How to Nail “Dad Style”
Whether you’re paying tribute to your Old Man or slowly morphing into him yourself, these quintessential items are key to nailing the look.
While they might not be up-to-speed on today’s latest trends — or care much about them, for that matter — the way dads dress has never been such a hot topic as it is today.
The image of the quintessential dad in clothing terms falls somewhere between Hank Hill from King of the Hill and tech icon Steve Jobs of Apple Inc., at least according to popular culture.
Although not traditionally considered fashionable, one can’t ignore that the “dad look” is having a moment right now. For those looking for fatherly style cues, here’s how to replicate the look yourself (no children necessary).
Unassuming yet endlessly useful, thoroughly well-worn yet still perfectly functional, the dad hat is synonymous with fatherhood — and who can argue?
Fathers around the world have earned their title's inclusion in the colloquially accepted nomenclature of this specific style of headwear.
If you don’t care about mitigating the harmful, long-term side effects of the sun’s powerful rays, are you truly a dad at heart?
Whether he calls them polos, polo shirts, or even golf shirts, every dad can agree these versatile-yet-comfy collared knits are a keystone item in his wardrobe — and it’s easy to see why.
These can be dressed up to wear to work or special events with a pair of chinos or tailored trousers (or even worn with a full suit) just as easily as they can be dressed down with a pair of shorts for family vacations or mowing the lawn.
If he’s not in a polo, there’s a damn good chance he’s wearing one of these.
For days when he wants to look a little snazzier (like during visits with the in-laws or his bi-monthly meet-up with the bowling team), a short-sleeve button-up is the natural choice.
Hawaiian shirts are the clear favourite in this category, though other prints and patterns are equally acceptable.
Classic, approachable, and no-nonsense; a classic pair of light-wash blue jeans represents all the same qualities Dad does.
They go with everything, they don’t raise any eyebrows, and they’re his go-to pants for a backyard BBQ, classic rock concert, or casual Friday.
If you want to get your dad-core on, assume character by confidently stepping into these one leg at a time.
Up until recently, New Balance had cornered the market on these iconic dad sneakers, however, following in their footsteps are a multitude of dad-approved brands now bringing the chunky white shoes to fathers’ feet everywhere.
Comfort is the name of the game here; arch support, foot cushioning, and easy on-and-off action are the hallmarks of dad’s favourite shoes — though don’t overlook the versatile white colour.
It doesn’t matter if they get covered in lawn clippings, beer spills, or ballpark hotdog drippings, his dedication to keeping them sparkling clean is only surpassed by his dedication to tell jokes that simultaneously make your eyes roll and embarrassment swell.
