3 Fashion Tips for Style Challenged Dads

Being a dad isn’t a valid excuse for looking sloppy or lazy. After all, you don’t have to be fashion forward to dress with style. If you follow these simple style tips you’ll instantly look more polished and sophisticated.

1. Ditch your sneakers

Many dads make the mistake of pairing their sneakers with jeans, chinos or shorts. While your sneakers are perfect for the gym, they shouldn’t be paired with your casual outfits.

If you only have a few pairs of shoes seriously consider shopping for new casual shoes. Remember it is better to have a few pairs of casual shoes rather than one go to pair as your shoes will last longer and you’ll save money in the long time.
Swap your sneakers for these stylish alternatives:

Boater shoes

Boater shoes are a classic wardrobe staple and are a great investment as they never go out of style. While a decent pair of boater shoes may cost $100, you’ll get years worth of wear out of them. If you’re unsure of what color to choose, go for a brown or navy blue pair as they’ll look good with jeans, shorts or chinos. If you’re not afraid of standing out also consider choosing a green or red pair as they’ll add a pop of color to your wardrobe.

Loafers

A pair of dark brown loafers are perfect for “smart casual” events and are also a great option to wear on a date night with someone special.

Casual shoes

If comfort is a priority then opt for a casual pair of Nike, Adidas or Puma shoes. The key is not to purchase another pair of running shoes, but a pair of casual branded shoes that are designed specifically for casual wear and not for exercise. Also make sure to stay away from youthful hi tops or basketball shoes as they’ll probably look better on your kids.

2. Dress Your Age

Don’t feel embarrassed if your wardrobe is stuck in a time warp, it happens to best of us. Here are a few suggestions to dress your age and look suave, just like James Bond.

Button down shirts

While there’s nothing wrong with good old t-shirts an easy way to look stylish is to occasionally swap a t-shirt for a button down shirt. When it comes to casual wear steer away white shirts, as they belong in the office and instead opt for a chequered shirt or a light colored shirt. Light blue shirts tend to look sleek on most guys. If you’re not afraid of attention perhaps opt for a subtle pattern.

Jackets

When its cold put down your old hoodie and reach for a classy wool jacket or an edgy black leather jacket. There’s no excuse for looking like a frat boy. When purchasing a new jacket also ensure that the sleeves aren’t too long or too short or you’ll end up looking sloppy.

Knee length shorts

Just because you see teenage boys wearing shorter styles doesn’t mean you should. Stick to khaki knee length shorts which you can pair with boater shoes a button down shirt and sunglasses. Also avoid knee length jean shorts, they don’t look good on anyone.

Fedoras

You probably have an old sports cap that you wear religiously. Take my advice and save it for sports events. Instead opt for a classic straw fedora and you’ll look cool without any effort.

3. Accessorize

You may be surprised, but accessorizing isn’t just for women. If your go to outfit is a pair of jeans and a t-shirt learning to accessorize can take your outfit from drab to fab.
Easy ways to accessorize:

Wool scarves

Wool scarves are a winter wardrobe essential and look fantastic paired with a casual pair of jeans and a dark wool jacket. Adding a scarf to a winter outfit is a great way of tricking people into thinking you’re stylish.

Belts

Invest in a selection of quality belts. Don’t make the mistake of pairing a boring black belt, which you wear to work every day with every outfit. A faded brown leather belt looks great teamed with chinos or jeans.

Sunglasses

A humble pair of sunglasses can transform a dad into a star. The key is to choose a pair of sunglasses which compliments your face shape. The best way to choose sunglasses is to try on a variety of sunglasses and to get the advice of a trusted friend or female family member. If you’re unsure opt for traditional Ray Ban sunglasses or aviators which are universally flattering.

Manbag

This may be a tough on for most dads, but if if you really want to complete the look, a man-bag can do it. Most stores offer a range of manbags. Manbags ensure you’ll look cool even if you have to lug around your kids belongings that they refuse to carry. If you’ve never owned such a bag opt for a simple brown messenger bag or satchel. (www.crumpler.com)

Looking put together doesn’t have to be a challenge and you don’t have to spend a fortune to look cool. Just follow the three easy tips above and your kids will want to show you off to their friends instead of wanting to hide.