15 Outfits That Define Each Summer Aesthetic—Coastal Grandma to Princesscore

The topic of fashion aesthetics is my favourite to cover here at Who What Wear, as it lets me dive into little style worlds that I may not take a look at regularly. It seems like a new term to describe one's style pops up on the internet every month, and while the looks behind each aesthetic aren't revolutionary, coining a term can help others navigate each and pinpoint what works best for their own personal style. Narrowing the looks down to individual pieces can be overwhelming for some, so seeing them stylized for particular lifestyles can make them more accessible, especially for people who have trouble putting outfits together. 

I made my share of predictions for the aesthetics that would rule in 2022, and to my excitement, almost every one has come true. From the Regency-era princesscore look (thanks, Bridgerton) to the outfits that let you channel your inner grandma by the shore, the options this summer are endless. I rounded up outfits for each aesthetic, so whether you want to experiment with each or find your summer match, you can keep on scrolling.

1. Coastal Grandma

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(Image credit: @basicstouch)

A bucket hat and a lightweight matching set are the ideal coastal uniform.

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(Image credit: @HANNAHCROSSKEY)

You can't channel the coastal-grandma aesthetic without linens—that's just the rule.

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(Image credit: @ANOUKYVE)

Everything about this is my ideal summer vibe, from the woven bag to the Birkenstocks. The shoes offer comfort, and the bag offers plenty of space for those farmers-market visits.

Shop the aesthetic:

2. Princesscore

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(Image credit: @selkie)

Go all out with the prettiest floral dress you can find. There's no such thing as too much in the princesscore aesthetic.

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(Image credit: @champagnemani)

If you're keeping it on the casual side, opt for a poplin or ruched dress.

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(Image credit: @daily_sleeper)

Why did clothing need to evolve past ethereal puff-sleeve nightgowns?

Shop the aesthetic:

3. Clean Girl

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(Image credit: @aniyahmorinia)

A pair of classic loafers are a must-have for this aesthetic. Black accessories will keep everything sleek and put-together.

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(Image credit: @jordanrisa)

The best part about the clean-girl look is that the outfits don't require much thinking. Even minimalist pieces like a tank and coordinating pants will give you the look you're going for.

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(Image credit: @ANNELAUREMAIS)

A loose button-up will be your best friend. Even when you're having an off day, it'll be the piece that keeps you looking like you're at 100%.

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4. Balletcore

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(Image credit: @vivian.yrl)

Add a structured coat and sleek sunglasses to take the your look from ballet class to brunch.

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(Image credit: @bellathomas)

Not only are ballet clothes on-trend, but they're also comfortable. Think comfy cardigans, easy flats, and leggings galore.

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(Image credit: @sofiamcoelho)

Boleros aren't going anywhere. Just throw one on over a tank, and you're good to go.

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5. Prep School

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(Image credit: @chrissyford)

Now, you can find preppy-inspired sweaters everywhere, and they're more versatile than you think. Simply add a pair of relaxed trousers, and you've got yourself a Princess Diana–approved ensemble.

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(Image credit: @thatgirlyusra)

If you don't want an outfit to fall too much on the preppy side, keep the cool factor with accessories that match your personality more, like a leather jacket or platform shoes, for example.

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(Image credit: @christietyler)

Not only do baseball hats solve bad hair days, but they also act as the perfect accessory for any preppy or sporty outfit.

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Next Up, 6 Festival Ready Outfits You'll Actually Want To Wear After

Associate Fashion Editor
Yusra Siddiqui is an editor who resides in New Jersey but bounces between the suburbs and NYC. (She's a Jersey girl at heart.) After interning at Who What Wear in 2019, she found her way to the team after graduating from LIM College in 2022 with a fashion media degree. She's also spent time writing and working for publications such as Fashionista, Coveteur, and Nylon, but she always knew that Who What Wear was where she was meant to be. When she's on the job, she's perusing runway shows, analyzing the latest thing fellow Gen Zers are up to on the internet, and sharing what she can about the modest-fashion market. You can also catch her dabbling in entertainment, talking about the costume choices of the latest Netflix series or diving deeper into how the plotline affects the viewers in a myriad of ways. Lastly, she likes to create content for Who What Wear's TikTok. Her personal time is spent doing similar but also different things—deep diving into almost every new TV show (Bridgerton, Gilmore Girls, and Stranger Things are favorites), planning her next local getaway (whenever that may be), and reading the latest Emily Henry or Sally Rooney novel in one sitting.