New Coastal Micro-trends: Fisherman Aesthetic, Sardinecore, and More
On this episode of Seated with Furniture Row, Barb and Jessa guide us through the evolving world of coastal interiors—from serene grandmother vibes to playfully adventurous “sardinecore.”
Ready to update your own space? Here’s how the conversation (and our favorite product picks) can help you sail into this look.
What Is the “New Nautical?”
The latest take on coastal style is as much about history and playfulness as it is about a breezy, relaxed vibe. It leans nautical. It leans fishermen, and it’s very playful and fun and rooted in history. Think weathered woods, aged brass, and whimsical touches like rope accents or even food-inspired décor.
Coastal vs. Nautical vs. Fisherman Aesthetic
While each of these ocean-inspired styles shares a breezy spirit, Barb and Jessa break down how coastal, nautical, and fisherman aesthetics each tell their own distinct story—from pastel serenity to adventurous, sea-weathered charm—so you can easily pinpoint (and blend) the vibe that truly feels like home.
- Classic Coastal: You’ll spot soft neutrals, breezy textiles, and the skirted Windham Sofa in ticking-stripe fabric—a callback to Nancy Meyers' films and “coastal grandmother” comfort.
- Nautical: Bolder stripes, sharper rope details, brass lamps, and a dose of utility. The Estrada Blue Striped Dining Chair echoes sailor uniforms, while the Malden Rectangle Dining Table subtly evokes ship hardware with its metal base.
- Fisherman Aesthetic (“Sardinecore”): This trend draws on rugged textures and kitschy fun—cable-knit throws, vintage fishing art, and playful pops of color. The Indigo Chunky Double Knit Handmade Throw tossed over a sofa is reminiscent of a hearty fisherman’s sweater.
“This swaps the polished beach house… for more of a rugged maritime adventure. It has its practicality with a sense of humor.” — Jessa
How to Incorporate Nautical Trends—With Product Inspiration
How to Style:
- Launch your coastal seating area with a striped centerpiece—think the Windham Loveseat or Sofa—for instant breezy charm that captures the essence of seaside living.
- For texture and eco-conscious style, layer the Blue Recycled Water Bottle Pillow onto your couch.
- The Hudson Bend Coffee Table's reclaimed wood and practical wheels are perfect for rolling out snacks or sardine-themed serving ware at a get-together.
- Layer up your living space with the rustic Antiqua Round Coffee Table and the Danica Beach Sofa Table with rope accents—together, they bring a relaxed, collected-by-the-coast look that’s perfect for get-togethers big or small.
- Try the Colors II Dining Chair in bright red for a statement at your breakfast nook—Barb loves it paired with fun wall art and layered blue textiles, like the Joplin Indigo Rug.
- The Willow Dining Chair provides a cottage-by-the-sea feel with warm, weathered wood, while the tall Gusman Floor Mirror in Mineral adds vertical drama with maritime character.
- Accent your powder room or reading nook with the Mesosphere 65” Grey Cabinet for subtle blue-grey storage, or the Granada Strands Rug in Ivory picks up rope and wicker notes from the rest of your décor.
Shop the products here!
Other Actionable Tips — DIY and Decorating
- Rope Accents: Try rope as curtain tiebacks or frame a mirror for instant nautical vibes.
- Creative Utility: Upgrade basic flowerpots or lamp bases with glued jute rope. Even the Dania Beach TV Stand shows how built-in rope details add subtle but impactful character.
- Playful Touches: Mix food- or fish-themed plates for summer dinner parties—on the Hudson Bened Coffee Table or a smaller accent table like the Electra Table Lamp’s sidekick surface.
Balancing Trends with Timelessness
To keep your space from feeling over-themed, balance playful sardinecore details with classic elements—a Blue and White Pillow layered on a stripe sofa, or the moody blue Eno Heriz Rug beneath lived-in leather chairs. Rotate in bold “dopamine” décor pieces seasonally, but let utility furniture—like the Malden Rectangle Dining Table with its subtle metalwork or the adaptable Dawson Swivel Accent Chair—anchor your room year round.
Final Takeaways
No matter if you lean into the airy charm of classic coastal style, the adventurous spirit of nautical motifs, or the playful, lived-in vibe of sardinecore and fisherman-inspired decor, the key is making the trend your own in a way that feels authentic to you.
As Jessa reminds us, “Anything that’s a trend, if you incorporate it in a quality way, it can be timeless.” Relax, kick your feet up, and let your home’s seaside story evolve right along with you.