How To Wear Your Grandpa's Clothes Like A Modern Man
The grandfather aesthetics is still relevant in 2025, and is more than just nostalgia. Here are 5 do
I distinctly remember my grandfather's sharp, well-fitted tailored suit from the 60s, that kept with quite a pride, perfectly pressed, until it was time to say goodbye. Without any fuss elegance, it was inspired by both British tailoring and early Bollywood style. Years later, when he got himself a Sonata watch that he so proudly wears even today, I know the man loves curating his own collection of stylish clothing and accessories. It symbolizes his own individuality, something our generation seems to be missing out on.
For a generation that is hellbent on commercializing every piece of personal style as a micro trend, the entire point of going through your grandfather's wardrobe is to find pieces - sweaters, khaki pants, soft cotton shirts, vintage watches and ties - that have survived despite the unrelenting fashion content we see the social media algorithm feeding us. All about considering a carefree stance.
What started as a niche trend in 2024, the eclectic grandpa style is one of those fashion moments that is meant to last for a long time if not a lifetime. It calls for what you think speaks your style, your comfort, basically what makes you edgy yet classy as a modern man. The fits back in the days were all about high-waisted relaxed vibe, plaided trousers and double-breasted blazers with earthy tones like olive, deep navy and brown.
The knitwear included chucky knitted sweater, mufflers and for footwear it's all loafers and chunky slippers. The grandpa style at its core pays homage to fashion of our grandparents' era, because who will actually not want a comfortable and cosy fabric to wrap around!
So, what are the 5 dos to make sure that your grandpa look doesn't feel like the last decade no one wants to know about?
Mixing Old With The New
Duh! While most things about your grandad's wardrobe might be like unboxing nostalgia, you don't need to move everything from his closet to yours! Pick items that feel like a you statement and tell a story that speaks to your own individuality.
Avoid looking like a museum exhibit, please. Pair a pastel blazer with a striped tee, for instance, slim-fit chinos with loafers, or polo shirts with an acid-washed high-rise jeans. The contrast helps balance the vintage with modern.
Tuck-In For A Sharp Look
If you go through an old catalogue from the 80s or even your grandparent's photo album, you'll notice men had their shirts and T-shirts tucked in. If it's your comfort, go for a tucked-in look with your favourite jeans to ace that structured yet effortless look.
Also, layer up for a modern vintage twist by throwing a lightweight bomber or vintage denim jacket with chinos pants and retro sunglasses and a watch and you get your modern yet classy vibe check.
Accessorize Like A Gentleman
Remember less is always more. A leather-strapped vintage watch, tortoiseshell sunglasses and woven belt even tote bags can add function and old-money charm without looking too modern.
The Grandpa Sweater
Although Macklemore isn't a fashion trendsetter, but he was serious about stealing our grandpa's clothes (song reference: Thrift Shop) to turn it into a mainstream flex. However, grandpa style goes beyond just vintage finds at a Thrift store.
Cable-knit is the classic grandpa style, layer it with a shirt and a classic denim or corduroy pants.
Classic Tartan
Depending on the season, you can pull out a classic tartan blazer as well as trousers and pair it with a solid turtleneck or a plain tee-shirt. Like scarfs? You can throw that in too. The secret is not to overdo it and sticking to neutral palates.