The Power Of A Trend
Getting Ready Time: 29 minutes. Finding the right t-shirt is harder than you think. Especially if you have to look for it in a pile on the floor.
I must confess, even though I work as a stylist (and therefore should know better), I too occasionally succumb to the latest trend craze. The fact that often the trend in question is utterly ridiculous and fast fleeting makes no difference what so ever.
Take the ‘dad’ sneaker. It is the perfect example. Let’s be real: they are ugly, they are heavy, and they will be on their way out in 9-12 months. On top of that, the original designer versions such as Balenciaga Tripple S, Louis Vuitton Archlight and to some extend Yeezy Desert Rat, also cost the same as the dreamiest pair of Manolo Blahniks (or two weeks rent, if you want to be all practical about it). The only potential positive of the ‘dad’ sneakers is the fact that they make your ankles look more dainty than the regular trainer. And even that is a stretch. So yes, they are not exactly the black cashmere jumper of the fashion world.
And yet, I can not help but like them. Perhaps it’s the innate attitude that comes with wearing them. A girl wearing such a spectacularly ugly shoe could never be accused of trying too hard. Even if you pair them with the tiniest of the mini skirts, you will never come off as overdressed. After all, isn’t that what we all want? To look attractive, fun and stylish without looking like we’ve spent all morning getting dressed? And perhaps this trend is a total fad, but sometimes the joy of wearing something that makes you smile is worth it.
How To Style Dad Trainers:
So here is a little bit of advice if you like this particular trend, but don’t know how to style it:
- For those of you with long and slender legs, I would suggest wearing them with a mini skirt and an oversised shirt. You can tuck it in or leave it out- it will look cool either way.
- If you do not feel comfortable in a mini, you could pair the sneakers with a long flowy skirt. Or a maxi dress. I think a dress with a small flowery pattern would look amazing with dad sneakers, as it creates a strong feminine/masculine contrast.
- And if you prefer trousers to a skirt, you can always wear them with a suit, as I have done. The only rules here is to stay clear of the skinny tailored types and go instead for a more laid back loose cut. And stick to cropped trousers that show your ankles. They will visibly make you taller and leaner, which is essential, as this type of footwear can make you appear bulkier than you are.
Photographer: Kit Lee
Last, but not least, here are some more of my favourite dad sneakers. Different brands, different budgets, different colour ways. xx
- 60 mm Jeffrey Campbell sneakers
- Stella McCartney Eclypse sneakers
- Vetements X Reebok Logo Instapump Fury sneakers
- Fila Disruptor II sneakers
- Balenciaga Tripple S sneakers
- Nike Air Max 98 leather sneakers
- Topshop Ciara Chunky trainers
- Acne Studios Manhattan suede sneakers
- Adidas Crazy BYW sneakers
P. S. Full disclosure. I initially bought the Topshop pair, and while they fit very well and look amazing, they are not made out of breathable material. My feet have never been so hot and sweaty in my entire life.
I’m wearing: pink suit by Zara (it’s on sale now!), ‘Feminist AF’ t-shirt by Jonathan Simkhai (similar sentiment, but a different fit and a better price by Romwe here) bag by Balenciaga, trainers by Louis Vuitton.
