The fashion world is embracing a trend that's been simmering in the background for years: Granny style. This summer, the street style set is declaring that classic wardrobe staples from our grandparents' closets are officially back on the menu. It's a style that feels both nostalgic and surprisingly modern, offering a chance to rewear clothing with character. But what exactly is Granny style? It's all about timeless pieces that pair polish with practicality. Elegant blouses with delicate details, ruffles aplenty, structured handbags, and shoes that prioritise comfort. Designers from Miu Miu to Chloé have embraced retro silhouettes in recent seasons, with the Miu Miu apron dress dividing the fashion set and voluminous checked dresses at Chloé that your Granny would consider a risqué piece of nightwear. Simone Rocha also followed suit with midi skirts and knitwear pairings that could have been plucked straight from your grandparents' wardrobe. The secret to Granny style? Pieces must be highly functional. Think handbags with multiple pockets for stashing crossword puzzles and Werther's Originals, top-handle bags inspired by Queen Elizabeth II, espadrille wedges that feel orthopaedic, and classic low block-heel shoes that you can stomp around town all day in. Grandma skirts? Midi length and awkward. Bonus points if pleated or a stiff material like classic denim. And of course, embrace an excess of ditsy florals. To style your grandma pieces, the key is in the pairing. Team your frumpy midi skirt (bonus points if it's denim à la Karlie Kloss) with a crop top. Reach for baggy jeans, micro minis, and boob tubes - items that your grandparents would highly disapprove of to ensure balance. The best Granny style pieces to buy now include the Ruthie floral-print satin-jacquard shirt, the Sophie handbag from Cambridge Satchel Company, Sugarplum Slingback Block Heel Shoes in Taupe Suedette from ASOS, St Michael Vintage Linen Blend Skirt in New Olive Green from Oxfam, Pescura Flat Flex Wooden Sandals from Scholl, Crepe Tie Neck Ruffle Blouson Sleeve Blouse from Ghost, Signature Silk Neck Bow from Aspinal, Clarissa II Quad Desert Rodeo Classic Pull Up Leather Sandals from Dr. Martens, Frank Usher Vintage Sequin Jacket from eBay, and Cosette Short from If Only If. Granny style is all about embracing the past while staying firmly in the present, offering a chance to rewear clothing with character and a touch of nostalgia.
