If there is one thing fashion has excelled at lately, it is the art of making ugly things cute. It started with normcore. Think high-waisted jeans, camel coats, pullover sweaters and minimalism. It was a very subtle menswear trend that has now evolved into full on "dad-inspired" attire. Nerdy, bulky sneakers from the likes of less-popular sportswear brands like Fila, New Balance and Reebok, tracksuits, cargo pants, fanny packs, socks and sandals, and the beloved dad jean. Anything a nerdy dad on a European summer vacation would wear, consider it on trend.
I like trying anything new. Sometimes I pull it off and sometimes I don't. I consider myself a chameleon of fashion. I'm not afraid to try things because I believe this is all part of the fashion journey. Right now, I'm just discovering what works and how I can inspire myself through fashion.
I've seen so many instagirls recently wearing these Fila sneakers that I wanted to dive a little more into the trend and explore some different options. Check out a few of the "dad-inspired" outfits that I've styled and who knows, maybe I'll carry on a few of these styling tricks into many more looks.
1. Chunky Sneakers
If I am looking for a specific on-trend item, the first thing I do is look at a thrift store. If it is something that I don't think I can find there, then I would usually look into Zara. I was actually about to buy these Fila sneakers from Urban Outfitters until I just happened upon some white barely-worn Reebok sneakers at Goodwill. These are a little less chunky which is better if you are hesitant about the ugly shoe trend. They are surprisingly versatile and I've worn them a lot. I like wearing unexpected combinations so I'd like to pair these with a pretty dress or even colored tights. I also like them with trousers for a more refined weekend lewk.
Bonus points for white gym socks!!
2. The "Dad" Jean
Similar to the "Mom" jean, this variety is also a high-waisted vintage cut but in a lighter wash and more relaxed fit. See here again I am wearing my beloved orthopedic sneaker. I am grateful that comfy shoes are in because I loathe impractical shoes. As a topper, I am wearing a vintage blazer as a shirt and the warmest vintage vest I've ever experienced.
3. Tracksuit
This look is inspired by personal experiences because my dad considers a tracksuit a vital part of his wardrobe. My mom actually stole this tracksuit from my dad because she wants to be hip and wear track pants with heels (which she did and her non-fashionable friends thought she was weird). I, then, stole this from her so I could style it for some pics. In conclusion, this tracksuit is actually my dad's and I dressed it up here with some white pumps and some sparkly socks.
4. Fanny Pack
All the cool girls are wearing their fanny pack like this, but I don't know how I feel about it yet. I got this fanny pack a while ago from a garage sale and I'm wearing it with a vintage fur I found in Amsterdam and a Champion hoodie.
