THE JOURNAL

Illustrations by Carly Cantlon
Dads have never been more involved in their child’s life than they are right now. And yet, they’re no easier to buy a gift for. They “don’t want anything”, or so they claim. This Father’s Day, thank your old man with something special that really shows you appreciate all the time and energy he has invested in you. He deserves it, after all. And if you are that old man, send them your Wish List as a not-so-subtle hint.
Or better still, take your pick from the items below. We asked the dads among the MR PORTER team what they’d like to unwrap come the big day and this is what they came back with. Hopefully there’s something here that will also blow your pop’s socks off. (Possibly even socks.)
The Assouline Formula 1 coffee table book


Suggested by Mark Blundell, Director of Communications & Events
“‘What do you want to be when you grow up, son?’ ‘A racing driver, Daddy!’ While this book may be extravagant for a Father’s Day present, it’s a true generational memory maker. I can sit down with my son, talking through all the different cars and tracks, the unique driver’s helmet designs and especially the characters that have graced the sport over the years. But I know what his first question will be. ‘Where’s Grandad?’ (He raced in the 1990s.)”
The Paul Smith cotton socks (three pack)


Suggested by Jeremy Langmead, Brand Director
“Last year, when asked to pick something for Father’s Day from MR PORTER, I optimistically suggested knitwear from The Row. Did either of my sons take the hint? No. I got a text. Which was lovely. I’d have preferred a present, though. So, this year I’m lowering the bar – but it’s still something I would be thrilled to receive. You can never have too many socks and Paul Smith’s jaunty striped ones always put you in a good mood for off-duty slouching. Let’s see if this strategy works better than my previous one.”
The Cartier Ballon Bleu de Cartier automatic stainless steel and gold watch


Suggested by Farid Hounkponou, Personal Shopper
“Last year, for Father’s Day, I suggested the Ballon Bleu de Cartier in stainless steel because it felt timeless, practical and elegant enough to follow me through every stage of fatherhood. Sadly, I didn’t receive it – though I was fortunate enough to invest in a Santos-Dumont for myself. This year, I’m still drawn to the Ballon Bleu in stainless steel and gold for many of the same reasons, but with a little more warmth and refinement. I’ve found myself gravitating towards 36mm watches, especially for more formal or professional settings. The size feels incredibly refined on the wrist, sitting flat and flush in a way that almost makes you forget you’re wearing a watch at all. Combined with the warmth of steel and gold, it’s a piece that brings effortless elegance to both everyday moments and special occasions. Children, please take note this time.”
The Row straight-leg jeans


Suggested by Lewis Malpas, Creative Director
“‘Start ’em young’, I say. I’m expecting a lot of my daughter (aged three) to pick up on my appreciation for understated, yet well-made, clothes and surprise me with these Vanya jeans from The Row. They have the potential to take me from the office to soft play and everywhere in between without compromising on style.”
The Ralph Lauren Home leather chess set


Suggested by Alex Walker-Sage, Senior Brand Marketing Manager
“This Father’s Day, I’m setting my sights high. Having introduced my nine- and seven-year-olds to chess, I’ve seen their passion for the game ebb and flow in perfect correlation with their mood, the weather and, crucially, the proximity of snacks. Now feels like the time to cash in on their interest while there’s still a flicker of it there – and, in the process, help them empty out their piggybanks. Given the sacrifices I’ve made to aid their pursuit of chess grandmastery, I feel it’s only right that they return the love through this exquisite handmade Fowler set from Ralph Lauren Home. It’s really a gift to the whole family.”
The Brunello Cucinelli leather-trimmed suede wash bag


Suggested by Nick Cook, Senior Creative Designer
“With this Father’s Day being my first as a dad, it doesn’t require much more to be a special one. However, it serves as a great excuse to treat myself to this Brunello Cucinelli suede wash bag – just in time for our first summer holiday together. Although, after dropping a few hints, I am still holding out hope for a gift from my better half on behalf of my eight-month-old son…”
The Aimé Leon Dore denim jacket


Suggested by Jim Merrett, Commissioning Editor
“My dad had a classic denim trucker jacket that, for me in my formative years, defined his style. I’d always coveted it and assumed, one distant day, it would be passed down and I’d take up the mantle. What I hadn’t anticipated, however, is that my sister would swoop in and claim it first. Which leaves me in need of making my own sartorial mark. And for my own kids to argue over this Aimé Leon Dore jacket in many years to come.”