June 5, 2024

The Eclectic Grandpa Trend: 5 Ways to Wear it Well

Move over Coastal Grandma, the Eclectic Grandpa trend is stealing your thunder!

While the style is rooted in classic menswear, the look can be effortlessly chic on anyone who wants to give it a try. The key is to mix oversized silhouettes and tailored pieces just right. Materials such as wool, tweed, denim, cashmere, leather and suede are hallmarks of the trend while old-school accessories such as loafers, dad sneakers, vintage watches and ball caps finish it off.

Also known as “Grandpacore,” it is sophisticated yet laid back, retro with a modern touch and playful, especially when you add a pop of color and combine patterns such as pinstripes and argyle in just the right way.

In this month’s blog, we break the trend down by sharing 5 key ways to wear it well.

#1 High-Waisted Trousers
To build your Eclectic grandpa wardrobe just right, start with a pair of high waisted trousers, jeans or khakis. Ankle length or slightly longer is the preferred length of the trend. Grandpas don’t wear overly cropped pants unless they roll their trousers at the beach! Belting your pant always adds Grampacore flair!

#2 Striped Button-Up Shirt
By all means source these shirts from the closet of any guy in your midst. To add a feminine twist to this classic menswear staple, shop them from a brand that caters to women’s fashion. Dropped shoulders, asymmetrical hems and thinner fabrics can often be more figure-flattering for female curves.

#3 Mr. Rogers Vibe
Sweater vests and oversized cardigans that give that perfect slouchy boyfriend fit (aka Mr. Rogers vibe!) are what you want to be on point with this trend. Before heading to a store (yes, these items are currently in abundance in both men’s and women’s departments for prime unisex cherry picking!) visit your own grandad’s closet (or a vintage store) and see what you can find. Extra points for sweaters with houndstooth and argyle pattens and color-block trim. Over-sized blazers, vintage bomber jackets and classic trench coats are also signature layering pieces of the trend that are worth scouting at secondhand stores.

#4 Quality Loafers
Many Granddads are known for making quality investments. Follow suit by celebrating this trend with a true style investment of your own — high-quality loafers that you will love to wear for years to come!

#5 Grandpacore Accessories
Finally, make the look your own by adding vintage watches, ball caps and bucket hats, wire-frame glasses, well-worn briefcases and satchels, signet rings and even suspenders! The accents are endless when you start really studying the trend.

Editor’s Note: We love this trend for so many reasons – it allows for recycling items found in many homes, it celebrates the unisex trend many like but don’t know how to implement, it’s relaxed without looking sloppy. Want some help creating this look for yourself? Reach out to Senior Stylist Sarah Zengo for a complementary connect call. All of our services are customized to help you land on just the right style for your vibe and lifestyle.

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