When it comes to fashion, fathers can be stuck in their wardrobe ways: unlikely to be swayed by the latest catwalk trends and nonplussed by celebrity style icons.
The key concern for most men is comfort. Thankfully, that doesn’t need to be compromised with the new wave of summer trends; the emphasis is on casualwear and low-key looks.
Tap into your father’s style and transform him into Daddy Cool.
VARSITY SPORTS The perfect match for the sports-obsessive father, joggers, trainers and jerseys are bang on trend this season.
“The sports and varsity trend is key for summer, and the perfect look for your dad to rock a bit of stylish rest and recreation,” says Jonathan Lovett, Burton head of design.
With the World Cup approaching, the football strip is one step too far, but colour blocked tops with contrasting arms means that he can still wear his team colours on his sleeve.
SUMMER TAILORING Most fathers have an element of tailoring in their wardrobe, but this season it’s time to ditch the black and navy for sorbet-inspired colour.
“Pastels were all over the catwalk for SS14,” Lovett explains. “Break away from classic tailoring and explore with a little colour for a stylish wardrobe update.”
The trick is to keep things casual. He should avoid ties, with shirts buttoned up to the collars, and keep the silhouette more relaxed and informal.
MOD STYLE For a fresh new take on smart casual, go back through the decades to the swinging Sixties. Think Beatles timeless style mixed with Liam Gallagher cool.
Lovett advises: “Smarten up the look with button-up shirts and tailored denim with a little casualwear thrown into the mix in the form of a classic parka.”
This is one trend where a buttoned-up shirt or polo works for a dressed-down look. Just steer clear of the accompanying tie.
COASTAL PREPPY Pastels and brights might not be your dad’s bag but a nautical-inspired palette is perhaps the most accessible for summer, with flashes of blues and reds.
“For a fresher take on the classic nautical trend, try polos with colour pop strips and bold blue chinos,” suggests Mark Selby, head of buying at BHS.
The nautical trend will take him from lazy day at the beach through to evening BBQ celebration. Just add button-down outerwear or a summer knit when temperatures cool.
TROPICAL FLORALS Best reserved for non-wallflowers, the Hawaiian shirt is back and it’s bolder than ever.
“Whether it’s a Hawaiian palm print shirt or hibiscus patterned shorts, be bright and bold this summer with the season’s hottest tropical trend,” Selby says.
The key to working a vacation-style floral statement piece is to ensure the rest of the outfit is pared-back and understated.
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