Dads, it’s all about you! (Well, kind of)

Do you have a busy life, like most men? Work, sports, home and lawn projects, striving to keep your significant other happy, and, very importantly, being a helpful and loving father are all part of your daily life. You’re probably busy from the time you get up until you drag yourself to bed. However, you can’t use this as an excuse for dressing shabbily.

We are constantly judged based on our outward appearance. Regardless of your location or vocation, looking less than modern and organized is unacceptable. You never know who you may run into while you’re out and about—clients, friends, potential clients, and, if you’re not married, potential dates. As if all of these reasons aren’t enough, here’s another equally compelling one: your kids.

If you have kids over 10, you know they embarrass very easily. When kids (or anyone) are embarrassed by someone’s appearance, it can cause them to shy away from being seen with them in public. In this case, it may mean that your kids don’t want to go to sports events, movies, or other activities with you. This can be avoided by making sure your clothes are modern and stylish.

Let’s do a review of your current wardrobe and see where you stand. First off, if you own anything from before 2000, it’s time to let it go. I know it’s hard, but eliminate your outdated clothing and shoes. They’re probably not even in good enough shape to donate, so get out the garbage bags and fill them up.

Once you’ve weeded out the old stuff, look for anything with stains, holes,  missing buttons, broken zippers, or other defects. I know you intend to repair them, but if you haven’t done it yet, time is up! While you’re at it, get rid of anything that doesn’t fit, is showing signs of wear, needs ironing, and any clothing that doesn’t boost your confidence.

Take a deep, cleansing breath and enjoy the feeling of accomplishment. Now your wardrobe is ready to receive a new, modern, juvenile-embarrassment-free makeover. We’ll focus on casual, everyday looks appropriate for hanging out with the kids on the weekend, running errands, and going to all of their athletic events. This style of casual may be on a higher level than you’re used to, but that’s okay. It’s time to look great all of the time. Remember, you never know who you may run into.

A good casual wardrobe consists of:
• Darker wash jeans, with no rips or holes – let the kids enjoy wearing those.
• Khakis that have been ironed. Yes, ironed.
• A pair or two of colored chinos.
• Good quality, non-offensive t-shirts. These should be shirts you go out and buy, not ones you get for free from activities.
• A blazer that can be worn with both jeans and khakis.
• A denim jacket that is not worn with jeans. Pair it with khakis or cotton shorts.
• Several good quality polo shirts in bright colors.
• Several button-down shirts (not suit dress shirts) in bright colors. Maybe even some prints.
• Several pairs of non-athletic shoes such as slip-ons, boat shoes or sneakers.

There you have it: a modern, stylish wardrobe you’ll look great in and your kids will be proud of.

Note: To make it as easy as possible, if you know your size, you can buy these looks online. Just click on the image, and save time for the kids. Your kids will love the new you.