The newest style sensation sweeping across the globe is Dadcore, which has followed in the wake of cottagecore, balletcore, and dreamcore.
Dadcore represents an evolution of normcore, focusing on laid-back and comfy attire. It draws inspiration from typical items found in a father’s closet. Picture yourself wearing jean shorts alongside loose-fitting jackets.
What’s the secret to pulling off this look without appearing as though you’re decked out in cast-off clothes from a thrift store? With menswear-inspired tailoring making a comeback in fashion – here’s how to rock the trend.
Initially seen as the opposite of trendy, ‘dad’ style has now become highly fashionable. The dadcore look—which features functional parkas, bulky sneakers, and faded jeans—first appeared in 2016 on the catwalks of major designers.
Balenciaga
and attracted widespread recognition by the close of the decade.
Perhaps the allure stems from its defiance of perfection. “I believe it has gathered speed due to a combination of irony, comfort, and resistance against the overly curated and excessively styled appearances we’ve been seeing,” clarifies the celebrity stylist.
Oriona Robb
It’s that unpolished relaxed vibe instead.
This style revolves around deliberately adopting what are considered “unpopular” garments typically linked to older men, such as tight-fitting jeans, polo shirts, and slip-on shoes.
When these pieces are put together thoughtfully, they transform into expressions of genuine style and ease. As Robb explains, “They’re all about basic elements combined with a touch of humor and emotional depth,” adding that everything comes across as casually assembled without much effort.
What are the defining elements of Dadcore?
Dadcore embraces functionality and nostalgic appeal. “Key items feature sturdy white sneakers as
New Balance
The 530s, along with relaxed denim or stonewashed jeans, oversized polo shirts, windbreakers, ankle socks, and baseball caps are mentioned by Robb.
There’s a practical and down-to-earth aspect to this style, offering more comfort than flair – focusing on functionality rather than aesthetics.
This style represents a shift away from the recent prevalence of daintier fashion trends like the ‘sneakerina,’ which is the term for the hybrid between ballet slippers and sneakers.
Although the general vibe appears laid-back, mastering dadcore requires more than just happenstance. Key elements include polar fleece half-zips, well-worn tees, and braided belts that define this style.
This offers a contemporary twist on the grunge style from the 1990s—a trend that aligns with the resurgence of that era’s iconic pixie haircut.
What makes it appealing to younger generations?
Just like the grunge and indie sleaze aesthetics resonated with young people of the Nineties – dadcore is a rejection of stylised normality. It is a rejection of the prim and proper fashion trends, like ‘quiet luxury’, that have dominated fashion more recently.
Dadcore is a component of a larger cultural trend. “This style is closely linked with the widespread nostalgic movement affecting fashion,” says Robb. Amidst times that feel rapidly changing, digitalized, and uncertain, dadcore offers a return to a simpler, steadier aesthetic.
“The dadcore style aims to evoke familiarity and nearly replicate the aesthetics of childhood home videos or lazy Sunday mornings,” explains Robb.
Younger millennials and
Gen Z
understand fashion’s recurring patterns and appreciate reinventing history with a contemporary touch. ‘This trend enables them to blend irony, comfort, and narrative simultaneously.’
How to create a ‘dadcore’ clothing style
You don’t need a full transformation to tap into dadcore. Robb suggests starting with the basics, like classic chunky sneakers – New
Balance
or
Reebok
are ideal – paired with relaxed-fit or stonewashed jeans.
Oversized graphic or plain tees in faded tones, plaid or flannel shirts (often tucked in), and outerwear like anoraks or windbreakers are signature pieces of the look.
Not everybody wishes to adopt the full suburban dad look, and that’s perfectly fine. “This poses a challenge for those who appreciate luxury or prefer classic feminine styles, as it seems entirely contrary!” explains Robb.
But dadcore doesn’t involve discarding your personal style.” Begin by incorporating elements like a windbreaker or bulky sneakers into an otherwise refined or contemporary ensemble. “The aim shouldn’t be to dress up but to reinvent the look according to your own vision.
She recommends combining an oversized dad sweater with tailored pants or adding a vintage-inspired jacket to a simpler outfit. “Make sure it feels relaxed yet intentional and stick to what makes you feel at ease,” advises Robb.
TALA Active Embroidered Cap – Washed Denim, $18 CAD
M&S Light Cotton Blend Jacket, $78 CDN
H&M Thin-Knit Polo Shirt, $24.95
Zara
TRS Mid-Waist Straight-Leg Jeans, £17.99 (previously £29.99)
New Balance
530
trainers
“>
Trainers
, £100, Schuh
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