The '90s Dad Fashion Trend Is Still Going Strong

Posted by Kelle Repass on Monday, June 17, 2024

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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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Shop now: $40; zara.com

Athleta Midtown Shirt

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Available at Athleta.gap

Shop now: $98; atheleta.com

Everlane The Cotton–Merino Polo

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Available at Pngtrac

Shop now: $68; everlane.com

New Balance 990v5 Sneaker

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Available at Nordstrom, Newbalance

Shop now: $185; nordstrom.com

Urban Outfitters '47 New York Yankees Classic Baseball Hat

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Available at Urbanoutfitters

Shop now: $29; urbanoutfitters.com

BAACAL Utility Pant

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Available at Shareasale

Shop now: $298; 11honore.com

12 Storeez Knitted Polo Collar Dress

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Available at Farfetch

Shop now: $95 (Originally $122); farfetch.com

Daily Paper Grey Eshield T-Shirt

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Available at Dailypaperclothing

Shop now: $55; dailypaper.com

Comme Si The Merino Sock

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Available at Commesi

Shop now: $38; commesi.com

J. Crew Slouchy Boyfriend Chino Pant

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Available at Jcrew

Shop now: $90; jcrew.com

Franco Sarto Balin Platform Loafer

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Available at Nordstrom, Zappos, Macys

Shop now: $89; nordstrom.com

Good American Good '90s Ripped High Waist Relaxed Jeans

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Available at Nordstrom, Bloomingdales

Shop now: $149; nordstrom.com

Ganni Recycled Rubber Sandals

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Available at Shopbop, Saksfifthavenue

Shop now: $235; shopbop.com

The North Face Nuptse® 1996 Packable 700-Fill Power Down Vest

Available at Nordstrom, Neimanmarcus

Shop now: $199; nordstrom.com

GapFit Polar Fleece Jacket

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Available at Gap

Shop now: $100 (Originally $118); gap.com

Adidas Adicolor Classics Firebird Primeblue Track Pants

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Available at Adidas, Nordstrom, Dickssportinggoods

Shop now: $70; adidas.com

Noize Emilia Windbreaker

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Available at Noize

Shop now: $120; noize.com

Madewell Linen-Blend Track Trousers

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Available at Madewell

Shop now: $70; madewell.com

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