Eccentric Aunt Spring Is 2026’s Answer to the Coastal Grandma Aesthetic

Paging Hilda and Zelda

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Eccentric Aunt Spring 2026
Vivian Zink/Retna USA via ZUMA Wire/ABC/IMDb

Some years ago, everyone wanted to dress like a retiree with a beach house. Cozy cable-knits, crisp button-downs, tasteful neutrals and nautical stripes galore. Think Diane Keaton in a Nancy Meyers movie. But for spring 2026, we’re seeing a kookier, kitschier and more colorful character start to curate our closets: the eccentric aunt. 

Pop culture is full of them—and they usually come in pairs. Hilda and Zelda Spellman, aunts of Sabrina, the Teenage Witch. Aunt Frances and Aunt Jet, Practical Magic’s midnight margarita makers. And Aunt Lily and Aunt Vivian, style icons of ABC’s twee classic, Pushing Daisies. But even Friends’ Phoebe Buffay fits the bill (especially after giving birth to her own niece and nephews in the show—talk about unconventional).

Stockard Channing, Dianne Wiest in Practical Magic
Warner Bros/Kobal/Shutterstock

Their wardrobes are whimsical and a little witchy, with pops of late ‘90s neon (a trend we’re already seeing jump off the runway), animal prints and flowy layers. Mixed patterns and sumptuous textures are a matter of course, while funky embellishments are practically a requirement. Man-repelling? Maybe. (After all, many are confirmed bachelorettes.)  But there’s something distinctly glamorous and worldly about rocking the fashion that reflects their free spirits. 

Eccentric Aunt Spring 2026: Aunt Hilda, Sabrina, Aunt Zelda
Randy Holmes/Retna USA via ZUMA Wire/Shutterstock

As the style zeitgeist continues to rebel against copy-and-paste “clean girl” minimalism, bold individuality is in. And no one does it better than your mom’s kooky sister. Ahead, shop 12 pieces to embrace your own eccentric aunt era—no actual nieces and nephews required.

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Bright color? Luxurious brocade? Eye-catching silhouette? Check, check and check. This metallic-threaded top is a sophisticated standout one could pair with trousers, jeans or the matching skirt

Feathery, faux fur trims are an eccentric aunt staple, and this cool cardigan totally nails the vibe. The ribbed knit has a medium weight, per the brand, making it great for transitional spring temps—and multiple buyers have given it a 5-star rating for its quality, comfort and statement-making look.

Between the shimmery celestial print and see-through mesh fabric, this magical top has all the makings of a Spellman family favorite. Layer a cami underneath or a slip dress on top for extra coverage (and a look that nods to our favorite witches of the ‘90s).

Dreamy florals and bell sleeves give this elegant maxi a boho twist. It’s made of lightweight viscose, so it should stay breathable through the warmer weather. Plus, it’s versatile enough to dress down with boots for a psychic reading or up with heels for a formal wedding. 

Funky pants and quirky aunts go hand-in-hand—well, leg-in-leg. Let your inner wild child roar with these leopard-print jeans, constructed with a high waist and 100 percent cotton denim for a supportive fit where it counts. 

Whether you pair it with the leopard jeans above or simply don it with a silk skirt and stack of gold necklaces, you’re bound to get plenty of mileage out of this zebra tank that happens to be both on trend and cool-aunt approved.

7. Circus by Sam Edelman Juliana Sandal

Circus by Sam Edelman

Everything from the sculptural kitten heel to the sequin accents screams “the fun aunt.” And not only does one buyer describe these slip-on sandals as “heavenly,” they also add that they’re wide-foot friendly. 

More mesh, more florals. Just add ruffles. This blouse feels retro and romantic; definitely something your garden-frolicking godmother would wear to pick flowers for her at-home apothecary. 

Tassel details and luxurious shawls are trending this season, but they’ve never not been for the most whimsical woman you know. If you care to channel Stevie Nicks or the ladies from Practical Magic, nab this burnout velvet kimono that can make even the most casual jeans-and-T-shirt ensemble seem mystical and mysterious. 

Who says you can’t let your eccentric aunt shine through in a corporate setting? For the wannabe witch who works in an office, this unique spin on a classic button-down. While it’s still totally professional, the puff sleeves and corset-inspired bodice give it a fanciful touch—fitting for those who don’t want to fit in. 

Bring on the fringe. This asymmetrical skirt, complete with gorgeous jacquard detailing, looks like an antique tablecloth you’d spread out your tarot cards on. For the unconventional fashionista, there could be no better compliment (or reason to buy it).

Everyone’s been coveting vintage (or vintage-inspired) beaded bags lately. If you’ve come up empty on your latest thrifting trip, this pretty little drawstring purse supplies just as much charm. And, yes, it’s the perfect size for carrying your compact, credit cards and crystals—you know, the essentials.


stephanie maida

Senior Commerce Editor

  • Oversees PureWow's coverage of sales and deals, celebrity commerce and new launches across categories
  • Has worked as a writer and editor for 10+ years
  • Studied journalism at New York University

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