Coastal Grandfather Energy: Why the Fisherman Aesthetic Is This Year’s Hottest Mom Trend

DISCLOSURE

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There comes a time in every woman’s life when she must choose between looking like she’s trying too hard… and looking like she inherited a seaside cottage from an uncle who never smiled and exclusively wore wool.

Guess which one we’re choosing?

Welcome to Coastal Grandfather Energy

It’s the vibe that says:

“I own exactly two sweaters, both smell faintly of sea salt, and no, I will not be attending your themed brunch.”

The fisherman aesthetic—also known as Coastal Grandfather Energy—is the quietly commanding look of a retired sea captain who gardens in the morning and judges your footwear in the afternoon. And yes, darling, you absolutely can channel this energy while packing snacks and correcting math homework.

Here’s how.

1. Start With the Iconic Striped Shirt (Mais évidemment)

If you don’t own a proper marinière, what exactly have you been doing with your life?

Look for a boatneck or long-sleeve Breton stripe in navy and white. Slightly oversized, preferably French-made, and best paired with the knowledge that Picasso wore the same thing while making questionable romantic decisions.

Style Tip: French-tuck it into high-waisted trousers or leave it loose over linen shorts. Add espresso. Glare into the middle distance.

striped top / high waisted trousers / linen shorts

2. Layer Like You Just Stepped Off a Boat in Saint-Malo

Cardigans. Waxed jackets. A pea coat you found in a Parisian vintage shop—or pretended you did. These pieces are functional, timeless, and slightly too warm for the weather (because suffering = style).

Coastal Grandfather Motto: “If it doesn’t look like I’ve had it since 1974, I don’t want it.”

striped cardigan / pea coat / waxed jacket

3. Get Textural, Not Trendy

Think chunky knits, faded cottons, rope accessories, sea-washed rustic denim. Leave the sequins to someone who still thinks a pool party counts as glamour.

Bonus points if your clothing looks like it’s been mended at least once (or is pretending to be).

cotton striped dress / knit fish sweater / linen fish dress / sea washed denim / rope bucket bag

4. Shoes: No One’s Running, and That’s the Point

This isn’t athleisure. It’s “I walk the harbor at dawn” energy.

• Leather sandals (slightly scuffed)

• Espadrilles (worn with disdain)

• Rubber boots (yes, even in sunshine)

Comfortable, classic, and deeply unconcerned with your pedicure. That’s the power move.

leather sandals / espadrilles / red rubber boots

5. Facial Expression: Somewhere Between Indifferent and Judging

The true hallmark of the fisherman aesthetic isn’t the clothes—it’s the attitude.

• Squint like you're trying to see the coast of Normandy.

• Scowl like someone asked you to download another school app.

• Smile rarely, but when you do, make it meaningful. (Think Catherine Deneuve in a Chanel ad, not your sister-in-law at Disney.)

Final Thoughts and Embracing the Existential Sea Salt

Darling, Coastal Grandfather Energy is about embracing your inner curmudgeon with couture confidence. You’ve survived sleepless nights, school meetings, and grocery store tantrums—surely you’ve earned the right to dress like you’ve been emotionally weathered by the sea.

So pull on your stripes, wrap yourself in an oversized cardigan, and let the world know: “I’m not here to impress you. I’m here to be left alone and look expensive while doing it.”

With sea spray, sarcasm, and just a hint of fish guts,
The Glamtorious Mrs.