The Adam Sandler Effect
So you're saying my dad dresses "cool"?
You heard it here first, your dad's closet is where it's at. In 2021, Adam Sandler was the most googled celebrity for fashion inspiration, making it impossible to deny the appeal of dressing like a middle-aged man. Since the return of New Balances three years ago, there has been a rapid increase in demand for staples that can be found in your dad's closet. ‘Dad fashion’ is centered around keeping your clothing relaxed and simplistic - a prominent concept in the fashion industry post-pandemic. The off-duty dad look is returning with a resurgence of dad shoes, dad jeans, fanny packs, and baseball caps.
Over the last three years, there has been a speedy increase in demand for the coveted "dad shoes," also known as New Balance sneakers. If you had asked me what New Balance sneakers were three years ago, I would have replied, "My grandparents' walking shoes?" The shoe company, once known for its classic dad shoes, is now making waves in the fashion industry with its versatile chunky sneakers and the iconic 550s. If we know two things about recent fashion trends, it's that the 90s are making a comeback, and millennials love athleisure. Dad shoes are a versatile element of an outfit that can be worn with all different styles of clothing, whether coordinated with athletic pieces, paired with jeans, or used to dress down a pair of trousers.
Skinny jeans are out, and dad jeans are in. Have you ever tried on a pair of jeans that are too big in one area and too tight in another; not with Dad's jeans! These jeans have a baggier fit that is still narrow around the ankles, making them tapered and the perfect pair of jeans for a long day of studying or lounging around the house. Despite the name of these jeans, they are easy to give a feminine flair by pairing them with a pair of heels or a dressier top.
Fun fact: fanny packs were originally designed in the 80s for dads who needed an item to carry their belongings. Fanny packs were made to resemble a purse but are hands-free and unrestrictive. These durable pouches are perfect for people with minimal things to carry but also for those who want to keep their belongings close to their body, such as a phone, keys, or wallet. Fanny packs can be easily worn across your body, around your waist, or over the shoulder like a purse. These packs are perfect for running errands, going to the gym, or going out with friends.
Lastly, we have the classic dad cap. Dad caps are your traditional unstructured baseball cap that is the perfect item to throw on as you leave the house to cover your hair, protect your skin, and level up any outfit. These relaxed hats are great for running errands, going to the gym, or getting out in nature.
Post-pandemic, society has embraced a more laid-back and casual approach to fashion - this is made evident by the resurrection of popular dad trends from the 90s. Dressing up and feeling put together is fun, but sometimes we want to channel our inner Adam Sandler and wear what feels best.