In 2025, fashion has officially rolled out the red carpet for the cardigan-wearing, sock-and-sandal-sporting grandpa aesthetic. But don’t get it twisted. This isn’t about raiding your actual grandfather’s closet (well, not entirely). Enter grandpacore: a style movement that’s equal parts cozy, nostalgic, and unexpectedly cool.

Rooted in vintage menswear but revived with a modern twist, grandpacore leans into throwback comfortwear with conviction. Think oversized knits, relaxed trousers, retro spectacles, loafers, and yes, even the occasional bucket hat—all styled with a certain offbeat confidence. Thanks to Gen Z tastemakers and fashion influencers, what was once considered “retirement home chic” is now runway-ready. And yet, its staying power comes from just how effortlessly wearable it is.

Here’s why grandpa’s eclectic vibe is still going strong—and how to pull it off without looking like you’ve just woken up from a nap in a recliner…

Why Grandpacore Refuses to Retire

Unlike fast fashion fads that disappear after a single TikTok trend cycle, grandpacore has proven its staying power by embracing something far more enduring: comfort with character. In a style landscape that often leans toward tight silhouettes and sharp tailoring, grandpacore offers something refreshingly different: room to breathe, both physically and stylistically.

But make no mistake, this is more than just a cozy fit. The aesthetic taps into a deeper cultural shift that celebrates slowness, simplicity, and a return to analog charm. It’s quiet, yet deliberate. Laid-back, yet curated. As Vogue Singapore aptly put it, “It’s fashion’s way of saying you’re confident enough to dress like you don’t care, while still clearly caring.”

The formula? Oversized cardigans, high-waisted slacks, intentionally mismatched prints, and the kind of chunky sneakers your uncle wore to mow the lawn. But when styled with purpose, these pieces transform into a statement. Yes, one that blends artistic self-expression with a wink of nonchalant rebellion.

Here’s How to Pull Off Grandpacore Without Overdoing It

Let’s be real, there’s a razor-thin line between looking stylishly old-school and just looking… well, old-school. Grandpacore hits best when you strike the right balance between retro charm and modern relevance.

Start with the staples: reach for a cozy knit sweater or a boldly printed cardigan in warm, earthy tones. Pair it with relaxed-fit trousers, pleats encouraged if you’re leaning into the aesthetic, or go with vintage-wash denim for a more casual spin. Footwear? Keep it classic with loafers or retro sneakers (New Balance 574s are basically the grandpacore calling card).

Layering is where the magic happens. Throw on a boxy blazer or a structured trench coat to channel that “accidentally iconic in a 1980s family portrait” energy. Top it off with a ribbed beanie or a dad cap for a laid-back edge. And don’t sleep on the accessories. Gold-rimmed glasses, playful socks, or even a statement brooch can elevate the whole vibe from costume to cool.

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Thrift It Like You Mean It

A big part of grandpacore’s charm lies in its deep roots in the thrifting culture. You’re not just buying into a look, you’re uncovering stories. Vintage stores, flea markets, and resale platforms like Depop or Poshmark are treasure troves for the true grandpacore enthusiast. Think cardigans with elbow patches, corduroy blazers straight out of the ’70s, and retro wool trousers that whisper nostalgia. Jackpot.

Even if you’re shopping new, plenty of brands are embracing the aesthetic. Labels like Percival, Rowing Blazers, and even Uniqlo are offering modern spins on timeless staples that feel authentically lived-in. And there’s a sustainability angle too. Grandpacore quietly rejects overconsumption, favoring thoughtful styling and slow fashion. It’s about curating a wardrobe with intention, and finding beauty in the worn, the weathered, and the well-loved.

Influencers and Celebs Are Leaning All the Way In

From Tyler, the Creator’s loafers-and-sweater ensembles to Korean actor Gong Yoo’s effortlessly layered fits, celebrities are giving grandpacore global credibility. Even fashion-forward influencers like Wisdom Kaye have embraced the aesthetic, blending nostalgic charm with modern streetwear sensibilities.

In Southeast Asia, as Mega Asia reports, content creators are confidently styling patchwork jackets, oversized knits, and round-framed glasses. Not ironically, but with genuine flair. They’re not poking fun at the look; they’re fully owning it.

The best part? Grandpacore isn’t limited by body type, skin tone, or budget. It’s one of the most inclusive trends in recent fashion history—low-pressure, high-style, and here to stay.

Final Take: Why Grandpacore Works in 2025

Grandpacore proves that fashion doesn’t have to be fast to feel fresh. In a year where speed and tech dominate nearly everything, this trend offers a quiet counterpoint: comfort, care, and a dose of nostalgia. It’s soft, but never dull. Stylish, without shouting. And most of all, it embraces authenticity—even if that means leaning into your inner grandfather.

So, the next time you pass a rack of argyle sweaters or uncover your dad’s old loafers, don’t just smile and move on. Try them on. Because grandpacore isn’t about dressing like you’re 80, it’s about dressing like you’ve finally figured out who you are.

Featured image: @newkissontheblog/Instagram

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