There's been a funny debate happening recently on TikTok (of course) about the fashion trend of "Eclectic Grandpa."
What does this mean? Well, think colorful knitwear, hella tweed, loafers, tube socks, cozy cardigans, sensible sneakers, dad hats (a.k.a baseball hats), watches, and blazers. Think of your grandpa. Or any grandpa.
What's the debate? Well, there are many angles. Some are calling it a "micro trend." Something linked to brands trying to sell us on something and something that feels part of fast fashion. Because the thing about trends is they come and go but your style lasts forever. If you're not feeling something, don't hop on that train. Let it pass on by. It's OK.
Another aspect of the debate is that you can't dress like an eclectic grandpa if you're not a real grandpa. That an eclectic grandpa has lived a whole life and earned that title. It's not something you can just "put on." Like a grandpa bought all that tweed brand new and it got worn in properly. It's a lifestyle, not a trend.
Here's the thing; I get the overall message but part of me can't help but think it's not that serious. Fashion is supposed to be fun. I understand how passionate people can be about it but there's nothing wrong with finding inspiration in something surprising. I'm a strong believer that everyone should try on as many things as they want while on their journey to finding their personal style.
Now! All of that is to say, I got dressed this morning and someone told me they liked my outfit and they called it Eclectic Grandpa. WHICH IS HOW I LEARNED IT! The lovely person told me about the trend and then I fell down a DEEP DIVE of TikTok about this heated debate. I won't lie, I felt cool that I was doing something without even knowing it was a thing.
But honestly, I just wanted to be cozy today! Honestly, I was going for more of an "English Major Teaching Assistant who overslept but was having a great hair day." But someday I hope to grow up to be a grandpa! xo
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