Father's Day: Honoring Dads' Enduring Style Influence

This Father's Day, GQ staff members delve into the profound influence their fathers, grandfathers, and other significant male figures have had on their sense of style. Through a collection of personal stories and nostalgic photographs, they reveal how paternal lessons, whether explicit or implicit, have shaped their sartorial choices and broader approaches to life. From meticulous garment care and sharp tailoring to a relaxed appreciation for comfort and signature accessories, these anecdotes highlight the diverse ways fathers transmit their unique fashion philosophies and values to the next generation, often becoming enduring sources of inspiration and personal expression.

Daria Di Lello, GQ's visuals director, fondly recalls her father's lesson on caring for delicate dance attire, instilling in her the value of meticulous attention for cherished items. This early lesson emphasized that special things, whether clothing or life experiences, deserve careful handling and consideration. Similarly, Ian Burke, a senior commerce editor, attributes his polished fashion sense to his father and grandfather's impeccable style at 90s weddings. Their perfectly fitted suits, sharp haircuts, and expertly tied knots left a lasting impression, demonstrating that a well-presented appearance is a family tradition.

Frazier Tharpe II, a senior editor, recounts his father's extensive collection of suits and accessories, which was a testament to his love for sartorial expression and versatility. Despite Frazier II's personal preference for casual wear, he inherited his father's passion for a diverse wardrobe and an adaptable approach to dressing, understanding that true style lies in embracing one's mood and preferences. Nick Collett, creative director of video, shares a charming memory of his grandfather, Dennis, whose signature neckerchief not only elevated his outfits but also became a symbol of their heartwarming farewell ritual. This detail highlights how personal style can be intertwined with deeply personal memories and traditions.

Eileen Cartter, a style editor, finds her father's "no-frills" hiking attire from Acadia National Park to be his most characteristic look. His consistent preference for earthy tones and practical outdoor wear reflects his desire to embody a sense of nature and ease, an approach that has influenced Eileen's own relaxed yet intentional style. Anthony O’Baner Jr., an events manager, reflects on his military father's uniform as a foundational influence. He learned the importance of reliable, consistent pieces, even as his own professional wardrobe diverged. He also discovered a surprising connection through a photograph of his younger father, revealing a shared "diagonal hair part" that he considers his own signature, underscoring the subtle yet powerful ways parental traits manifest.

Sophia Hadeshian, a visuals editor, describes her father's eccentric style, a blend of tailored sophistication and practicality, inherited from a lineage of Armenian artists, tailors, and jewelers. For her, dressing well is more than just appearance; it's a political act of resilience and intentional self-presentation, a lesson passed down through generations. Finally, Zack Hauptman, editorial operations assistant, attributes his grandfather's refined dress sense to his late grandmother's love for fashion. His grandfather's ability to effortlessly assemble a sharp outfit, coupled with his playful intellect, demonstrates that style can be a reflection of both personal character and external influences, maintaining elegance even in casual settings.

Each narrative underscores that a father's style transcends mere clothing choices; it often embodies deeper values, personal history, and lasting lessons. These accounts collectively illustrate the profound and often understated ways fathers influence their children's sense of self and their presentation to the world, creating a rich tapestry of sartorial heritage that continues to inspire and define generations.