10 Men Share The Best Style Tips They Got From Their Dads

Your dad shaped you in more ways than one! Say thanks in style this Father's Day with Armitron.

1. The Spacing Test

"My dad always said the end of your necktie should just barely touch the top of your belt buckle. I have no idea if that's sartorially accurate, but I still follow his advice to this day."

—Andrew C.

2. The Double Windsor

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"My dad taught me how to tie a double windsor (no big deal) with the perfect dimple below the knot (which can be tricky). He said the dimple looks distinguished, and it's the proper way to wear the tie. The advice stuck, and now ties without the dimple look very 'junior prom' to my eye. Every wedding season, my tie is on point. Thanks, Dad!"

—James L.

3. The Importance of Basics

"My dad never really bought into fads or trends, which allowed me to figure out how I wanted to dress on my own. All of the clothes he wore had a utilitarian value. I'd like to think I have a little more style than my old man, but he did teach me the importance of wearing what you like, regardless if it was 'cool,' and of buying quality basics that could stand the test of time."

—Chris S.

4. The Proper Technique

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"One of my earliest memories was getting a shaving/grooming kit meant for kids. The razor was of course fake and not sharp, but the kit did come with actual shaving cream, brushes, and some towels. For some reason, I was obsessed with all of this and would stand next to my pops in the morning, grooming myself like he did. I remember quickly 'shaving' all the cream from my face as if it were a race.

"One day, he stopped me and taught me proper shaving technique and how to go slowly so you don't miss a spot or knick yourself. Of course, it wasn't really helpful to me then (or even now — my facial hair is super spotty, and it's pretty embarrassing when grown out), but he imparted the importance of taking time when shaving and getting ready in the morning, and now I even find it meditative."

—Tyler H.

5. The Stainless Shirt

"My dad always told me never to wear white to a barbecue. As most rebellious sons do, I had to learn myself...the hard way. He was absolutely right. You should never wear white to BBQs, potlucks, or basically any event where dark-colored sauce will be present. Even if it is before Labor Day..."

—Clark M.

6. The Importance of Care

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"I don't know if my dad loves shoes, but he definitely loves taking care of the shoes he owns. I have fond memories of him polishing his dress shoes in my parents' bedroom. When I purchased my first pair of nice black Oxford balmorals, he gifted me a shoe kit with polishes, horsehair brushes, and buffing cloths. Today, I greatly enjoy the ritual of polishing my shoes and boots and make a point to do it a few times a year. My shoes should live on as long as these memories thanks to his advice."

—James L.

7. The Vintage Tee

"My dad worked in radio and consequently picked up a a rack's worth of swag over the years — caps, jerseys, that sort of stuff. By the time I entered college, I had inherited the jewel of his collection: a vintage dance marathon tee from 1987. I won many compliments, thanks to him."

—Tyler S.

8. The LBD

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"My dad taught me some basics I've aways remembered. He said you should cuff pleated pants and never cuff flat-front pants. He also told me every guy needs a navy blue sports coat — the LBD for dudes, according to him."

—Dan C.

9. The Basics

"My dad told me 'gray shirts and black pants forever,' and I've stuck by that."

—Ryan G.

10. The Joy of Comfort

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"My dad's always pretty much worn the same boat shoes my whole life. When one pair gets worn, he buys another. If they're on sale, he buys two pairs because he knows he'll use them. I asked him why when I was a teenager, and he said, 'Boat shoes are great because no one thinks it's weird if you're not wearing socks.' Long story short, I'm wearing boat shoes right now."

—Will K.

Your dad did a lot to make you...you! Say thanks in style with Armitron.