The '90s Dad Fashion Trend Is Still Going Strong
It's a transformation similar to those from a classic monster movie: by the time it happens, it's already too late. We're talking about stereotypical '90s dad style, complete with its baggy trousers, long socks, polo shirts, and vests. You may have noticed this aesthetic rapidly growing in popularity over the past year or so, alongside the likes of fairycore and light academia. Models, actresses, and influencers are skipping the heels and reaching for classic chunky loafers ('90s dad!), or fully embracing baggy jeans and khaki pants (also very '90s dad!). It's a comfortable, cool, and very practical look, and more often than not, it leaves us feeling nostalgic.
I can't help but notice how much this trend seems to be inspired by our favorite sitcom father figures, such as Danny Tanner from Full House or Uncle Phil The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. '90s dad style is everywhere — and honestly, we're kinda surprised it took us this long to realize these men were true fashion icons.
Of course, there are multiple variations and levels to this trend. There's '90s office dad, which is the vibe we get from suits or trousers paired with structured pieces like button-downs and finished off with sneakers (commuting dad!) or oxfords (work meeting dad!). There's also the version that leans more toward athleisure. It's the team coach, kick-back-and-relax '90s dad, slipping on some New Balances with a windbreaker or fleece.
Somewhere in between, you've got weekend casual '90s dad, who's ready to grill or teach someone to ride a bike. It consists of the polo shirt paired with jeans and long socks, or just a pair of khakis styled with a loose tee. The celebrity crowd makes it seem fresh and elevated, but somewhere deep down, we know who wore it first.
Ahead, we're rounding up some '90s dad essentials for you to shop, since this trend seems to be sticking around. You might even feel the urge to snap a selfie once your outfit is complete and send it to the best, real, OG '90s dad you know.
Zara Oversized Knitwear Vest
Shop now: $40; zara.com
Athleta Midtown Shirt
Shop now: $98; atheleta.com
Everlane The Cotton–Merino Polo
Shop now: $68; everlane.com
New Balance 990v5 Sneaker
Shop now: $185; nordstrom.com
Urban Outfitters '47 New York Yankees Classic Baseball Hat
Shop now: $29; urbanoutfitters.com
BAACAL Utility Pant
Shop now: $298; 11honore.com
12 Storeez Knitted Polo Collar Dress
Shop now: $95 (Originally $122); farfetch.com
Daily Paper Grey Eshield T-Shirt
Shop now: $55; dailypaper.com
Comme Si The Merino Sock
Shop now: $38; commesi.com
J. Crew Slouchy Boyfriend Chino Pant
Shop now: $90; jcrew.com
Franco Sarto Balin Platform Loafer
Shop now: $89; nordstrom.com
Good American Good '90s Ripped High Waist Relaxed Jeans
Shop now: $149; nordstrom.com
Ganni Recycled Rubber Sandals
Shop now: $235; shopbop.com
The North Face Nuptse® 1996 Packable 700-Fill Power Down Vest
Shop now: $199; nordstrom.com
GapFit Polar Fleece Jacket
Shop now: $100 (Originally $118); gap.com
Adidas Adicolor Classics Firebird Primeblue Track Pants
Shop now: $70; adidas.com
Noize Emilia Windbreaker
Shop now: $120; noize.com
Madewell Linen-Blend Track Trousers
Shop now: $70; madewell.com