How to rock the sardine girl summer trend with subtle coastal charm

No one could have predicted that fish would inspire fashion, but the quirky ‘Sardine Girl Summer’ trend is making an unprecedented splash. From its humble beginnings as a niche internet phenomenon to now being a prominent summer style, it’s clear that the sardine-inspired aesthetic is here to stay.

What started as a playful nod to vintage sardine tins and seaside treasures has now evolved into a full-fledged fashion movement. Brands like H&M and Indian label Vin are embracing the trend with collections that blend coastal charm and nautical vibes. Let’s dive into how you can wear this unique look while staying chic and stylish.

What is sardine girl summer?

At its core, Sardine Girl Summer is about channeling the laid-back, coastal vibe of a life spent near the sea. It draws inspiration from the nostalgia of old-fashioned fisherman style, mixed with the timeless elegance of a coastal grandmother.

While it’s tempting to jump in with a full mermaid look, the secret to the sardine girl summer aesthetic is being low-key and refined. Rather than overwhelming your outfit with literal fish references, go for small touches like fish prints, shell jewellery and washed-out fabrics that evoke the relaxed, sun-bleached energy of a day at the beach.

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Key elements of sardine girl summer style

Coastal textures:

A big part of the sardine girl aesthetic is incorporating beachy textures that immediately transport you to the shore. Look for fabrics like raffia, crochet and linen which feel breathable and relaxed. These materials are perfect for summer, evoking the spirit of beach vacations and seaside strolls.

Subtle Fish Prints:

Fish may have been the initial inspiration for this trend, but that doesn’t mean you need to wear an entire seafood platter. Subtle prints like those found in H&M’s ‘sardine collection’ are the perfect way to incorporate this theme into your look.

Fish motifs can be seen on dresses, tops and accessories, offering a playful yet refined touch to your wardrobe. For those hesitant about going full-on fish, a small fish print on a scarf or bag can be an easy and fashionable entry point.

Vintage coastal influence:

The sardine girl aesthetic has a distinct vintage appeal, with nods to old-school fisherman style and classic nautical themes. The coastal grandma vibe is key here: think breezy dresses, lightweight cardigans, and items that have that worn-in feel.

Accessories with a Twist:

No sardine girl outfit is complete without accessories that tie it all together. Fish-themed bags, like the ones offered by Indian brand Vin, are the perfect example of this trend. These bags take the sardine concept and transform it into a wearable piece of art, making them both functional and fashion-forward.

How to style sardine girl summer

Keep It Subtle:

To embrace the sardine girl summer trend, you don’t need to go full nautical or fishy. Instead, keep it subtle with a few key pieces. A fish-print dress or blouse paired with simple accessories can create a perfectly balanced outfit.

Embrace the coastal grandma look:

Channel your inner coastal grandma by mixing classic pieces with a relaxed, sophisticated edge. Soft, oversized sweaters, high-waisted pants and slip-on sandals are great choices for creating a look that’s both comfortable and chic. Don’t forget to accessorize with a simple straw bag and perhaps a fish-themed brooch or earring to complete the look.

Embrace the sardine girl summer trend today with subtle fish prints, raffia textures, and coastal vibes. It’s the perfect way to look chic and relaxed all season long.