Coastal Chic Aesthetic: Bringing the Beach to Your Everyday Life

Erin Gore
Jul 1, 2024
3 min read

As we bask in the summer sun and enjoy the beautiful California coastline, I find myself continually inspired by the Coastal Chic aesthetic. This style embodies everything we love about beach living: serene colors, effortless elegance, and tranquil vibes that make us feel at peace.

What is Coastal Chic?

Coastal Chic is more than just a design trend; it’s a way of life. It captures the essence of beach living with a refined twist. Imagine light, airy spaces filled with natural textures, soft colors like seafoam green and sandy beige, and elements that remind you of the ocean, such as driftwood and seashells. It’s about creating a sanctuary that feels both luxurious and laid-back.

My Journey to Finding Calm

For years, I’ve been searching for a sense of calm in my home, but it wasn’t until Summer 2022 that I truly understood how my surroundings could influence my inner peace. During a visit to family in Northern California, I was struck by the perfection of their home. Despite being half the size of our Arizona house, it felt more spacious. Their minimalist lifestyle meant everything had a purpose and function, and even with kids, they kept things tidy and clean day in and day out. That was when the light bulb went off in my brain—I finally found the missing piece to my calmness.

After enjoying our vacation, I returned home with a mission to transform our living space. We donated over 50 boxes to the local donation center that summer and immediately felt a sense of peace come over us. As 2023 continued, we decided to move to California, and the decluttering and purging intensified. By early summer 2023, we bought our California home, which was half the size of our Arizona home. The purging went to the next level, and by the time we moved, we had donated about half of our "stuff." Yet, we never felt freer.

Embracing Coastal Chic

Over the past year of living in Los Angeles, we’ve continued to declutter and simplify our lives. Along the way, we discovered the Coastal Chic aesthetic and fell in love. Now, not only does our home embrace what we call California Coastal, but so do our wardrobe, food choices, and overall lifestyle.

Here’s why this aesthetic speaks to so many of us:

Simplicity and Serenity: Coastal Chic spaces are uncluttered and calming. They provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. For busy moms like us, having a serene space can make a world of difference.

Connection to Nature: Living in California, we’re blessed with incredible natural beauty. Coastal Chic brings the outside in, allowing us to enjoy the beach vibes even when we’re at home. This connection to nature can be grounding and rejuvenating.

Effortless Style: This aesthetic is all about easy elegance. It’s about creating a space that looks beautiful without feeling overdone. As moms, we appreciate anything that combines style with ease, right?

Incorporating Coastal Chic into Your Life

Whether you live by the beach or just dream of it, you can bring Coastal Chic into your home and daily routine. Here are some simple ways to do it:

Decorate with Natural Elements: Use driftwood, seashells, and woven baskets to add texture and a beachy feel to your space.

Embrace a Light Color Palette: Think whites, blues, and soft greens. These colors can make your home feel airy and open.

Prioritize Comfort: Coastal Chic is about feeling relaxed. Choose comfortable furniture, soft linens, and cozy throws.

Find Joy in the Details: Whether it’s a beautiful coastal print, a scented candle, or a piece of sea glass, little touches can bring a sense of joy and calm.

A Call to Find Joy

Ultimately, Coastal Chic is about finding joy amidst the chaos. It’s about creating a space and a lifestyle that brings you peace and happiness. As we navigate the challenges and triumphs of mom life, let’s remember to take a moment to breathe, to appreciate the beauty around us, and to find our own coastal sanctuary.

So, how are you incorporating the Coastal Chic aesthetic into your life? Share your tips and stories in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!