Fashion

The Dad Sandal … But Make It Fashion

Published

Having lived through the dad jean, the dad short and the dad sneaker eras, you may have thought that using your old man as a fashion muse had come to an end but we wouldn’t speak too soon because Summer 2020 has landed us in the depths of Dad Sandal season (with a little help from Chanel) and it is safe to say they are certainly an acquired taste.

If we asked you to picture the classic Dad Sandal, you would most probably imagine an earthy colour scheme, velcro straps, a chunky sole and dare we say it? The ability to unapologetically pair them with socks. But maybe that is what is so ground-breaking about this fashion trend? The fact it sounds as if it should defy all elements of fashion but somehow it works?

Ultimately, this is the marmite of the fashion world, you will either love it or hate it, but regardless this nostalgic trend may take a moment to sink in no matter how much of an upgrade they may have.

We have handpicked some of our favourite reinventions of the classic two strap sandal, so for those who love the style, feel free to indulge and for those who are still sitting on the fence, let us change your minds.

There is truly nothing better than when comfort meets fashion, right? For an authentic walking sandal Teva are now at the height of both practicality and style, meaning our feet can be supported all day but still look effortlessly on trend.

Teva Hurricane Drift Sandal – £30
Teva Hurricane Drift Sandal – £30

It is no secret that Urban Outfitters are always at the top of their game when it comes to their creative vision and innovative designs, and their nostalgic approach to the dad sandal is no different. The Iets Frans and UO chunky styles are the perfect sporty take on the trend.

Iets Frans Sport Sandals – £45
UO Sporty Sandals – £45

For a brand that never fail to perfectly execute their take on a high end alternative at an affordable price, Zara have released a host of chunky platform and slimline dad style sandals that we are about to live in for the Summer months ahead.

Animal Print Flat Sandals – £29.99
Chunky Sole Flat Sports Sandals – £49.99

For a sport luxe alternative to the classic double strap sandal, Fila have fused both the dad sneaker and dad sandal trends. The contemporary, bright white colourway and chunky platform of the Disruptor paired with the authentic velcro straps establishes the perfect balance between old school and new school fashion.

Fila Disruptor Half Sandal – £60
Fila Disruptor Sandal – £65

If you always favour a minimalism aesthetic and would rather reach for muted colour palettes, simplistic designs and understated styles, family run brand Camper are your answer to perfectly nailing the dad sandal trend in the most unique and versatile fashion.

Balloon – £110
Balloon – £110

If there was ever a time for contrasting colours, bold designs and clashing prints, it was to reinvent and elevate the classic toned down dad sandal. Kurt Geiger‘s Olivia platforms serve us all kinds of uplifting, retro 60s vibes that are the perfect Summer statement shoes.

Olivia Sporty Sandals – £129
Olivia Sporty Sandals – £129

As we approach the height of Summer, now might be a right time to swap your staple pair of Dr Marten boots for their cutting edge Clarissa platform sandals. Although the shoe is the perfect grunge, urban alternative to the dad sandal trend, it still retains a sense of timeless classic style that will never date.

Clarissa II Quad Platform Sandals – £129
Clarissa II Metal Detail Leather Sandals – £129

For a more chic, minimalist and elegant sandal, these Joshua Sanders wedges are the perfect balance between effortless style and practicality. The fresh white chunky sole, sleek design and muted colour palette make this take on the dad sandal trend every bit feminine.

Spice Wedges – £200
Spice Wedges – £200

If athletic styles aren’t really for you and you favour a more dressed up, elegant solution to the dad sandal trend, MSGM‘s wraparound sandals are the perfect investment piece for the Summer months ahead. The toe post, platform sole and lace up gladiator style gives the sandal a feminine yet fun and urban update.

Wraparound Strap Low Heel – £285
Sliders With Leather Strap – £310

When it comes to pioneering sartorial trends, Prada never fall off the mark, and their old school sporty take on the classic dad sandal is no exception. The black platform sole, authentic branding and urban finish make these sandals the ultimate street style favourite to invest in.

Nomad Logo Strap Sandals – £420
Nomad Logo Strap Sandals – £420
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