Dad Pants Are the Next Sweatpants (And They're Nothing Like Mom Jeans)

A T-shirt, tank top or blouse in a bright print helps up the cool factor of basic beige trousers, especially if you opt for a chic French tuck. Choose equally stand-out sandals and a colorful tote to round out your look that can seamlessly take you from the farmers’ markets to brunch with the gals.

Balance out the volume of your dad pants with a curve-hugging top or bodysuit. You can absolutely rock a sexier style—including a low-back tank or a V-neck blouse—but for dressier occasions we love the simplicity of a crewneck long-sleeve. Add a chunky chain necklace and some pointy-toe pumps in a bold animal print to complete the look.

If this trend has visions of Annie Hall dancing through your head, you’re not the only one. And while we’d gladly use Diane Keaton as fashion inspiration any day of the week, there are better ways to rock pleated pants in 2021 than with a matching vest and a wide-brim hat (sorry, Diane). Layer an easy blazer over a casual top, a short-sleeve Hawaiian shirt or graphic tee will do, and keep the rest of your accessories on the simpler side—seriously, don’t underestimate the power of plain white sneakers and some classic aviators. And don’t worry, the blazer doesn’t even need to be part of a matching suit, so long as it’s in a complimentary color or the same fabric.

Consider this minimalist ensemble your new summer uniform. Simply coordinate your tank with your pants, then loop a contrasting belt through the waist and slip on sandals and sunnies in a contrasting shade. Keep your handbag on the smaller side and bonus points if you match it to either your clothes or your accessories. We love the look of this black-and-white getup, but you could recreate it in shades of beige and brown or even tan and something more colorful (like bright pink or sage green) and still have a go-to ‘fit to wear until fall rolls around.

For those not yet ready to pull on their cocktail dresses for parties or nights on the town, dad pants can easily look just as festive. The key here is to choose bottoms in a color other than brown, tan or beige, and pair them with an over-the-top blouse, like one covered in sequins or trimmed with fringe or feathers. Add a pair of sleek high heels or pointy-toe flats and then pile on the glitzy jewelry before you head out the door. The result? You instantly look chic, polished and trendy.

This cropped pair works best for more casual ensembles, and is also available in black and a warmer brown hue. (P.S. there’s also a matching blazer, if you’re a suit kinda gal.)

Embrace the slouchy nature of these lightweight trousers and French tuck an oversize tee into the waistband.

Be sure to fold or hang these trousers properly to maintain those crisp lines down the front.

Yes, this Free People pair also comes in black, but we’re really digging the banana-yellow hue for more of a South Beach vibe.

Extreme dad pants call for extreme dad pairings, including a white button-down and chunky New Balance sneaks. Throw on some colorful earrings or a stack of beaded bracelets to avoid looking like a total costume.

If you prefer patterns over monochrome hues, opt for a classic print, like plaid or houndstooth, rather than whimsical florals or polka dots. We suggest you stick with lighter shades, as well, to keep things looking seasonally appropriate for spring and summer.

The matching belt can be easily swapped out for a leather style in a contrasting hue, or you can go totally beltless for a more relaxed vibe.

This no-fuss pair of trousers is made using sustainable methods for those looking to make their wardrobe more eco-friendly.

Gray pinstripe pants are truly seasonless. Just layer them under a chunky cashmere knit in fall and winter, then tuck in a white T-shirt or black tank top when the warmer months roll around.

This cropped style works best on taller frames (but don’t let that stop you from trying them out, petite folks) and when paired with flat sandals or backless loafers rather than heels.