Images: Imaxtree
Fashion has a new style icon: dear old dad. None of us expected to see cargo shorts, baseball caps, grandpa sneakers and dad jeans becoming popular, but hey, that’s fashion. We never really know what we’re going to get.
Dad fashion doesn’t involve raiding your father’s closet. Roomy and comfortable silhouettes go with the territory, but you don’t have to look like you’re playing dress up. A touch of dad fashion can be easily added with a pair of chunky sneakers, a Hawaiian shirt, a bucket hat or anything else previously dubbed “ugly.” The key is to have fun and not obsess over styling decisions, just like dad.
In need of inspo? Here are some of the ways street style stars have adopted dad fashion that keeps it trendy, not tragic.
How to Pull Off Dad Fashion Without Looking Like You Raided Your Father's Closet
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Father Knows Best
Make like all 90s dads and pair a fanny pack with an oversized sweatshirt. Choose a statement bag and wear it crossbody style. Pick belted purple trousers for a feminine finish.
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Vacay Every Day
Channel dad on vacation with board shorts, a hoodie, slide sandals and a fanny pack.
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Double Denim Dad
Double denim looks are staples in many dads' wardrobes. Keep things classic with a faded denim shirt tucked into relaxed dad jeans fastened with a brown belt.
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Aloha
Your dad's cringeworthy Hawaiian shirts have been openly embraced by the fashion set. Take the bold color palette further with bright baggy trousers and statement shoes. A patterned bag, colorful sunglasses and neon nails only up the ante.
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Knotty by Nature
When it comes to dad style, you can't go wrong with a bold button-down and baggy pants. Tie the shirt in a knot for a feminine spin. And don't forget those chunky white sneakers.
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Room to Move
Any oversized work shirt will score you plenty of dad style points, but colorblocking and fringe keep it fashion. (A windbreaker also works.) Finish strong with straight-leg pants, a turtleneck and dad sneakers.
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Utility Chic
The beige and utilitarian trends play right into dad fashion. The neutral color palette and sturdy cotton workwear pieces nod to fathers everywhere while maintaining a chic finish.
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Bring It Back
Take dad fashion back in time with pops of neon and loud patterns straight out of the 80s. A breezy jacket or windbreaker and long tie-dye shorts enhance the old-school vibes.
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Dad but Extra
An ironic animal print button-down and relaxed trousers capture the essence of dad fashion, but the bright yellow color palette and slit-hem pants make it stylish. Don't forget the white boots.
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Came for the Camo
Combine dad's favorite chunky sneakers with a camo boilersuit and a practical trench for an outfit that ticks all the boxes without trying too hard.
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Finishing Touches
This jumpsuit combines two classic dad style elements: windbreakers and baggy pants. Don't underestimate the power of adding in sleek ankle boots, oversized sunglasses and red lipstick.
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Dad Jeans
Forget mom jeans. We're all for baggy, high-waisted dad jeans. A dark wash provides a more formal finish, while a fitted tee balances out the look. A white bag and heels keep things fresh.
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Just a Tad
Avoid going overboard by only incorporating one or two dad-inspired elements into the mix. Balance a windbreaker (preferably by Balenciaga) and chunky sneakers with a plaid skirt, a statement bag and jewelry.
