Grandpacore is like raiding your grandfather’s closet and realizing he was low-key dripping the whole time. Cardigans, pleated trousers, patterned vests, chunky socks with loafers, and those wool caps he wore to the grocery store, all of it suddenly feels fresh again. It’s retro, but not costumey.
Grandpacore is not about looking like an old man that’s getting ready to hit Denny’s early bird special. It’s a refined and a bit eclectic, turning something traditionally outdated and unfashionable into a look. The aesthetic celebrates chunky knits, loose trousers, and old-school accessories, but it flips them into outfits that feel intentional and trendy.
Sometimes the coolest style is not the coolest or the flashiest, but it’s about giving that classic Paw Paw meets hipster feel, and making it your own thing. And of course, celebrities like Tyler the Creator and Brooklyn Beckham regularly roc grandpacore outfits, when they’re not in their red carpet designer get ups.
What is Grandpacore?
Grandpacore is inspired by the kind of clothing that filled your grandfather’s closet. Think cardigan sweaters, pleated trousers, wool caps, patterned vests, and loafers paired with thick socks. At first glance these pieces might look outdated. But when styled intentionally, they become a mix of vintage charm and contemporary cool.
The magic of grandpacore is a vibe that’s a mix of “retirement home” and “street-style with soul.” On TikTok, creators laugh about dressing like they’re headed to shuffleboard at the senior center, but the comment sections are full of people admitting they’d actually wear the look. It’s ironic, but not a joke.
Grandpacore has a wink to it. It’s cozy, funny, and self-aware, but it also has undeniable style. It includes unique and timeless clothing pieces and accessories that will have people questioning if you just bought that recently or raided grandpappy’s closet.
Grandpacore Essential Clothing Pieces
The grandpacore wardrobe is full of character, versatile, and easy to put together. The good part, much like your gramps, you don’t need to follow and up with the latest trends. Here are the staples to start with.
Cardigans and sweaters
An oversized knit cardigan is the centerpiece of the look. Go for chunky textures, bold patterns, or muted vintage shades. Patterned sweaters with argyle or stripes also fit perfectly.
Pleated trousers
Loose fitting trousers with pleats are non-negotiable. They add volume and create that relaxed, grandpa silhouette. Wide leg cuts feel the most authentic, and high waists give it the classic 1920’s aesthetic.
Loafers and brogues
Leather loafers, penny loafers, or classic brogues ground the outfit. The twist is pairing them with visible socks. White or patterned socks peek out above the shoe and become part of the look.
Chunky Dad Sneakers
If you’re more of a sneakerhead, go for some chunky dad sneakers. They’re comfy and versatile as they can be paired with trousers for a more casual look, or even with jorts or joggers. A clean pair with minimal flare, like a pair of white Asics or Reeboks are affordable and good for daily wear.
Camp collar shirts
Camp collar shirts have an open, notched collar and are worn more loose and relaxed. Short sleeve shirts with open collars give the aesthetic a playful vibe, like a Hawaiian shirt, minus the bright, tropical patterns. Classic prints and bold colors are ideal, especially when layered under a cardigan.
Vintage blazers
Tweed or wool blazers with boxy fits and textured fabrics bring extra personality. These can be thrown over trousers and knitwear for a full retro finish.
Accessories
Flat caps, suspenders, chunky glasses, and quirky pocket squares push the look further. The idea is to add details that feel charmingly old-school and not costumey.
Grandpacore Outfit Ideas
The good thing about grandpacore, is you probably already have many of the essentials in your (or your grandpa’s) closet already. It’s just a matter of grabbing some classic pieces and pairing them together with a bit of finesse.
Coffee Shop Grandpacore
Go with a chunky knit cardigan in a muted olive or burgundy, worn over a tucked-in camp collar shirt with subtle vertical stripes. Pair it with wide leg pleated wool trousers in a stone or grey tone. Finish with dark brown tassel loafers or chunky dad sneakers, and patterned socks that peek out when seated. Accessorize with a leather satchel and tortoise shell glasses to give the look a sharp, intellectual edge.
Recommended:
- Runcati Shawl Cardigan Sweater
- Dockers Men’s Classic Fit Signature Lux Cotton Stretch Pants
- Reebok Men’s Glide Sneakers
Weekend Party Grandpacore
Pick a statement cardigan with bold colors, worn open over a button up shirt for more dressed up occasions, or a cool retro print shirt for casual vibes. Style it with wide leg jeans or trousers in black or dark khaki for a classier look. Chunky, casual loafers or even a clean pair of dad sneakers should be fine for most non-formal occasions. Throw on a flat newspaper boy cap or suspenders, and accessorize with subtle jewelry, like a vintage watch, to add a bit of modern bling to your old man ‘fit.
Recommended:
- The Men’s Colorful Cardigan Knitwear
- Levi’s Men’s 569 Loose Straight Fit Jeans
- Herringbone Flat Ivy Newsboy Cap
Date Night Grandpacore
Opt for a bold argyle sweater vest layered over a crisp oxford shirt in light blue. Style it with tailored high-rise trousers in charcoal and a vintage tweed blazer. On your feet, polished black brogues or monk strap shoes add a sleek contrast to the cozy top layers. Slip in a silk pocket square or vintage tie pin for a hint of charm that feels romantic but still very stylish.
Recommended:
Office/Professional Grandpacore
Start with a simple knitted or textured wool cardigan in neutral color like deep navy or charcoal, worn neatly buttoned over a crisp white dress shirt. Pair it with slim-pleated wool trousers in a mid-brown or subtle pinstripe for a tailored but relaxed silhouette. Swap stiff oxfords for brown leather penny loafers or sleek derby shoes that keep the vibe office appropriate but relaxed. Finish with a leather briefcase and understated metal-frame glasses. It’s professional enough for the boardroom but still carries that laid-back, vintage grandpa charm.
Recommended:
Why Grandpacore is Trending Now
Fashion always cycles through nostalgia, but grandpacore resonates for a few reasons. Comfort is one of them and is the current trend. Men are tired of skinny cuts and stiff tailoring. Grandpacore swaps that out for relaxed cuts, cozy knits, and trousers you can actually sit down in
It also just feels unique. Hoodies and hype sneakers are everywhere; a grandpacore fit instantly separates you from the pack. A slouchy cardigan with pleated pants isn’t just comfortable, it’s a quiet flex. It says you know who you are, and you don’t need a giant logo across your chest to prove it. Why rock Balenciaga sneakers that look like socks, when you can rock thick crew socks with chunky dad sneakers that may even have orthopedic benefits?!
Also Read:
- What To Wear: Shirts For Men With Broad Shoulders
- Elevating Style: How To Wear High-Waisted Pants For Men
