Dad shoes, or the ugly turned trendy shoes, have been around for a long time. They are super cool, look amazing on everyone and go with almost every outfit. Who would expect that your dad and the Spice Girls would have something in common?! Well, they do: the dad shoe. Your dad used to wear the shoes all the time and we bet you had never thought of embracing the oversize trainers. But hey, there’s no need to argue over fashion. We tell you what a dad shoe is, how to recognize it and, even more essential: how to style the chunky trainers without looking like you played dress up with your dad’s clothes!
What is a dad shoe?
Dad shoes are clunky, thick-soled lace-up trainers. The shoes are inspired by the 90s trainers that used to be worn by our not so style-conscious dads. The trainers of yore have been rejuvenated, keeping the thick soles and ultimate comfort. The dad shoes are also known as ugly trainers or oversized sneakers.
In 2017, the trainers with the 90s vibe, re-entered the fashion world on the Balenciaga catwalk. Celebs like Kim Kardashian, Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner just fell in love with the Balenciaga Triple S trainers and a new iconic shoe was a fact. Not much later other (more affordable) brands dusted off their old trainers and turned them into dad shoes.
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Dad shoes VS platform trainers
The terms dad shoes and platform trainers seem to be interchangeable, but there are differences. Platform means the height of the sole, but dad shoes are all about the shape of the sole. The sole of a dad shoe is often chunkier at the back than at the front, and usually has wavy grooves. Platform shoes are characterized by massive thick soles, and come in sandals, boots or trainers. The word ‘dad’ is typical for kicks.
How to style dad shoes
The dad-shoe trend is here to stay and essential for your wardrobe. But how do you style dad shoes without looking like your not so fashion-conscious dad from the 90s? We give you some ideas for you to rock the dad shoes!
Dad shoes with skirt and T-shirt
Skirts and trainers are a match made in heaven, but pairing your skirt (or dress) with dad shoes will make heads turn. Wear your mini or midi skirt with a T-shirt and a pair of white dad shoes. Super cute on cooler summer days!
Dad shoes with socks
Are you a daredevil and not afraid to shock? Then wear your dad shoes with white socks! Wearing high sports socks and trainers used to be the biggest fashion disaster ever, but it’s become a huge trend. You can wear anything with your dad shoes and socks and look amazing: from jeans to dresses to work trousers.
Dad shoes with sporty cycling shorts and an oversized shirt
Two trends that we swore we would never wear ever again have become the ultimate outfit for fashionistas around the globe. For the ultimate trendiest outfit on warmer days, you team cycling shorts with an oversized shirt and dad shoes.
Dad shoes with a business suit
Did you think that you could only wear dad shoes with a casual outfit? Think again! Style your dad shoes with a coloured business suit for an elegant yet sporty look.
Dad shoes with jeans and shirt
Getting dressed in the morning has never been easier! All you need are jeans, a crispy shirt and dad shoes for an effortless and stylish look. Less is always more!
5x famous dad shoes
Dad shoes are hot, hip and happening and nearly every brand carries at least one dad shoe in their collection. But there are a few brands that stand out from the crowd. They are immensely popular and we bet you already know them. You can’t ignore these 5 most famous dad shoes brands!
#1 Balenciaga Triple S
It all started with the Balenciaga Triple S. The Triple S is the ultimate dad shoe: the chunky sole, the grooves and amazing comfort: the Balenciaga Triple S has it all. The upper is made of a combination of leather and mesh. The striking logos make everyone notice the genuine Balenciagas on your feet.
#2 Fila Disruptor
When you say ‘dad shoes’, you say Fila Disruptor! Even though the Disruptor was released in the 90s, they gained popularity decades later. The chunky sole with serrated bottom features an EVA midsole for maximum comfort. The chunky sole and the Fila logo on the side give the Disruptor the real ‘dad shoe’ sensation.
#3 Adidas Ozweego
The Adidas Ozweego cannot be missed from the list of famous dad shoes. The chunky sole and the layered upper remind you of the Adidas Classics of the late 90s. The Adidas Ozweego is all about comfort: the EVA midsole has adiprene cushioning for a bouncy feeling while walking.
#4 Nike M2K Tekno
The Nike M2K Tekno is a staple in the das shoe trend and really belongs in this list. The M2K Tekno is the successor of the 2002 Nike Air Monarch IV, but with a contemporary streetwear silhouette. The futuristic sole is striking for this model, just like the initial release; the Nike M2K Tekno was initially introduced as women’s trainers. Due to its popularity, a men’s version was made as well.
#5 Puma RS-X
The Puma RS-X were released in the 80s and really belong to the dad shoe trend. The classic design has had a make-over and is now stronger and cooler than ever. The chunky sole is inspired by the sports world. Both the looks and comfort of the Puma RS-X are amazing.
