As we head into Autumn / Winter 2024, a clear trend has already emerged – GRANDPACORE. Hold on to your flat cap!
Serving as both a rebellion against the modern streetwear trend and Y2k, Grandpacore is classic without being old-fashioned, while also luxurious but not necessarily understated.
The defining features of the Grandpacore “look” are knit pieces like cardigans and sweaters, typically layered over shirts and finished with an overcoat and relaxed pants. Colours are mainly neutrals like camel, brown, navy, and khaki. Footwear is mostly classic – loafers are popular, although dad sneakers are a good choice too.
Of course, traditional doesn’t mean boring – and here is how to put together a Grandpacore look.
Step 1: You’ll Definitely Need a Cardigan
The cardigan is the quintessential Grandpacore item, and should definitely be your starting point if you’re putting together a Grandpacore look.
Step 2: For Non-cardigan Days, Go for a Sweater Instead
Maybe your favourite cardi is in the wash, maybe you just don’t know what to pair it with – no worries, go for a sweater instead. Think ARGILE patterns or cable knit cream polo-necks – M&S have it all covered in that dept.
Step 3: Get a Classic Shirt for Layering
Shirts are essential for the Grandpacore look, whether they are untucked and unkempt or neat and preppy, the shirt collar must be visible from beneath the sweater, and is a key detail for the look.
Step 4: Consider a Sweater Vest or knitted Tank Top
Whatever the weather, a sweater vest is a great alternative to a sweater, paired with wide leg trousers or with an undershirt and shorts – the look is more contemporary with a long-sleeve shirt worn under the sweater vest, untucked and oversized.
Step 5: The Polo Shirt (or rugby style top)
Rather than sweaters, shirts, or cardigans, designers this season have also presented plenty of knitted polos and collared tops. Either with buttons or without they can be worn solo or layered over other knitwear or shirts. I personally HATE these and would run a mile if I saw my other half wearing one.
Step 6: Find the Right Trews
The silhouette for trousers is mainly relaxed but definitely not sloppy – think smart tweed or khaki chinos. Also consider jeans but they must be loose fitting – NOT TIGHT.
Step 7: Choose a Classic Coat
The coat you choose should be something classic like this duffle coat, a grey or beige tweed overcoat, a houndstooth check coat or a Burberry style Mac.
Step 8: Finally, Pick the Right Shoes to Tie It All Together
Shoes are one of the most important details, and the choices for Grandpacore include Dad sneakers by New Balance, brown leather boat shoes (yuck) or a swish loafers such as Gucci, and desert boots at Tod’s.
