How to Steal Dad’s Style Without Looking Old School
A few years ago, an unlikely new icon emerged on the runways: dad. The fashion industry’s embrace of chunky orthopedic sneakers, loud printed shirts, relaxed jeans and baseball caps suddenly had everyone looking at their fathers in a whole new light, but for many of us, dad was our style hero all along. In honor of Father’s Day, some of us on Team TRR shared our favorite throwback photos of dad and the sartorial lessons we learned, and our Los Angeles store’s Manager of Stylists Teena Sahebi explained how to nail these looks today. Read on for your masterclass in Dad Style 101.
Cynthia Buchan, Fashion Valuation Manager
How would you describe your dad’s style?
My dad was a big Jim Reeves fan and an avid country music listener throughout his college years, so I definitely think he picked up a few style pointers from his music idols. Clean, simply tailored suiting with brightly colored or printed shirts.
What’s the biggest style lesson he taught you?
Wear whatever you like, even if it seems like too much. He wore many standout pieces throughout the ‘60s and ‘70s, like the statement belt in this photo!
What’s the one thing he would never leave home without?
He never left home without his Casio CA53W-1 watch, which I loved as a kid. Looking back now, I’m not quite sure he actually used the calculator features, but he wore it because it looked very high-tech for its time.
If your dad were a luxury item, he’d be a…
Really clean, well-made cricket sweater from Burberry. One of his favorite things to do was watch cricket, both overseas and in the United States, and he always dressed the part when he went to a live game.
Stylist’s tip: “This silhouette is still very relevant, as is the oversized collar! It’s an easy outfit to recreate today, and Acne Studios has a great selection of button-ups.” —Teena Sahebi
Dsquared² Printed Belt; Acne Studios Printed Shirt; Apple Series 3 Watch
Hilary Hinshaw, Senior Life Cycle Marketing Manager
How would you describe your grandfather’s style?
Classic and comfortable.
What’s the biggest style lesson your grandfather taught you?
Only keep what you love. If you haven’t used it in 6 months, it’s time to part with it.
What’s the one thing he would never leave home without?
His messenger bag. It came on every errand, vacation and to the office.
If your grandfather were a luxury item, he’d be a…
Patek Philippe watch.
Stylist’s tip: “Cardigans are timeless, but they can sometimes fall flat with the wrong outfit. Take it up a notch with a classic Nova check cardigan from Burberry, a polo or T-shirt, a slim pair of jeans and distressed boots.” —TS
Shop Burberry Cardigans
Ivette Arriola, Authentication & Brand Compliance Manager
How would you describe your dad’s style?
My dad was free-spirited, and his style matched his personality. Always colorful and fun.
What’s the biggest style lesson he taught you?
Wear whatever makes you happy. As long as you’re comfortable, be you!
What’s the one thing he would never leave home without?
He would never go anywhere without a hair comb in his pocket and cologne.
If your dad were a luxury item, he’d be a…
Rolex Yacht-Master. Timeless, bold and handsome.
Stylist’s tip: “A slim suit is an essential in every man’s wardrobe. Prada and Saint Laurent should be your go-to labels, and don’t be afraid to play around with suits in unexpected colors and prints.” —TS
Shop Suiting
Sienna Phan, Project Management Specialist
How would you describe your dad’s style?
Simple and sophisticated.
What’s the biggest style lesson your dad taught you?
The key is to invest in pieces that will always be in style. Solid colors, classics and things that fit you just right.
What’s the one thing he would never leave home without?
He never leaves without his watch, belt and wallet. Only the basics, but all timeless investment pieces.
If your dad were a luxury item, he’d be a…
Casual button-up. He’s always put together, but never overdressed.
Stylist’s tip: “Helmut Lang makes a great ‘Members Only’ jacket, perfect for recreating this awesome ‘80s look. And you can never go wrong with a pair of Ray-Ban Wayfarers.” —TS
Helmut Lang Leather Members Only Jacket; Ray-Ban Wayfarer Sunglasses; Supreme x Lacoste Striped Polo
Allison Sommer, Director of Strategic Initiatives
How would you describe your dad’s style?
Tech guy cool. My dad was the most stylish guy in the nerdiest of worlds.
What’s the biggest style lesson he taught you?
Nothing beats quality! He’d assess everything, from a snowsuit to a swimsuit, in the same way: barely looking at it but instead thoroughly feeling every inch to vet the construction.
What’s the one thing he would never leave home without?
Dog treats, just in case he met a new furry friend. Also, he was most often seen with a newspaper tucked under his arm and Snapple in hand, the accessories of choice for this loving, intellectual minimalist.
If your dad were a luxury item, he’d be a…
Tumi messenger bag. Practical, versatile and very well-made. All in all, a smart investment — always his goal.
Stylist’s tip: “Today’s utility trend has made harnesses and vests into statement pieces. Look to Virgil Abloh’s Louis Vuitton collections for inspiration, and marry classic pieces with quality, utilitarian construction.” —TS
Shop Messenger Bags
Noelani Piters, Marketing Copywriter
How would you describe your dad’s style?
Cozy and understated. My dad hates the cold and prizes warmth and comfort above all else.
What’s the biggest style lesson he taught you?
Always invest in functionality and craftsmanship. Don’t waste your money on anything of inferior quality, no matter how nice it looks.
What’s the one thing he would never leave home without?
A jacket. His favorite is a bright orange puffer, and he’s worn it so often that it’s developed a surprisingly on-trend “distressed” look.
If your dad were a luxury item, he’d be a…
Louis Vuitton Epi Keepall. It’s everything he’d want in a good bag — practical, roomy and built to last forever with no overt logos or frills.
Stylist’s tip: “This is a great layered look, rich in color. Tom Ford makes buttery leather jackets almost identical to this, with excellent craftsmanship. Swap the wellies out for a pair of white sneakers for more of a casual city vibe.” —TS
Hermès Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater; Balenciaga Triple S Sneakers; Tom Ford Suede Button-Up Jacket
Aaron McWilliams, Senior Men’s Merchandise Manager
