Fashion: Dad Style Gets Chic: From Fashion Faux Pas to Coveted Cool

Why it is the topic trending:

• Unexpected Fashion Shift: The transformation of "dad style" from something mocked to a desirable fashion trend is an unexpected and humorous turn that captures attention.

• Redefining Cool: The trend challenges traditional notions of what is considered fashionable, suggesting a shift towards comfort and unpretentiousness.

• Celebrity Endorsement (Pedro Pascal): The article highlights the adoption of "dad style" by celebrities like Pedro Pascal, further validating and popularizing the trend.

• Relatability and Comfort Focus: The core of "dad style" is comfort and practicality, which resonates with many individuals seeking effortless style.

• Shift in Mindset: The trend is presented not just as a visual change but also as a shift in mindset, valuing unpretentious and comfortable staples over image-consciousness.

Overview:

The article explores the surprising rise of "dad style" as a coveted fashion trend. Once mocked for its loose cuts, comfortable fabrics, and seemingly unintentional pairings (like socks with sandals), this aesthetic has now been embraced by trendsetters, designers, and celebrities like Pedro Pascal. The trend, also known as "dadcore," emphasizes comfort, practicality, and an unpretentious approach to dressing. Experts suggest this shift reflects a broader change in mindset, valuing comfort and ease over highly curated or performative styles in a world saturated with image-consciousness.

Detailed Findings:

• "Dad Style" Defined: Characterized by loose cuts, slouchy fits, comfortable fabrics, chunky loafers, faded jeans, and seemingly dull cardigans, reminiscent of typical weekend wear for dads.

• Transformation from Mockery to Iconic: The aesthetic has moved from being overlooked and mocked to becoming a coveted style embraced by trendsetters and designers.

• Comfort as the New Cool: The trend redefines coolness by prioritizing comfort and an effortless approach to dressing.

• Fashion Houses Replicating "Dad Style": Designers are intentionally creating looks that emulate the unintentional confidence of "dad style," even pairing socks with sandals.

• Celebrity Adoption: Pedro Pascal: The actor is highlighted for his effortlessly cool "dad style," often seen in bomber jackets, loose jeans, cardigans, and sneakers, proving the trend can be stylish and relatable.

• Comfort and Practicality as Key: The trend emphasizes comfort and practicality over highly curated or flashy looks.

• Honest and Unpretentious Aesthetic: Fashion designers like Joe Chia believe the trend resonates because it feels honest and prioritizes comfort and functionality.

• "Lived-In" and Familiar Appeal: People are drawn to clothes that feel comfortable and familiar, suggesting a sense of ease and subtle character.

• Beyond Fatherhood: The trend's appeal extends beyond actual fathers, as seen by fashion photographer Alexio Yeoh's relatability to the style.

• Timeless Classics Reinterpreted: Brands like Sacoor Brothers are tapping into the trend by offering comfortable yet tailored menswear designed to transcend seasons and generations, reinterpreting classics with modern cuts.

• Understated Confidence: "Dad style" allows for a look that doesn't scream for attention but still speaks volumes through its simplicity and comfort.

Key success factors of product (trend):

The key success factors for the "dad style" trend include:

• Comfort and Practicality: The emphasis on comfortable and functional clothing resonates with a wide range of people.

• Effortless Cool: The seemingly unintentional yet stylish look appeals to those seeking a relaxed aesthetic.

• Relatability: It's a style that feels familiar and approachable, as it's based on everyday wear.

• Nostalgia (potentially): For some, it might evoke a sense of nostalgia for past decades or a simpler time.

• Break from Image-Consciousness: In a world of curated online personas, "dad style" offers a refreshing unpretentiousness.

• Celebrity Validation: Pedro Pascal's embrace of the style has significantly boosted its appeal and credibility.

Key Takeaway:

"Dad style," once a fashion punchline, has surprisingly become a coveted trend, celebrated for its comfort, practicality, and unpretentious coolness. Endorsed by celebrities like Pedro Pascal and embraced by designers, this shift signifies a potential move away from highly curated styles towards a more relaxed and authentic approach to fashion.

Main trend:

The main trend is the Embrace of Comfort, Practicality, and Unpretentiousness in Fashion, leading to the unexpected rise of "dad style" as a desirable aesthetic.

Description of the trend (please name it):

The Comfort Core Aesthetic: This trend describes the growing appreciation and adoption of fashion styles that prioritize comfort, practicality, and a sense of ease over highly stylized or overtly fashionable looks. It values unpretentiousness and embraces everyday staples, often drawing inspiration from casual and functional clothing.

What is consumer motivation:

• Desire for Comfort in Clothing: Individuals are increasingly seeking out comfortable and easy-to-wear clothing for daily life.

• Rejection of Restrictive or High-Maintenance Fashion: A move away from fashion that is perceived as uncomfortable, impractical, or requiring excessive effort.

• Appreciation for Authenticity and Unpretentiousness: A valuing of styles that feel genuine and not overly concerned with appearances.

• Practicality for Daily Activities: Choosing clothes that are functional and suitable for everyday tasks and lifestyles.

• Subconscious Nostalgia (potentially): A comfort in familiar, classic styles that might be associated with past generations.

• Seeking a Relaxed and Effortless Image: Wanting to look stylish without appearing to have tried too hard.

What is driving trend:

• Shift in Lifestyle Priorities: A greater emphasis on comfort and well-being in overall lifestyle choices.

• Influence of Casualization in Society: A broader trend towards more casual dress codes in various settings.

• Social Media Embracing Realness: While curated images still exist, there's also a growing trend of showcasing more authentic and unfiltered styles online.

• Celebrity Influence (of certain types): Celebrities known for their down-to-earth style, like Pedro Pascal, can popularize comfort-focused trends.

• Maturing Consumer Perspective: As people age, comfort and practicality often become higher priorities in their clothing choices.

What is motivation beyond the trend:

• Self-Expression: Even within comfortable styles, individuals still want to express their personal taste.

• Functionality: Clothing needs to serve its basic purpose of providing comfort and protection.

• Confidence: Feeling comfortable in what you wear can contribute to overall confidence.

Description of consumers article is referring to:

The article refers to a broad range of individuals, including:

• Trendsetters and Youths: Those who are early adopters of fashion trends and are now embracing "dad style."

• Designers: Fashion designers who are incorporating elements of "dad style" into their collections.

• Celebrities (like Pedro Pascal): Public figures who are showcasing and popularizing the trend.

• General Consumers: Individuals who are finding the comfort and unpretentiousness of "dad style" appealing.

• Fathers (ironically): The original inspiration for the trend, who may now find their everyday wear considered fashionable.

• Fashion Conscious Individuals: Even those who previously might have mocked the style are now finding its appeal.

This suggests a wide demographic across different age groups and levels of fashion engagement is embracing the "dad style" trend.

Conclusions:

The article concludes that "dad style," once ridiculed, has become a significant fashion trend by prioritizing comfort, practicality, and unpretentiousness. This unexpected shift reflects a broader change in mindset, valuing ease and authenticity in a world often focused on curated appearances, and highlights how even seemingly ordinary clothing can be redefined as cool and stylish.

Implications for brands:

• Opportunity for Brands to Emphasize Comfort and Practicality: Marketing campaigns can highlight the comfort and functionality of their clothing.

• Revisiting Classic and Less Flashy Designs: Brands might find renewed interest in more traditional and understated designs.

• Potential for Inclusivity: The trend's broad appeal can allow brands to cater to a wider range of consumers seeking comfortable and relatable styles.

Implication for society:

• Changing Perceptions of Style and Coolness: Society's definition of what is fashionable and desirable is evolving to include more comfort-focused aesthetics.

• Potential for Reduced Pressure to Conform to High-Fashion Norms: The rise of "dad style" might indicate a loosening of strict fashion rules.

Implications for consumers:

• More Comfortable and Practical Fashion Options: Consumers have a wider range of stylish choices that prioritize comfort.

• Reduced Pressure to Always Be "On-Trend": The embrace of timeless, comfortable staples can offer a break from fast fashion cycles.

• Potential for Using Existing Wardrobe Pieces: Many of the elements of "dad style" might already exist in people's wardrobes.

Implication for Future:

• Likely Continued Appreciation for Comfort in Fashion: The emphasis on comfort and practicality is likely to have a lasting impact on fashion trends.

• Further Blurring of Lines Between Casual and Stylish: The boundaries between traditionally casual and fashionable attire may continue to blur.

Consumer Trend (name, detailed description):

Comfort-First Fashion: Consumers are increasingly prioritizing comfort and ease of wear when making clothing choices, influencing trends across various styles, including the rise of "dad style."

Consumer Sub Trend (name, detailed description):

Unpretentious Style Appreciation: There's a growing appreciation for fashion that feels authentic, honest, and not overly concerned with projecting a highly curated image. This valuing of unpretentiousness is central to the appeal of "dad style."

Big Social Trend (name, detailed description):

The Rise of Casualization: Society is generally becoming more casual in terms of dress codes and expectations, influencing fashion trends across different contexts.

Worldwide Social Trend (name, detailed description):

Global Embrace of Comfortable and Relaxed Styles: Across the world, there's a growing trend towards more comfortable and relaxed clothing choices in everyday life.

Social Drive (name, detailed description):

The Fundamental Human Desire for Comfort: The basic human need to feel comfortable in one's clothing is a primary driver behind the "dad style" trend.

Learnings for brands to use in 2025:

• Don't Underestimate the Power of Comfort: Comfort should be a key consideration in design and marketing.

• Embrace Authenticity and Unpretentiousness: Highlight the genuine and practical aspects of your clothing.

Strategy Recommendations for brands to follow in 2025:

• Showcase Comfortable and Relaxed Fits: Feature clothing in campaigns that emphasize ease of movement and wearability.

• Use Models and Imagery That Feel Relatable: Present clothing in a way that reflects everyday life and unpretentious style.

Final sentence (key concept) describing main trend from article (which is a summary of all trends specified), and what brands & companies should do in 2025 to benefit from trend and how to do it:

The dominant trend of Comfort-First Fashion, highlighted by the surprising popularity of "dad style," suggests that brands and companies in 2025 should strategically emphasize the comfort, practicality, and unpretentious appeal of their clothing by showcasing relaxed fits and relatable styles in their marketing to resonate with consumers seeking ease and authenticity in their wardrobes.

Final Note:

• Core Trend: Comfort-First Fashion: Prioritizing comfort and ease in clothing choices.

• Core Strategy: Emphasize Comfort, Practicality, and Authenticity: Highlight the wearable and genuine aspects of clothing.

• Core Industry Trend: Casualization of Fashion: Dress codes and style expectations are becoming more relaxed.

• Core Consumer Motivation: Desire for Comfort and Unpretentiousness: Seeking clothing that feels good to wear and isn't overly concerned with appearances.

Final Conclusion:

The unexpected embrace of "dad style" signifies a refreshing shift in the fashion landscape, where comfort and practicality are taking center stage. This trend offers valuable insights for brands and consumers alike, highlighting the enduring appeal of clothing that feels good and doesn't try too hard. As the world continues to evolve, it's likely that this newfound appreciation for unpretentious comfort will have a lasting impact on how we view and approach personal style.

Core Trend Detailed:

Comfort-First Fashion represents a significant and evolving priority in consumer apparel choices, where the desire for ease, wearability, and physical comfort takes precedence over strictly adhering to the latest trends or prioritizing highly formal or restrictive styles. This trend reflects a broader societal shift towards valuing well-being and practicality in everyday life, influencing how people select and wear clothing for various occasions. It emphasizes a relaxed and functional approach to fashion, often incorporating soft fabrics, looser silhouettes, and designs that allow for ease of movement and all-day comfort.

Key Characteristics of the Core trend:

• Emphasis on Soft and Comfortable Materials: Fabrics that feel good against the skin and allow for breathability are favored.

• Relaxed Silhouettes and Fits: Clothing tends to be less structured and form-fitting, prioritizing looser cuts that provide ease of movement.

• Practicality and Functionality: Garments are often chosen for their usability in everyday activities.

• Casual Aesthetic: The overall look often leans towards casual and approachable rather than highly formal or ornate.

• Versatility: Comfortable clothing that can be adapted for different settings or layered for various weather conditions is highly valued.

• Reduced Emphasis on High Maintenance: Fabrics and styles that require minimal care and are easy to incorporate into daily routines are preferred.

Market and Cultural Signals Supporting the Trend:

• Rise of Athleisure and Loungewear: The sustained popularity of athletic-inspired clothing and comfortable loungewear extending beyond athletic activities and home wear.

• "Dad Style" Trend: As highlighted in the article, the embrace of typically comfortable and unpretentious clothing traditionally associated with fathers.

• Shift Towards Remote Work: The increase in remote work has led to a greater demand for comfortable and presentable clothing for at-home work environments.

• Growing Focus on Mental and Physical Well-being: A societal emphasis on self-care and overall well-being often translates to prioritizing comfort in clothing choices.

• Celebrities Embracing Casual and Comfortable Styles: Public figures often seen in relaxed attire contribute to the normalization and desirability of comfort-focused fashion.

• Increased Consumer Awareness of Sustainable and Natural Fabrics: A preference for materials that are both comfortable and environmentally conscious.

How the Trend Is Changing Consumer Behavior:

• Prioritizing Comfort Over Strict Style Rules: Consumers are less inclined to sacrifice comfort for the sake of adhering to rigid fashion norms.

• Investing in Versatile and Comfortable Basics: Building wardrobes around comfortable staples that can be mixed and matched for different occasions.

• Seeking Out Brands that Emphasize Comfort: Choosing brands that specifically highlight the comfort and wearability of their clothing.

• Dressing More Casually Across Different Settings: A blurring of the lines between appropriate attire for different occasions, with comfort playing a key role.

• Valuing Longevity and Practicality in Clothing: Investing in well-made, comfortable pieces that will last and serve multiple purposes.

Implications Across the Ecosystem:

• For Brands and CPGs:

  • Design Focus on Comfort and Functionality: Clothing designers will need to prioritize comfortable fits, soft fabrics, and practical features.

  • Marketing Messaging Highlighting Comfort Benefits: Advertising campaigns should emphasize the ease and comfort of wearing their products.

• For Retailers:

  • Increased Stocking of Comfortable and Casual Wear: Retailers should ensure their inventory reflects the consumer demand for comfort-focused clothing.

  • Creating Comfortable and Welcoming Shopping Environments: Enhancing the in-store experience to align with the overall trend towards comfort and well-being.

• For Consumers:

  • More Comfortable and Enjoyable Wardrobe Options: Access to a wider variety of stylish yet comfortable clothing choices.

  • Potential for Reduced Pressure to Conform to Uncomfortable Fashion Standards: A greater acceptance of more relaxed and comfortable attire.

Strategic Forecast:

• The Comfort-First Fashion trend is expected to continue its strong trajectory and will likely become a long-term priority for consumers across various demographics.

• We may see further innovations in textile technology leading to even more comfortable and functional fabrics.

• The blending of comfort and style will likely become even more seamless, with brands finding new ways to create fashionable clothing that doesn't compromise on wearability.

Areas of innovation (based on discovered trend):

• Advanced Fabric Technologies: Innovations in textiles that offer superior comfort, breathability, and performance.

• Ergonomic Design Principles in Clothing: Applying ergonomic principles to create clothing that moves with the body and provides maximum comfort.

• Hybrid Garments Blending Style and Comfort: Developing versatile pieces that can transition seamlessly between different settings while prioritizing comfort.

• Personalized Comfort Solutions: Utilizing technology to offer customized clothing recommendations based on individual comfort preferences.

Final Thought (summary):

The prominent trend of Comfort-First Fashion signifies a fundamental shift in consumer values, where the desire for ease, practicality, and physical comfort is increasingly influencing clothing choices. This movement, underscored by the unexpected rise of "dad style," necessitates that brands and companies prioritize the design and marketing of apparel that meets these core consumer needs, recognizing that style and comfort can, and should, coexist in modern wardrobes.

Source: https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/style/2025/06/04/once-mocked-now-coveted---039dad-style039-is-the-fashion-trend-redefining-cool