Grandmacore: What it is, and how you can build your wardrobe with it

What is Grandmacore?

TikTok videos tagged with #grandmacore garnered over 251 million views. Clearly, it’s a trend steadily gaining traction over the past few years.

As the name suggests, the trend draws inspiration from the stereotypical style of dress associated with grandmothers. Think wardrobe staples prioritising comfort, simplicity and a nostalgic vibe. Knuckle dusters, comfy jumpers, knitted accessories, often in muted soft pastel colours like browns and purples. 

More than just what you wear, Grandmacore is an aesthetic, a subculture, a lifestyle that can extend into other parts of your life, from home decor to pastimes. 

Why is it increasing in popularity?

Grandmacore's nostalgic celebration of a simpler, more comforting time has inspired many, contributing to its rise in popularity. Similar to trends like cottagecore, it embraces vintage aesthetics, handmade textiles, and a return to traditional values. The increasing popularity of vintage clothing and thrifting has helped grandmacore as well. It's made the vintage-inspired silhouettes characterising the trend much more accessible to the masses. 

There are similarities with grandpacore, which draws on similar influences. While grandpa ore will instead feature pieces like sweater vests or suspenders, there’s also plenty of overlap like with the common use of knitted cardigans. 

As with all social media trends, grandmacore has courted its share of controversy as well. There have been those who argue that grandmacore generalises the style of older ladies. 

Grandmacore has found traction in Asia as well, with the celebration of the styles and clothing items often worn by Chinese grandmothers. It's become especially popular in Hong Kong and in Mainland China. 

Whatever your thoughts are, Grandmacore has made itself a player in today’s fashion landscape, spreading beyond the annals of TikTok into high fashion, as with the Miu Miu 2023 Fall show. 

In this article, we look at some of the items that you too can add to your wardrobe, to give it a little grandma makeover. 

Souffle Yarn Long Sleeve Short Cardigan, $49.90, Uniqlo

Credit: Uniqlo

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A cosy knitted cardigan in soft pastel colours or classic patterns like Fair Isle or argyle is a grandmacore staple. Comfortable and nostalgic, it'll add a touch of vintage charm to your outfits.

Floral Round Neck Midi Tea Dress, $99.90, Marks & Spencer

Credit: Marks & Spencers

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The classic neckline and modest length of a round-neck tea dress exude timeless elegance and versatility, making it a staple for those seeking nostalgic charm in their wardrobe,

Fiona Mary Janes, $43.90, DMK

Credit: DMK

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A pair of Mary Janes, with their low heels and rounded toes, scream grandma. Whether adorned with buckles, bows, or simple straps, Mary Janes adds a sweet retro touch to your outfit.

Minimalist Pearl-fect Necklace, $169, SK Jewellery

Credit: SK Jewellery

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A symbol of refined femininity, pearl necklaces instantly elevate any outfit with a timeless look of elegance and sophistication.

Ciara Button Tweed Jacket, $89.9, Lainecurve

Credit: Lainecurve

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Tweed jackets in earthy tones or houndstooth patterns are timelessly elegant. You can consider layering them on top of existing outfits to add some classiness to your look.

Not Long Ago Shirt, $99, Dear Samfu

Credit: Dear Samfu

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If you want an Asain take on grandmacore, look no further than a 'sam'. Part of the matching samfu outfits many from prior generations wore, these shirts exude elegance and cultured chic.