THE JOURNAL
How many times did you think long and hard about what to get your dad on Father’s Day, only for him to turn around and say that he doesn’t want anything? Indecision and leaving things to the last minute inevitably ends up with gift-giving clichés, such as ties, mugs and the like. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Wouldn’t it be nice, for once, to show your old man some love with something he’ll genuinely be excited to open come 15 June? To make things easier, we’ve gathered some advice from the real – and very stylish – dads of the MR PORTER office and asked them to pick the gifts they’d be thrilled to receive this year.
01. The cardigan
Jeremy Langmead, Brand Director
The cardigan used to be a traditional “dad” item of clothing. But luckily, it’s escaped those confines. It’s no longer seen as stuffy and has become a wardrobe staple that will happily see you through on and off-duty days. If my children were feeling absurdly generous (wishful thinking), then I would love to receive this lightweight cashmere cardigan by The Row.
02. The socks
Jim Merrett, Chief Sub-Editor
Closing in on a decade as a dad, I’ve come to graciously accept the inevitability of receiving socks. And I am genuinely touched, since I do actively appreciate them. But they could be so much more. Extra, even. As in in a zingy green, with KAPITAL’s trademark cheeky grinning face on the heel. So, this Father’s Day, I’ll hopefully be putting my feet up – and raising a smile.
Try these
03. The watch
Farid Hounkponou, Personal Shopper
To me, the perfect gift for a dad is something meaningful, versatile and a little bit fun. Something that can keep up with real life. And when that dad is me, running from football practice to maths workshops with my son every weekend, the Ballon Bleu de Cartier is the kind of watch that fits right in. I love how the silvered flinqué and lacquered sunray-effect dial adds a touch of elegance to even the most chaotic Saturday. The 40mm case and the interchangeable stainless-steel bracelet make it more than just a timepiece – a reliable companion that helps me keep track of the moments that matter most.
04. The polo shirt
Richard Briggs, Senior Production Manager
I love a good polo shirt – as the dog days of summer approach, it’s the perfect staple to look smart in the heat. I have a few navy polos, but this Mr P. one, part of our Consciously Crafted edit, would make a welcome addition to my collection. I mostly wear jeans and chinos, so its pointelle knit can easily add a point of difference to my everyday outfits.
05. The sneakers
Michael Melis, Sub-Editor
Being a slightly later-in-life dad of two young and boisterous children certainly keeps me on my toes, which requires a multifunctional sneaker that is as comfortable as it is stylish. That’s why I’ve always been an advocate of ON, a brand that takes performance shoes to the next level when it comes to comfort. Most importantly, when the kids ask why my cool new sneakers are called Cloudvista, I get to tell them it’s because they actually make me feel like I’m walking on actual clouds, as I watch their amazed little faces light up with wide-eyed wonder.