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.
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. But the truth is, Dad style has endured because it prioritizes comfort, versatility, and confidence over fleeting trends.
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?
The more worn-in your dad cap, the better. Between park picnics, backyard BBQ’ing, and playing catch with the kids, dads put their headwear through a lot — a point of pride for the seasoned father — resulting in a comfy, formed fit. Wear yours with your weekend casual favourites, or even dressed up with a navy blazer, light denim, and canvas sneakers.
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.
Think of polos in two main categories: pique and knit. Pique polos are a classic style that typically leans a little sportier and is almost always made of cotton or a cotton blend. Knit polos are slightly more elevated, made in the same style as a sweater from more luxurious materials, including Merino wool, silk, linen, or premium cotton.
If he’s not in a polo, there’s a darn 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.
The secret to pulling off eye-catching patterns is to keep the rest of your outfit relatively simple with solid, complementary colours.
Classic, approachable, and no-nonsense; a classic pair of light-wash blue jeans represents all the same qualities Dad does.
Straight-fit will do, slim if it’s your preference, but never skinny — dads value functionality and comfort above all.
These 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.
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.
While trends come and go, the best elements of dad style have remained remarkably consistent: comfortable pieces, dependable fits, and a wardrobe built for real life.
For over seven decades, we’ve helped generations of men look and feel their best — and that includes plenty of fathers.
For personalized style advice, curated wardrobe suggestions, and first notice of new arrivals, limited-time offers, and much more, connect with a Style Advisor in-store or online — it’s the best way to enjoy the Harry Rosen experience.