Wardrobe Essentials

They’re not just for tech bros anymore. For the dad who wants a hip, but casual look while running out the door, this comfortable and versatile hoodie from Reigning Champ is GQs top all-around choice and ours too. Not only is this hoodie understated and insanely comfortable, it’s available in four solid colors, making it the perfect staple in any wardrobe. We love the white drawstrings. The little pop of contrast makes this hoodie appear effortlessly cool. But the best part is its front kangaroo-pouch pocket. If you’re new to the #DadLife, no words can adequately explain the inherent usefulness of this feature. Guess you’ll just have to trust us!

Before lounge pants, there were sweatpants. Unless you were going to the gym, or up unreasonably early on a Saturday for a game of tackle football in the park, respectable men had little to no reason to wear such things. Fast-forward to today and a good lounge pant is a must-have staple in any man’s closet. If you work from home, slip these babies on in seconds and comfortably head down to your computer for eight hours of uninterrupted Zoom calls. Alternatively, if you’re going out, confidently pair these with a pair of classic all-white sneaks for an intentional look that says, “Yes, I’m comfortable — because that’s how I roll.” And, if it’s your turn for preschool drop-off (again), go forth with the knowledge that you can heft your kid to and from the backseat without wearing jeans and a belt. We love this pair from Cozy Earth, because they feel like pajamas, but look like pants. Plus, pockets! Need we say more?

As fashion goes, ball caps used to be the province of tailgates and sporting events. Until Kendall and Logan Roy turned them into a power move on HBO’s Succession. Suddenly, everyone from rappers to CEOs (and wannabe CEOs) were spotted sporting luxury versions of the classic domepiece. Indeed ball caps are cool again! That’s great news for dads, especially when your significant other taps you for a midnight diaper run. To go all-in on the Kendall Roy look, you can pony up four figures for a Loro Piana baby cashmere original. Or, save the cash and channel the same understated look with the Edgar from Wigens.

Water-resistant boots might not seem like a wardrobe staple. But, as a new dad, you won’t believe how many times you have to jump in and out of your car for stuff — be it the grocery store, the pharmacy, for takeout, the liquor store ;). If you’re doing this in the rain, your shoes (and socks) are going to get wet. Make a splash running errands — and look damn-good doing it — with these luxury water-resistant boots from the Swedish-designed SWIMS. Slide these on with casual clothes when you leave the house, or pair them with a nice pair of jeans for a rare date-night out. The orange soles make a real statement. I speak from experience when I say people will ask you where you got them!

From famed Danish watch-maker Skagen, this modern casual watch sports a sophisticated design, with a bold face and is water-resistant up to 50m (a must for dads!). We love the look of the blue face against the silver frame and black leather strap. It’s elegant, yet functional. A perfect mix for your everyday timepiece.

Nothing says casual, yet successful, like a solid cashmere sweater. This one, from NAADAM, is one of our favorites. It’s insanely soft and has a flattering neckline. Unlike a lot of heavy sweaters, this 100% cashmere option is thin enough for layering and the ribbed neck, cuff and hems make for a good fit that holds even after multiple wears. Dry-clean only, gentlemen.

Another gem from one of our favorite designers. Nobody does casual-urban quite like John Varvatos. This merino blend knit ribbed scarf is perfect for everyday use. Go for a cozy look and feel while working from home, or pair this scarf with your favorite winter jacket and knit hat for a full-on family outing, or a Saturday afternoon running errands. It goes where you go.

When it  comes to accessories, a pair of understated sunglasses are an absolute must for every dad. You’re going to be in and out of stores and on the move constantly — and usually on little to no sleep. The right sunglasses not only hide the bags under your eyes, they level up your fashion game. We love these Tom Fords because they’re subtle, yet sophisticated and utterly cool. Perfect for you.