The ‘dad-core’ trend is not just restricted to chunky sneakers and fanny packs. Bowling shirts, once a staple of the unfashionable, middle-aged white man, have been adopted and restyled by fashion’s biggest houses. They offer a great way to create a retro, almost cinematic vibe with your outfit, while providing a fresh twist on the summer short-sleeve button down. 

The boxy, wide-cut of bowling shirts make them an easy way to imbibe a bit of the laid-back beach aesthetic wherever you go while still ostensibly wearing a collar. They’re also made with lightweight fabrics and feature adventurous necklines for maximum ventilation. 

Brands have mixed up what has traditionally been a very staid piece with floral prints and other graphic designs to create genuinely original pieces. 

Style a bright bowling shirt with darker pants on a night out, or contrast a more aggressive print with solid-colour shorts for daytime activities. 

For footwear, keep it within the season with espadrilles, loafers, or boat shoes. If your shirt is printed, stick with solid colours on your feet. 

Prada has a great floral shirt available:

There’s this uber-cool Pink Panther-inspired piece from HUF:

If you’re feeling adventurous, Gucci has its traditional insignia all over this elaborate piece:

Images: Mr. Porter