I used to think linen wasn’t for me. It seemed like one of those dreamy fabrics that worked perfectly for women who spent their mornings strolling farmers’ markets in straw hats, their afternoons reading on sun-drenched porches, and their weekends in homes with names like “Sea Glass Cottage.” Elegant? Absolutely. But realistic for my everyday life? Not so much.
Sure, I had flirted with linen over the years—a breezy top here, a tunic there—but I never committed. Linen felt too wrinkly, too delicate, too “not quite me.” That was, until I met the set: a matching linen vest and wide-leg pant combo that completely changed my mind.
I bought it on a whim, thinking it might work for a baby shower in late May, fully expecting to return it. Miami humidity and linen? Sounded like a disaster waiting to happen. But the moment I slipped into it, everything shifted. It was light, breathable, and—dare I say—chic. Suddenly, I wasn’t just wearing an outfit. I was embodying summer. And that’s how I fell head-over-heels for the one coastal grandmother trend I swore I’d skip.
Why Linen Is the Coastal Essential You Didn’t Know You Needed
Linen has become synonymous with the “coastal grandmother” aesthetic—and for good reason. Think Diane Keaton in a breezy white button-down, lounging seaside with a glass of iced tea in hand. It’s not about trends. It’s about ease, timelessness, and embracing that sun-warmed, salt-air kind of living. Wrinkles? They’re part of the charm. Linen doesn’t fuss. It floats.
It says, “I’m relaxed, but still polished.” It’s elegance without the effort. And once you lean into that, it becomes irresistible.
The Set That Started It All
Let’s talk about the outfit. The linen vest and wide-leg pants combo was the surprise hero of my summer wardrobe. The cut was modern, the fit flattering, and the fabric breezy enough to handle a humid Miami afternoon. I wore it with simple slides, a woven bag, and a touch of gold jewelry. It felt grown-up, grounded, and yes—like something that belonged in a Nancy Meyers film.
Best part? I can break the pieces up and style them separately. The vest layers beautifully over a white tank and denim, while the pants are just as lovely with a cotton blouse or cropped tee. It’s the kind of outfit that quietly works overtime.
The Linen Lineup I’m Loving Right Now
Linen Corset Midi Dress
Made from certified European linen, this pink scallop-shell hued dress is the definition of summer romance. Fitted in all the right places, with an A-line skirt that floats like a breeze. It’s one of those pieces that feels special, but not fussy.
Tie-Front Linen Tank
Cropped, relaxed, and just right for layering over everything from wide-leg pants to high-waisted shorts. The tie detail adds a flirty touch, and the fabric? A dream in the heat.
High-Rise Linen Bermuda Shorts
These shorts hit the sweet spot between casual and tailored. The subtle utility vibe keeps them grounded, and when worn with a matching top, they’re pure vacation energy—even if you’re just grabbing groceries.
How I Make Linen Feel Like Me
I used to think linen was shapeless or too bohemian for my personal style. Turns out, it just needed a few styling touches to feel right.
Here’s what works for me:
- Add a raffia clutch to tie in those beachy textures
- Go bold with summer statement earrings for a pop of personality
- Keep makeup fresh and simple—glowy skin, a little gloss, and maybe a pop of coral on the cheeks
- DIY mani-pedis in soft, neutral tones (bonus: linen looks extra polished next to a fresh nail)
- Embrace the wrinkles. Truly. It’s not imperfection, it’s part of the linen lifestyle.
The Takeaway: Linen Isn’t Just a Trend. It’s a Mindset.
Wearing linen felt like giving myself permission to slow down. To enjoy the breeze. To let go of the urge to always look “perfect” and instead feel present. That’s what summer style should be about, right?
Linen isn’t precious or high-maintenance—it’s practical in its own relaxed way. It moves with you, breathes with you, and fits into all the quiet, golden moments of your day.
So yes, I get it now. The coastal grandmother aesthetic isn’t about age or location—it’s about ease, grace, and choosing clothes that let you live beautifully. And for me, linen is the heart of that.
I’m officially a linen girl now. And I think I always was—just waiting for the right moment to discover it.
Now tell me—are you team linen yet? 🌾👒
