – Buy Now
- Jacket, £165 and more stories – buy now
- Jumper, £34, Next – Buy Now
- Jeans, £55, Marks & Spencer signature – buy now
- Loafers, £59.99.Office – Buy Now
- Shirt, £25.99, ZARA – Buy Now
What I love most about the eclectic grandpa trend is how comfortable it is.
Cozy textures, loose silhouettes, and a good pair of shoes tick all my style boxes.
I'm not a big fan of bold prints or bright colors, so my trendy looks are all about feel, or texture.
I love this chunky cable knit from Next, with its deep V neckline, perfect for layering over a shirt or cotton white T-shirt.
& Other Stories like this style of “farbur”, or fake barbour. Pair it with loafers for a very versatile look. I wear this to work and to walks to the country pub.
Abbey McHale, 29, Deputy Fashion Editor
- Jeans, £95, Align – Buy Now
- Socks, £3.90, Uniqlo – Buy Now
- Blouse, £34.99, Monki – Buy Now
- Jumper, £19.99, H&M – Buy Now
- Trainers, £90, Adidas – Buy Now
- Cap, £15, Adanora – Buy Now
The look I created is red socks, a baseball cap, and dark blue jeans, giving it a sunny Florida grandpa vibe.
I'm currently loving big collars, so I'm wearing this blouse from Monki under my jumper so the collar peeks out.
Red socks give an even more fun pop of color to the green sweatshirt.
What I love about all of these items is that when worn together they can really channel the grandpa-core TikTok trend, but when worn separately they become great wardrobe staples that can be worn season after season. That's it.
Tracy Lee Thayer, 52, fashion director
- Trainers, £80, Adidas – Buy Now
- White T-shirt, £30, COS – Buy Now
- Side striped trousers, £40, River Island – buy now
- Vest, £195, Ganni – Buy Now
- Socks, £8.99, Adanora – Buy Now
- Aviator glasses, £35, more stories – buy now
- Jacket, £135 and more stories – buy now
Some of the young people I went to school with may now be grandfathers, and think of the 80s and 90s trends that are sweeping fashion, beauty, and culture in general these days. No wonder “eclectic grandpa” is trending on social media.
Anyone who's been to a hacienda back in the day already knows the outfits that fit right in on-trend: smiley-face tank tops, track bottoms, and old-school Adidas trainers.
Millennials and Gen Z love an eclectic grandpa, but can a 52-year-old, who technically might have grandchildren, be able to do that?
Well, actually!
Most middle-aged mums I know love wide-leg track pants and can choose from the big hitters on the high street.Elastic waist is comfortable and practical, yet stylish
Pair it with a white T-shirt, a fun tank top, and a cropped trench to smarten up your entire look.
Then just add some cool sunnies.
