An Essential Guide: The Classic Dad-fit

Dads are everywhere. They're all different. But yet, they're all the same. As you sit with buddies and share stories about your pops, good or bad, certain sentiments remain synonymous. One thing all dads share: the Dad-fit. Now, we live in a pretty "cool" time. Dad's are sporting skinny jeans and sometimes look like a 50 year old kid with a kid, but if that's the case, they're actively denying an interest in the classic dad-fit (dad outfit, for those still confused), which, to me, is one of the trophies of fatherhood. You're raising a human being, reward yourself with some intentionally contradicting wardrobe choices and a general vibe that screams, "Why should I care?"

As a 25 year old non-dad, I'm already pretty consciously cultivating a dad aesthetic and below are a few pieces of inspiration. So Happy Father's Day to all good dads, all men and women that play a dad role, and also to future fathers...

The DAD CAP should sit a little too high on your ole melon, protect your peepers (functionality is first!), and it's best if it brandishes the name of an old outdoor, beer, or boiler room company...

The DAD SHIRT, if not a polo of some kind, should be graphic or heavily patterned in nature. Ideally, it will recall a decades-old 5K, a resort or vacation spot, or actually proclaim your top father ranking...

Pants are fine, but DAD SHORTS, or DORTS, are preferred. Cut-offs are prohibited. A nice and tidy hem should always display an under-tanned thigh and for those with the best angle, a little-seen hamstring...

A DAD SWEATER should always be in reserve. In a perfect world, it is of the crew neck variety, and it's distinct for being made up of colors that seem to have been gifted to the world purely to be sewn into 70s/80s/90s sweaters. Below: Grant Hill and his dad...

D-ACCESSORIES are important, too. A camera, roller skates, or a fanny pack are things on the list. In the end, though, having D-Accessories comes down more to having DAD COMMITMENT. That's key...

Finally, footwear is for comfort. White sock thickness, durability, and good arch support are tantamount when picking out DAD SNEAKS...