The ‘dadcore’ trend first made an appearance in 2016, but it’s really taken off in recent years. With masculine tailoring making a comeback, here’s a beginner’s guide on how to nail the aesthetic
You might be familiar with the whimsical charm of cottagecore, the elegance of balletcore, or the ethereal allure of dreamcore – but brace yourself for a trend that’s a bit closer to home: ‘dadcore’.
Imagine an offshoot of normcore – that easy-going, comfy vibe with plenty of neutral and oversized items – dadcore is all about those basic, no-fuss pieces you’d likely spot in your old man’s closet, think jean shorts and roomy jackets.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer rocked the trend at the Paris Olympics opening ceremony last year, where he was spotted wearing a Team GB-branded cagoule. Similarly, Zayn Malik tapped into dadcore at New York Fashion Week in September 2024. The former One Direction star donned a bushy beard, long, grown out hair and a brown collared leather jacket.
But how do you rock this look without appearing as though you’ve raided the bargain bin at the local charity shop? With masculine tailoring making a comeback, here’s your guide to nailing the trend.
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What is ‘dadcore’?
Once the epitome of uncool, ‘dad’ fashion has now become a hot trend. The dadcore style – think functional parkas, bulky trainers, and acid-washed jeans – first made waves in 2016 on Balenciaga’s catwalks and by the end of the decade, it had captured the public eye.
Its charm may well stem from its embrace of imperfection. Celebrity stylist Oriona Robb says: “I think it has gained momentum through a mix of irony, comfort and a pushback against the hyper-curated and over-styled looks we’ve seen a lot of. It’s that imperfect laidback style instead.”
This trend is all about deliberately donning those “unfashionable” garments typically linked with middle-aged dads, like drainpipe jeans, polos and loafers.
These items – when styled knowingly – become statements of authenticity and effortlessness. “[It’s about] simple basics with a sense of humour and deeper sentimentality,” says Robb, “and it’s thrown together effortlessly.”
‘A deliberate rejection of recent prim, proper trends’
Much like grunge and indie sleaze spoke to the youth of the ’90s, dadcore pushes back against polished conformity. It’s a deliberate rejection of recent prim, proper trends like ‘quiet luxury’.
Dadcore is riding the wave of a growing cultural movement. “It’s deeply tied to the broader nostalgia wave that’s [sweeping] fashion,” says Robb, noting the connection with an era craving something solid in swiftly changing times.
Highlighting the warming charm behind it, Robb explains: “The dadcore style is supposed to feel familiar and almost an aesthetic version of childhood home videos or Sunday morning routines.”
With a keen eye for fashion cycles, younger millennials and Gen Z are dressing up in past styles with a fresh perspective. “This trend allows them to play with irony, comfort and storytelling all at once,” comments Robb on the trend’s unique blend.
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How to nail ‘dadcore’
Building a dadcore wardrobe doesn’t necessitate a massive overhaul. Robb recommends beginning with staples such as chunky classic trainers – think New Balance or Reebok – combined with comfy jeans like relaxed-fit or stonewashed.
Essentials of this retro vibe include oversized tees, whether graphic or plain, in washed-out hues, plaid or flannel shirts typically tucked in, and practical outerwear such as anoraks or windbreakers.
Robb acknowledges that fully committing to the suburban dad vibe might not suit everyone’s taste. “It’s a tough one as for those with a love of luxury or classic feminine style, it can feel like the total opposite! But dadcore doesn’t mean abandoning your style.”
You can begin by incorporating a windbreaker or a pair of chunky trainers into an otherwise tailored or contemporary ensemble. “The goal isn’t to costume yourself but to reinterpret the aesthetic through your lens,” shares Robb.
She recommends teaming a slouchy dad jumper with smart trousers or layering a vintage jacket over a more minimalist look. “Let it feel lived-in but considered and stay true to what you like and feel comfortable in.”