From cargo shorts & sandals to street cool: What the modern dad is wearing

Time of India

13 hours ago

Today's dads are rewriting the rules of fatherhood—not just by how they raise their children but also by how they show up for themselves. Parenting doesn't mean giving up on personal style.
Once known for their love of oversized polos, chunky sneakers and graphic tees, dads are ditching the clichés and embracing a sharper, more self-assured wardrobe. They're wearing clothes that can handle it all: the chaos of school mornings, last-minute grocery runs or surprise client calls.
"Today's dads are embracing clothing that matches their dynamic lives: emotionally intelligent, culturally aware, and self-assured," says Mukul Pratap Singh, founder and creative director of House of Pratap.
This is not just men's fashion—it's dad's fashion: practical, easy, expressive. So, what exactly is the modern papa wearing—and ditching? Let's break it down.
No more 'Dad shoes': Say hello to style-first sneakers
Remember those bulky white trainers dads used to wear to barbecues, football matches, and everywhere in between? Thankfully, they've been retired—along with those awkward velcro sandals. 'Think clean-lined trainers, leather sneakers, or loafers that seamlessly move from playdates to client meetings.
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We're seeing a shift from bulky silhouettes toward footwear that's lightweight, classic, and versatile,' says designer Samiha Jha, director & founder of Sammyukk.
And frankly, fatherhood requires nothing less.
From 'What's clean' to 'what looks good': The everyday upgrade
Dads are no longer dressing in whatever's lying at the top of the laundry pile. There's a deliberate move toward looking sharp and feeling good in the process.
'Outdated favourites like baggy shorts with too many pockets and gaudy graphic tees are being traded for fitted joggers, relaxed chinos, and solid-coloured overshirts,' says Samiha. 'It's all about combining comfort with a sharp, put-together appearance.'
And colour? It's no longer just for the kids' wardrobe. 'It's refreshing to see dads embracing colour— it says a lot about confidence and personality,' adds Firoz Rafi, founder and CEO of Firosha Handpaint.
This isn't about ditching comfort—it's about doing comfort better.
Accessories that speak and not shout
Today's dads are using accessories to tell their own story—whether it's a leather strap watch or a neatly layered chain peeking out from a casual shirt. 'Chunky belts and loud logos are firmly out of the picture. It's all about slim, refined wallets and subtle stacked chains,' says Ravi Gupta, creative designer and director of Gargee Designers. 'Modern dads want comfort, but with a sharper, more sophisticated edge—something that reflects a confident, understated masculinity.
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To this, Jiten Mahendra, customer care associate & chief marketing and communication officer of Shoppers Stop adds, "Today's dads are more discerning and style-conscious than ever. It's not just about what they wear, but how they wear it and how each detail comes together to create a confident, refined look. From fragrances to wallets, belts, and ties, we're seeing a growing preference for accessories that add style, character, and personal expression to every outfit.
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And jewellery is no longer just reserved for weddings or heirlooms. 'Today's dads are embracing jewellery in a stylish but meaningful way,' says Piyush Gupta, director, PP Jewellers by Pawan Gupta. 'Minimal gold chains, sleek bracelets, statement rings—they're choosing designs that reflect their personality while staying timeless.'
Why this shift?
This isn't just a fashion trend—it's a reflection of how fatherhood itself has evolved.
Dads today aren't standing in the background; they're involved, hands-on —and how they dress reflects that.
'More and more men are choosing clothes that reflect who they are, what they believe in, and where they come from,' says Firoz Rafi.
For dads, practicality matters—but so does expression. 'It's no longer just about the outfit,' says fashion designer Harsh Khullar. 'It's about investing in great fit, good fabric, and style that works both at work and at leisure.'
For Ravi Gupta, this style reboot is part of a wider cultural shift. 'Post-pandemic, fashion has become a form of self-care and self-expression. Dads now want clothes that are not only functional but also reflective of their personality—confident, versatile, and thoughtfully styled.'
Dad's new style staples
Forget the old 'Dad Uniform'. Today's father are building wardrobes that define them. A few must-haves include:
Structured blazers (perfect with jeans or formal trousers)
Slim-fit chinos or relaxed joggers
Crossbody bags (ditch the bulky backpack)
Classic shirts in earthy tones
Fresh white sneakers (must be spotless)
Linen kurtas (because weddings and festivals deserve better)
A father's day style swap guide
Old look
New vibe
Cargo shorts
Smart joggers or chinos
Loud graphic tees
Solid tees or overshirts
Flip-flops everywhere
Low-profile trainers
Oversized hoodies
Tailored sweatshirts
Trucker hats
Sleek, minimalist caps
Bulky backpacks
Crossbody or leather sling bags
Inputs by Samiha Jha