The 'Eclectic Grandpa' TikTok Trend, Explained
With so many trends taking over TikTok, it's hard to keep up with the newest and latest. Rather than get overwhelmed by the choices, we love that we can pick and choose our faves according to our tastes — and the eclectic grandpa movement is one we're seeing everywhere. In 2022, the coastal grandmother aesthetic was all the rage. Coined by TikTok user Lex Nicoleta, the coastal grandmother look is described as something Diane Keaton would wear in a Nancy Meyers movie. Think mock turtlenecks and khakis worn with loafers. Dressing like a coastal grandmother became so popular that even Anne Hathaway embraced the look.
Now, the trends have shifted to dressing like an eclectic grandpa, and TikTok views back this up. Some videos with the hashtag #eclecticgrandpa already have more than a million views despite the trend being so new. According to Pinterest Predicts, 2024 will be all about putting together a 'fit like your favorite oddball grandfather, with searches on the social platform for "grandpa core" and "grandpa style" being up by 65% and 60%, respectively. Basically, Harry Styles was way ahead of his time when he started wearing pearl necklaces and quirky sweater vests a couple of years ago. If you want to get in on this trend, all you need to do is mix and match some pieces you probably already have in your closet.
What you need to look like an eclectic grandpa
The eclectic grandpa trend is not just about borrowing your Pop-Pop's college sweatshirt. Sure, the vintage aspect adds to your overall 'fit, but you need to get kookier than that. As TikTok user Girlmeetcoutoure describes, you'll need "quirky sweaters, cardigans, and also vests. Extra points if the sweater is funny or [has] a dad joke on it." You also can't wear enough plaid, and you'll need some sort of grandpa-like headwear, such as an old baseball cap or a beanie.
Don't forget about your feet, either. Footwear is an important element of the eclectic grandpa trend, so you'll want a pair of loafers and loud socks. Don't worry about matching your clothing — if you think your items look off and don't go together, you're on the right track.
If you need some visual inspiration, celebs like Jenna Bush Hager are embracing the eclectic grandpa style. As reported by People, she debuted her take on the trend in "Today with Hoda & Jenna" by wearing a colorful patterned jacket, denim ankle-length flares, and black loafers. "I was never a 'Coastal Cowgirl.' I tried to be a 'Coastal Grandma,' but I really wasn't one," Hager exclaimed. "All along there was an Eclectic Grandpa hiding in me." And, if you want to go all-in on this trend, you don't have to just stop with your clothing — the eclectic grandpa craze is even taking over interior design.
Decorate your home with grandpacore elements
Remember going over to your grandfather's home and smelling the rich leather sofa or cuddling against his fuzzy throw pillows? You can totally replicate those feels by styling your house using the eclectic grandpa aesthetic. For instance, use plaid blankets as accent pieces on your sofa or armchair and incorporate dark, wooden decor around your home. Cozy pillows with funky patterns are also great, as are glass ashtrays. Like with your wardrobe, pieces should look varied, as if you've accumulated them over the years.
Meanwhile, your furniture should look inviting. On this, designer Chris Jovanelly told Better Homes & Gardens, "Grandpa chic rooms should be well designed, but guests shouldn't be afraid to sit down." Like with your wardrobe, don't worry about the furniture being too matchy-matchy. "Grandpa chic is an acquired look, meaning all pieces were acquired over time. Styles are mixed and contain traditional and rich elements," Jovanelly added.
The important thing to remember is to have fun with the eclectic grandpa trend. Hit your local thrift stores and browse through estate sales. You never know what treasures you'll find, and we bet there's a good story behind anything you happen to score.