Dad style, also known as dadcore, is a fashion trend that pays homage to the practical, comfortable, and nostalgic elements often associated with fatherhood. This style embraces relaxed fits, functional fabrics, and classic silhouettes, evoking a sense of familiarity and ease.
Dad Style Outfits: The Dadcore Aesthetic
When crafting the perfect dad style outfit, the key is to balance comfort and style. Start by incorporating iconic pieces that define the dadcore aesthetic, such as ’90s-inspired cargo pants, timeless polo shirts, and versatile coach’s jackets.
Complete the look with essential accessories like ’80s-style chunky sneakers and practical additions such as baseball caps and watches. Mixing and matching these elements allows you to create a range of dad-inspired ensembles.
Casual Reinvention: Cargo Pants
Cargo pants have made a triumphant return, and when paired with a dad hat, they form a duo that speaks to the utility and laid-back nature of dad style. Baggy cargo pants offer ample pocket space, a sign of practical design while maintaining an air of relaxed fashion.
Topped with a dad hat, the look embraces a sense of sport and leisure, a nod to days spent outdoors or at little league games. The ensemble is softened by a crew-neck sweater, which provides a touch of understated sophistication.
Footwear can remain casual; sneakers with design elements like those from Balenciaga or Nike complete the outfit with a modern edge.
Athletic Comfort: The Coach’s Jacket
The coach’s jacket is a quintessential staple of dad style. Its relaxed fit and sporty aesthetic make it a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down. Pair this sports-inspired outerwear with well-fitted khaki trousers to balance active and casual wear.
Complete this ensemble with a simple t-shirt underneath, elevating the outfit with a nod to fashion simplicity. Add a pair of chunky sneakers, like classic New Balance or retro-inspired Nikes, to ground the look with a touch of nostalgia.
Relaxed Fit: Dad Jeans
Dad jeans offer a relaxed fit where style meets comfort. The key to pulling off dad jeans is the fit: look for a tapered leg that provides room to breathe, ensuring ease of movement and a silhouette that complements the physique.
Pair these jeans with a crisp, plain white t-shirt, layering with a denim jacket to subtly embrace the denim-on-denim trend without going overboard. Select a belt that complements the natural waistline to complete the look, ensuring the jeans sit perfectly.
Style Elevated: Half-Zip Sweater
The half-zip sweater is a garment that truly understands the balance between formality and leisure, making it an ideal choice for dads and non-dads alike. The half-zip allows for subtle adjustments throughout the day, offering a hint of the dress shirt or tee beneath, a playful peek at layering without the bulk.
Harmonizing this piece with tailored trousers marries the concepts of relaxation and professionalism. To wear this combo confidently, consider the collar of your underlayer—a polo shirt collar can add a touch of prep, while a crew neck keeps things unfussy.
Shoes should follow the smart-casual thread; leather loafers or minimalist fashion sneakers by labels like Acne Studios or Adidas will serve well.
Refined Outerwear: The Mac Jacket
The Mac jacket is a distinguished choice that transcends generational style, making it an excellent pick for both the fashion-forward father and the modern man. Its streamlined design offers a smart silhouette, ideal for draping over a colorful polo shirt, elevating a simple outfit to one that exudes thoughtful dressing.
In crafting an outfit around a Mac jacket, select trousers that mirror its refined cut—dark denim or tailored chinos work seamlessly. The beauty of the Mac lies in its versatility; roll up the cuffs of your jeans for a relaxed edge, or keep them straight for a more traditional take.
Casually Cool: Button-up Sweater
The button-down sweater is a dynamic addition to any man’s repertoire, symbolizing the fusion of utility and effortless style. Whether you’re a dad on the go or simply a connoisseur of comfort, this piece is about functional fashion.
To sport this look, pair it with light-washed denim, creating an eye-catching and grounded contrast. Underneath, the classic white crew-neck tee remains a faithful companion, ensuring the sweater stays the focal point.
Polished & Relaxed: Classic Chinos
Chinos are the unsung heroes of the dad fashion movement, adaptable enough for family outings yet polished enough for the office. Tapered chinos embody versatility, providing a slimming effect while ensuring room for movement.
They’re the ideal counterpart to a crisp white dress shirt, which brings sophistication to an otherwise relaxed outfit. To master this look, pay attention to the fit of the chinos; a hemline that rests just above the shoe maintains a clean, modern aesthetic.
The chinos’ streamlined silhouette is a canvas for personal expression, allowing for the addition of a belt or a tasteful watch to complete the look.
Tee Time Elegance: The Polo Shirt
The polo shirt is a sartorial tribute to the relaxed sophistication that golf attire inspires. It’s the perfect piece for an outfit that requires a touch of formality without sacrificing ease.
For an outfit that scores high on comfort and style, tuck this breezy shirt into a pair of crisp khaki trousers, creating a look that’s equally at home on the fairway or at a weekend gathering.
Workwear Refined: The Chore Jacket
The chore jacket is a tribute to the enduring legacy of workwear. Its structured design and durable material pay homage to the practical roots of clothing designed for labor, now repurposed for the modern man’s wardrobe.
The jacket’s hardy construction is matched by its sartorial versatility, which is easily layered over a t-shirt, adding depth and texture to the ensemble. The jacket pairs seamlessly with a classic pair of denim jeans to complete the look.
Tropical Breeze: The Hawaiian Shirt Outfit
The Hawaiian shirt is a statement piece that effortlessly conveys a spirit of relaxation and nostalgia. Opt for a bold print against a dark background to preserve vintage aesthetics while maintaining a modern edge.
The look celebrates summer vibes and carefree days when paired with crisp white linen trousers. To keep the focus on the shirt’s vibrant pattern, accessories should be minimal—a pair of classic sunglasses and simple leather sandals ground the ensemble.
Rugged Layers: The Flannel Shirt
The flannel shirt embodies a blend of comfort and rugged charm. Its checkered pattern in muted tones pairs effortlessly with a henley underneath, adding depth through layering.
Anchor this laid-back look with straight-leg denim jeans, creating a cohesive outfit that resonates with the flannel’s workwear roots. Opt for suede or worn leather boots to emphasize the outfit’s earthy tones and textures.
The Timeless Cool of Dadcore Fashion
Dad fashion celebrates comfort, functionality, and enduring style. By incorporating key pieces like the half-zip sweater or dad shoes, you can easily adopt the dadcore aesthetic.
Whether you’re a father or appreciate the laid-back appeal of this fashion movement, these outfits showcase how to elevate your everyday look with a touch of dad-inspired charm.
