It's official: We're taking a step away from "coastal grandma" and diving deep into the world of grandpa-core. As you read this, picture the attire of your grandfather (or any older male figure in your life for that matter). Their wardrobe is often sophisticated, but not in the modern way, and still relishes in the vintage fashion of their youth. That's the essence of the “eclectic grandpa” trend, the latest style craze thats taking over.
"Eclectic grandpa” consists of mainly browns, camels and other tan-toned clothing, and you'll often see this color scheme in variations of oversized blazers, tailored pants, chunky soles, calf-length socks, cozy cardigans and tweed fabric.
Although "eclectic grandpa" is a recent trend, fashion and beauty expert Melissa Chataigne previously stopped by TODAY to share some of her recommendations on how to achieve the look. From a corduroy suit set to oversized cardigans, Chataigne's picks will have you feeling like you raided your grandpa's closet — in a good way, of course.
"Eclectic grandpa" items seen on TODAY
Lucy Paris Corduroy Suit Set
You can even dress up “eclectic grandpa” for the office, suggests Chataigne. Her suggestion on how to make the look suitable for the office incorporates this two-piece suit. The corduroy fabric leans into the trend, while the slim fit makes the suit more feminine.
The matching corduroy pant will give any outfit a more sophisticated look. Even better? You can dress them up or down with boots or sneakers.
Trina Turk Favored Vest
Don't shy away from a patterned vest. Trina Turk's Favored Vest is full of personality and will surely make the simplest looks stand out.
Editor’s note: For a similar style, check out Chataigne's alternative pick below:
SweatyRocks Women’s Plaid Sweater Vest
This casual sweater vest comes in an array of color patterns and styles to spice up your outfit.
Princess Polly Matilda Sunglasses
The aviator frames and orange tinted lens instantly make this pair of sunnies look like they came out of a vintage shopping catalog.
Editor's note: For a similar style, check out Chataigne’s alternative pick below:
Gabriel Simone Sydney Sunglasses
Here's another aviator style to consider, except they have blue light lenses to filter out blue light from your devices.
SeaVees Royal Runner
It wouldn't be a grandpa-core inspired round up without a classic dad shoe. SeeVees take on the trend brings in bowling-style shoes that are just as comfortable as they look, based on their description.
My Mum Made It Sweet Button Pyjama Pants
Even pajamas can give the "model off duty" look, suggests Chataigne. Stay cozy in this pant from My Mum Made It, which comes in a retro green plaid print.
Lillusory Oversized Cardigan
Keep it casual with this affordable ribbed cardigan that is meant to fit long and be roomy.
SeaVees Bodega Clog
The ugly shoe trend still exists in grandpa-core simply because of the comfort. This shoe from SeaVees prioritizes that, along with making them suitable for rainy weather and various terrains.
Editor’s note: For a similar style, check out Chataigne’s alternative pick below:
Dr. Scholl's Louis Iconic Clog
Clogs don't always require a chunky sole. This clog from Dr. Scholl's is the perfect example of that, and is swift to slide on and off, too.
Baggallini Modern Everywhere Waist Pack Sling
Is it really a grandpa fit without the fanny pack? The convenience of one means you can remain hands-free while your essentials are neatly packed away.
Nasty Gal Check Tailored Wide Leg Pants
We've included plain vests and pajamas in this list, but how about tailored plaid pants? The wide leg in these means most shoe styles could work, from chunky low sneakers to high heels.
Editor’s note: Since Chataigne’s pick is nearly out of stock, see alternatives below:
A New Day Adaptive Seated Fit Pants
We've mentioned a few times that "eclectic grandpa" focuses on comfort. These plaid pants are no short of that with their pull-on style and stretchy front panel.
Princess Polly Harmony Knit Sweater
"The key to nailing the eclectic part of this trend is to keep it vintage," says Chataigne. Opt for shopping second hand, or mixing old and new, such as this knit sweater from Princess Polly.
Jurate LA Pearl Earrings
Pearls add glamour to any look, but are also a timeless piece to include in an equally timeless trend.
Princess Polly Batkins Maxi Skirt
Denim maxi skirts were one of last year's most popular trends. Make this look more modern by adding the style with a basic tee, vest or the sweater above.
Princess Polly Goldsmith Bomber Jacket
"For a bit of texture," Chataigne recommends adding a bomber jacket to the mix. Plus, it can be worn throughout various seasons, too.
Princess Polly Lanter Socks
You might've heard that bows are predicted to be one of 2024's most popular fashion trends. Mash these bow socks with "eclectic grandpa," and you'll be set for the year.
Naturalizer Desi Loafer
This wouldn't be a round-up about grandpa style without a loafer. To make the shoe more versatile and trendy, these Naturalizer loafers have a chunky gold chain across the foot that pairs well with gold accessories.
H&M V-Neck Blouse
You can never go wrong with a classic button up. While it may be a style you opt for the office, it can also be dressed down for more casual, everyday wear.
Nasty Gal Tailored Straight Leg Trousers
A tailored pant is one of the key essentials for achieving the “eclectic grandpa” look. Opt for a straight leg like this Nasty Gal trousers to elongate the legs.
Editor’s note: For a similar style, check out Chataigne’s alternative pick below:
Nasty Gal Premium Waistband Detail Pants
After all, grandpa fashion is all about the layers, so it is evident why these double waistband pants made this list.
Princess Polly Cassie Trench Coat
For when you don't want to wear a heavy jacket, a trench coat makes for the perfect solution. Plus, trench coats work year-round, regardless of the season.
Dr. Scholl's Time Off Knit Slip On Sneaker
If you're looking for your next staple shoe, a white sneaker, such as this slip-on style from Dr. Scholl's, pairs with an array of outfits, "eclectic grandpa" included.
More "eclectic grandpa" picks
Nollsom Women Casual Button Down
Depending on how you style it, button-downs can be dressed up or casual for a variety of occasions. According to the brand, this button-down top is made of 100% cotton and comes in 10 colorways.
Old Navy Mary Jane Flats
Mary Jane shoes come in various forms: Platform, loafer, velcro-strap — to name a few. But this option comes in a sling-back flat so you can swiftly throw on with any of the picks in this list.
Abercrombie & Fitch Chenille Cardigan
The loose cropped fit in Abercrombie’s Chenille Cardigan makes it easy-to-throw on when you’re unsure what to wear. And right now, you can grab it for 20% off.
Splendid The Classic Turtleneck
Sweaters can lose their shape over time, but according to the brand, this top will snap back to its original form every time. While it is form-fitting, the stretchy cotton-modal blend fabric promises to move with you and comfortably hug your curves.
Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love Sloane Tailored Pant
Finding the right pair of trousers is just as complicated as finding a good pair of jeans. But Abercrombie provides a solution with most of their bottoms offerings, including their Sloane Tailored Pant. For instance, it comes in regular and curve sizing, which claims to eliminate waist gap for curvier customers. Plus, the brand offers extra short, short, regular and tall lengths for the right fit.
Free People Found My Friend Cardi
For a more chic take on the oversized cardigan, this option from Free People is textured and soft with a cropped silhouette. It makes for the perfect opportunity to wear your favorite pair of high-waisted pants or jeans.
Converse Custom Chuck Taylor All Star By You
Eclectic grandpa is unique to the wise male figure in your life, but these custom high-top Converse sneakers are made specially for you. Personalize these shoes with a print or color of your choosing, and add other details to make them one-of-a-kind, including updating the laces and adding patches.
Anthropologie The Love Knot Slouchy Bag
To fit all your grandpa-esque sweaters and books, of course. Anthropologie’s The Love Knot Slouchy Bag is just as spacious as it looks, with one large main compartment that can fit a laptop and a removable zip pouch to store other necessities.
Djerf Avenue Ready Set Go Cardigan
When it comes to cardigans, you can play with buttons, pullovers, tweeds and other styles to achieve this trend. But cable-knit is a timeless stitching you might’ve seen in their closet because like this one, it is defined, ribbed and seamless throughout.
Aritzia The Effortless Pant
This trouser from Aritzia is described as a tailored-relaxed pant that hits high at the waist and perfectly at the ankle, depending on your height and the length you select (short, regular or tall).
The Coach Outlet Liz Watch, 24 Mm
If you're unsure how to accessorize this trend, a classic watch, such as this one from The Coach Outlet, could elevate the most simplest looks with its gold hardware and leather strap.
Aritzia Synergy Bomber
You can never go wrong with a classic leather jacket. Made with vegan leather, this jacket will surely be a staple in your closet, and might just be one in your grandfather’s closet, too.
Aritzia Phase Trench Coat
One of the most common outwear pieces you’ll find in your grandfather’s closet is a trench coat, and Aritzia offers this timeless style with a modern flare. According to the brand, the double-breasted coat features a linen-blend fabric with a drape-y and relaxed shape. If you want a more fitted look, reviewers say it runs large, so you might want to size down.
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