How Dads Can Update Their Wardrobe
If you’re feeling like your wardrobe and style could use some updating, then this guide is for you. Here’s how dads can update their wardrobe!
by Atomic Mommy Editors
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You may be a dad, but your wardrobe doesn’t necessarily have to scream it. You can still look hot and sexy, but only if you have a few of the wardrobe staples we’re about to list. To give you a better understanding of what a staple piece of clothing is, they are articles of clothing that can be worn any season, matched with anything, and can be worn anywhere.
Since pricey clothes are usually a big no-no for dads, the list below is only going to include wardrobe pieces that are affordable, and places to find them. Plus, you will be able to interchange these items with the clothes you already own. So, let’s get you set up to be Ryan Gosling and not Steve Carell in Crazy, Stupid, Love!
Cargo Pants & Shorts
Cargo pants are probably one of the most comfortable things you can wear. It’s highly interchangeable, and that’s why this piece of clothing made it on our list. It’s extremely durable, and if you get the right brand, they will offer moisture wicking and water resistance. Try not to go for the old style from the late 90s, early 2000s. Try the new modern sleek look. You’ll be surprised by how fashionable they can look. See the photo below to see the difference.
To pick out the best cargo pants for men means having to do some research on the internet to help you find a pair that is highly rated. Read a few of the positive and negative reviews, as well. This will help you determine which brand is right for you. We find that Amazon is best for this and also has some of the most affordable options. The best part is that you can wear any one of your t-shirts, button-ups, and sweaters with these.
Button-Up Sweater
Sweater season is no joke and the button-up styles that are now available are extremely stylish, smart, and affordable. You can pair these with a t-shirt, cargo shorts or pants, jeans, and even dress pants. It’s all about the kind of image you want to portray.
Button-up sweaters come in all different sizes, colors, and with varying price tags. Wear them with a pair of boots, jeans, and a tee, and you’ll present an image of smart yet easy-going. Put it on with dress pants, loafers, and a collared shirt, you’ll look business casual. And if you rather exude comfort, then throw this on over a graphic tee with skinny sweatpants and Ugg slippers.
The key to making this piece of clothing work for you is making sure you have items in your closet that go with it. And as we shared some of these items, you probably already own a few.
Slim Fit Jogger Pants
This is another great option to have in your closet, as it too, can be worn with anything. It’s super comfy, often has pockets for wallets and phones, and depending on the material – can be light and airy or thick for cold winter months. The reason why this item is a perfect piece to spruce up your wardrobe is because of the modern ankle fit versus the elastic band version from the 90s. These pants can also be worn to other places than the home. You can put on a pair with a nice tee and jacket, and all of a sudden you’ll look like you’re headed out to the local bar to hang with friends.
Graphic Tees
The graphic tees of today are extremely unique, personal, and full of creative art. From band tees to movie tees to comic tees and the like, a graphic tee says a lot about who you are as a person. Think of using these as an extension of your personality. And what’s so amazing about these is that you can wear them literally anywhere and with anything. Imagine yourself working in a top business, walking into work with a two-piece suit on but instead of wearing a button up shirt, you’re wearing a graphic tee. This will not only show people you have some serious style but it can also be a huge update to your boring daily routine. Not to mention, it’s a great conversation starter.
Two-Piece Suit
Unfortunately, no matter how old you are or the type of job you have, a two-piece suit is still a mandatory item to have in your closet. As a matter of fact, it’s probably a good idea to own two of them.
The reason for this is because you’ll need one for funerals and wakes and memorials, so a sleek black suit in your closet is a must-have. Separately from black, you’ll also want another suit. This one can be any color, but it needs to be modern and up to date with today’s fashion. The good news is that both suits can be used interchangeably. Black is not always for sad days. The second piece of good news, fashionably modern suits don’t have to break the bank. Places like Menswear and the like offer a ton of savings and free measurements. Once you know you’re measurements, you can go anywhere for a suit including Amazon.
Watch, Sunglasses, Hats
These are what’s known as accessories. You may not need them, but they enhance every outfit. The right watch can make a business deal happen. The right sunglasses can have you feeling like a million bucks. The right hat can make you feel laid back and easy going. The same way these accessories can make you feel a certain way, they can help you exude that feeling to others.
You don’t have to run to Cartier to buy a watch, or nay other luxury brand to make these purchases. If you shop around long enough, you’ll find that Cartier and Target have similar styles for watches, sunglasses, and hats. Target just has better prices and doesn’t have the luxury title. So before you go spend a fortune on these items, do your homework. Wal-Mart has plenty of viable options for alternatives to the luxury brands.
Jeans
Every guy needs a good pair of jeans, and should probably have one for each category of comfort. For example, you could have a pair of work jeans that are loose and soft. You could own a pair of jeans that are modern, have a slim fit, and in different colors for those nights you go out. And you could have a pair of jeans that are more suite for casual business events. Jeans are also a great way to express yourself, so don’t stop at owning just one pair.
The only thing about jeans- they’re expensive. On the other hand, they can last upwards of 10 to 20 years if you buy the right quality, and since they last so long, they often withstand the test of fashion and time. Look at women’s bell bottoms, they’ve made an appearance every 20 or so years since first seen in the U.S. in 1967. So, when choosing jeans, make sure you consider more than just cost- be sure to factor in quality, environmental cost, and comfort.
Boots
Every man should own a great pair of boots! Boots are an essential part of the wardrobe. You can wear them with jeans, dress pants, men’s skirts, and if done right, even shorts.
Try to choose a color that matches several pieces of clothing in your closet. For example, if most of the clothes you own have an earthy base, then brown boots would be best. If you own the darker shades of night like blues, grays, and blacks, then a black pair of boots might be best.
Boots can also be pricey. This depends on several factors like brand, material, and method of manufacture. Handmade boots are often the priciest, but have the least impact on the environment. Mass produced boots are harmful to the environment, but can be most cost effective. Sure a pair of handmade leather boots from Italy might seem the best option, but a pair of WalMart boots can offer the same comfort and fashion statement. So before buying, make sure you let your feet do the researching.
Sneakers
If you’re going to wear sneakers, do yourself a favor, and do some research on what it is you’re looking for. If you’re looking for fashion-forward sneakers, then you’re not going to want to choose the same pairs as the elderly man down the street. Not that there’s anything wrong with those sneakers- they just play a different role and that is comfort.
So before buying sneakers, make sure you have a few things pat down. Figure out why you’re buying them, then figure out what you’ll be using them for, and then figure out the style you’re after. Don’t think of cost first on this one, because we have seen thousands of fashionable sneakers being sold on Amazon, Target, and WalMart for affordable prices, yet they are nothing but pain mongers.
The Takeaway
The above fashion tips are meant as a guide to help you boost your wardrobe while also maintaining comfort, style, and affordability. While these may not be the only staple items you need in your closet, these are definitely the basics.
