Dadcore: 20 "Dad" Clothes That Are Officially Cool In 2025
Who Knew Dad Was Just Ahead Of His Time?
Once mocked and meme-ified, "dad clothes" have quietly staged a full-blown fashion takeover, either because of the insatiable nostalgia of Gen Zers and Millennials or because it was cool all along. From chunky sneakers and tucked-in, oversized graphic tees to pleated trousers and polos, these are (astoundingly) the most coveted items in fashion right now. Before you get stuck scratching your head, be glad it's practical sandals and not stilettos that are making a comeback. Here are 20 quintessential "dad" clothes that are officially in fashion right now.
1. Sports Caps
Whether you're a sports fan or just a casual observer, you can't go wrong with an unstructured sports cap, otherwise known as a "dad cap." They're comfortable, practical for summer, and look even better when they're a little worn out.
2. Fleece Jackets
Existing comfortably at the intersection of dadcore and gorpcore is the fleece jacket. It comes in a variety of thicknesses and styles and can be layered up for colder months, making it an indispensable wardrobe item.
3. Comfortable Sneakers
There was a time when we wouldn't be caught dead in cushioned, sensible sneakers like New Balances or Asics. Now, it's all the opposite. Bonus points if they're light-colored and you wear them with tube socks.
4. Jorts
When we talk about jorts we don't mean cute jean cut-offs or booty shorts, but the kind of loose-fitting, knee-length jean shorts dads wear during barbecue season. They're an astonishingly hot item right now for both men and women.
5. Cargo Pants
Loose-fitting, full of pockets, and practical, cargo pants are back in full swing. If they're khaki, with zippers at the knee, even better.
6. Practical Sandals
Tevo, Birkenstock, and Keen are some of the most sought-after practical sandal brands out there right now. They're equipped with proper arch support, enough tread to hike up a mountain, and sexy velcro straps.
7. Wraparound Sunglasses
No summer dadcore look is complete without a pair of wraparound shades. These were popular in the early 2000s before they fell off, we thought for good until Balenciaga and Prada introduced them back into their collection.
Vyacheslav Argenberg on Wikimedia
8. Tucked Tees
Or tuck or not to tuck? The vote is in and the people say tuck. Tucking your shit in can have a slimming effect and class up your outfit, even if you've just gone for a simple T-shirt and jeans.
Dick Thomas Johnson on Wikimedia
9. Relaxed Fit Denim
In case you still haven't gotten the memo, skinny jeans are out. They've been replaced by oversized pants and relaxed-fit denim just like the Levi's 501s or 550s hanging in your dad's closet.
10. Layering
To achieve that coveted dadcore essential look, layer plaid shirts over graphic tees, and on cooler days, add a fleece vest or utility jacket. This will add depth and versatility to your ensemble.
11. Oversized Silhouettes
Remember how your dad used to wear T-shirts with sleeves that hit his elbows in the early 2000s? It's time to channel that loosey-goosey fit into all aspects of your wardrobe.
12. Boat Shoes
Maritime fashion has come back in a big way at the same time as dadcore, making for the perfect platform for boat shoes and loafers to make a comeback. Pair them with a linen ensemble for the perfect summer look.
13. Pleated Pants
Pleated trousers, especially ones that are a little exaggerated, harkening back to the 1980s, are back, and once you put some on you'll be thankful they are. These are breezy, light, endlessly comfortable, classy, and fabulous.
14. Polo Shirts
We're not talking about popped-collar frat boy versions of polo shirts. We mean relaxed-fit 90s-style polos reminiscent of your dad's Saturday golf outfit in the 90s.
15. Windbreakers
Another gorpcore meet dadcore fashion trend is the reemergence of the 1990s windbreaker. The more loose-fitting and brightly colored the better.
16. Tube Socks
We used to be mortified if our socks were visible over the rim of our shoes. Now, it's a desired look to show your white tube socks. You can even wear them with your practical sandals.
17. Aviators
Still considered dadcore but slightly more accessible than wraparounds, which are a more intense statement piece, are aviators. Paired with a sports cap and a plaid shirt you've got yourself a full dadcore aesthetic.
18. Graphic Tees
Graphic tees, particularly from events where they were given away for free, rock shows, or ones that look like they were bought in bulk from Goodwill, are oddly very stylish right now. The more worn out looking the better.
19. Quarter-Zip Pullovers
Forget hoodies, quarter-zips are where it's at. They may allude to peak suburban dad energy, but they're comfortable and practical, offering amazing neck-warming capabilities.
20. Track Suits
Did your dad always go to the supermarket in a tracksuit? Well, he may have been onto something. Celebrities everywhere are sporting them nowadays on their days off for a chic and comfortable outfit that meshes dadcore and sportcore trends.
