Grandpacore Blends Old Fashioned Nostalgia w/ Modern Fits

Grandpacore is a term coined a few seasons ago that describes a style celebrating the cozy, old-school aesthetic of traditional grandparent-inspired clothing. Rooted in comfort and nostalgia, this trend highlights elements like chunky knit cardigans, high-waisted trousers, suspenders and loafers — wardrobe staples reminiscent of a past era. Pre-Boomer style, really. It’s the stuff you find at estate sales and thrift stores en masse. As a movement against fast fashion, it emerged to uplift the ongoing quest for individuality. At its “core,” grandpacore offers a sustainable and heartwarming alternative for fashion enthusiasts.

WHERE DID IT COME FROM?

According to Hannah Jackson, a fashion writer at Vogue, "the eclectic grandpa is all about colorful knitwear, tweed, loafers, patterned boxer shorts, sensible sneakers, baseball caps, and wristwatches; key words: retro, custom, vintage.” It's a vibe made popular by Pinterest mood boards throughout 2024 yet currently still overflowing into now.

Grandpacore finds its roots in vintage fashion, drawing inspiration from mid-20th-century styles. It emphasizes quality over quantity, favoring timeless pieces made from durable fabrics like tweed, wool and corduroy. The movement gained traction during the pandemic, when comfort and simplicity became priorities for many. The influence of slow fashion — which advocates for shopping secondhand and ethical practices — has further cemented Grandpacore as a cultural phenomenon.

Similar to what Jackson says about it, Style Commerce Editor for GQ Avidan Grossman says, “The head-to-toe look can be tricky to pull off, but incorporating elements of the vibe into your everyday rotation is easy enough. (You could do worse than taking a cue from Tyler, the Creator, who swears by a uniform of wacky trapper hats, vibrant sweaters, scrunched tube socks, and brolic hard-bottoms.) Invest in a couple of the pieces here and then wear them like you have absolutely nowhere to be—except a matinee showing, and maybe a reading at the 92nd Street Y.” These two endorsements highlight how Grandpacore aligns with the broader shift toward secondhand and meaningful fashion choices.

CELEBRITIES DO IT TOO

Several celebrities have embraced grandpacore, showcasing its versatility and charm. Harry Styles, known for his bold fashion choices, has been spotted in oversized knit sweaters and pleated trousers that epitomize the trend. Actor Timothée Chalamet has also leaned into the aesthetic, pairing vintage blazers with loafers for a modern take on grandpa-inspired style. It’s not just for dudes either. Gigi Hadad is often seen out in oversized blazers and even across the pond, Girls’ Generation’s Sooyoung sports oversized vintage sweaters.

BUT HOW MUCH?

Vintage clothing, a cornerstone of grandpacore, varies widely in price depending on the item’s age, condition and rarity. A high-quality vintage wool cardigan might cost anywhere from $40 to $150, while bespoke tweed blazers can reach prices upwards of $300. Accessories like leather satchels and retro glasses typically range from $20 to $100. These prices reflect not only the craftsmanship but also the growing demand for unique, sustainable fashion pieces. Outside of ThriftCon, thrift stores and online platforms like Etsy and eBay are excellent resources for finding affordable grandpacore items. You just gotta hit the search function with the proper terms to snag ‘em. Try “tweed,” “loafers” and “70s knit sweaters” to start. Or just straight up type in “Grandpacore” to see what sellers have in stock.

WHY IT’LL LAST FOREVER

The appeal of grandpacore lies in its timelessness and adaptability. Unlike fleeting trends, it focuses on pieces that can be worn year after year, reducing the need for constant wardrobe updates. And if it’s still around today some decades after production, just think of how well made it was to do so. What’s another few decades on top of what it’s already been through?

Additionally, the trend’s emphasis on comfort and individuality makes it universally appealing. Grandpacore encourages wearers to embrace their unique style while paying homage to the past, creating outfits that feel both personal and nostalgic. There are even ways to take what may be “ugly” by modern standards and upcycling it to bring it current. (The designers featured in our Creators Corner are a perfect example of that.)

Grandpacore is more than just a fashion statement; it’s a lifestyle that champions the benefits of buying used, extreme comfort, and individuality. With its roots in vintage fashion and its appeal spanning generations, this trend has solidified its place in the modern wardrobe. Whether you’re scouring thrift stores for the perfect knit sweater or pairing a vintage blazer with contemporary accessories, grandpacore offers endless possibilities for self-expression. 

As fashion continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the old school charm of Grandpacore won’t ever be left in the past again.