How to Pull off the Chunky Sneakers & Dad Shoes Styles

6 Comments 3 min read

What Are Dad Shoes?

Despite being the polar opposite of sleek sneakers, dad shoes have are here to stay! The trend became en vogue in early 2017 and rose to popularity even more when Balenciaga released their “Triple S” kicks that fall. The new style was the love child of hiking boots and your middle-aged dad’s chunky running shoes. Since then, fashionistas and street style storytellers have been adopting the shoes enthusiastically.

How to Style Chunky Shoes

Utility Jumpsuit

Honestly, what is not to like about light fabric, big pockets, and comfortable clothing? “Utility” was the big buzzword in early 2019 fashion trends, and the style continues to be a hit with designers. Everyone can agree that when fashion meets function, they are ecstatic. Well, in my opinion, dad shoes also fit the bill of functionality– especially for people living in the big city. A utility jumpsuit and a pair of chunky sneakers are a busy gal’s perfect duo.

Lauryncakes wearing a Target utility jumpsuit and Fila 'dad shoes' from DSW

Biker Shorts

Speaking of girls on the go, anyone else wear their workout clothes all day so that they can hit the gym in between meetings? I imagine that’s what started the athleisure movement, eventually leading to everyone and their mom owning a pair of printed biker shorts. I’ll be honest, at first I wasn’t sure if biker shorts would look good on my thick thighs. Turns out that was a silly thought– they look good on just about anyone, especially when paired with chunky shoes!

Bold Colors

The iconic color palette of the ’80s is making a comeback. Bring on the neon! Since big sneakers remind you of your dad, who is a bit retro and had his heyday in 1980, it only feels fair to pay tribute with the bold colors of the era. Many dad shoes are made with daring shades; go on and be bold!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by JENEE’ 🙋🏾‍♀️Content Creator (@highlowluxxe) on

Tall Socks

Do the tall socks remind you of your kid brother  playing ball or of dressing up for church in ruffle socks? The current tall sock fashion statement reminds me a little bit of both! It gives the oversized sneakers a playful, “I look good in everything” vibe.

Girly Dress

Likewise, you can rest assured that every major accessory trend is sure to go well with a dress! My favorite pairing is chunky shoes and ultra girlish dresses to contrast the masculine and feminine in each style. Try out frills, silk, and flow for a real winning match.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Danielle Gervino | NY Blogger (@daniellegervino) on

Cropped Pants

Ultimately, cropped and rolled pants will never die! To keep proportions even when wearing huge shoes, it’s always a good idea to wear slimming pants or show off your ankles a bit! This will take your outfit from messy to yessy in 2.5 seconds. Straight jeans, unrolled, and oversized sneakers is what your dad would do. We are going for chic!

 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Chelsea | Life + Style Blog (@agirlherlife) on

SHOP THE POST

You either love them or you hate them! What are your thoughts on Dad Shoes? Tell me if you’d wear them in the comments below, and don’t forget to give the fabulous bloggers above a follow!

What do you think?

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

6 Comments
  • Tara Fuller
    August 18, 2019

    i am finally coming around to this trend! I think my favorite is with girly dresses, something about the contrast is just so cute! and I LOVE your pose!

  • Stephanie
    August 19, 2019

    This is definitely one trend I can’t get on board with for myself. I see other people totally rock them, but I think I’ll stick with my smaller Ked-like sneakers for now haha. Love all these fun stylings though!

  • WanderlustBeautyDreams
    August 19, 2019

    I feel like I can’t pull of this look but they look so cute on you!

  • Nailil
    August 20, 2019

    Girl, I am loving this outfit! I personally haven’t tried the sneakers but I love how you ladies styled them!

    Xx, Nailil
    thirtyminusone.com

  • Megan Elliott
    August 20, 2019

    You pull them off sooo perfectly! I love them paired with the jumpsuit!

  • Morgan Tyner
    August 22, 2019

    Ahh I am loving all these recommendations! I love my chunky, white sneakers! And I just got a pair of bikers shoes that I wear all the time!! Definitely need to pair it with my sneakers 💕🙌🏽 Great idea! Xx, Morgs*