We all have a bit of an ‘eclectic grandpa' in us, but January might just be the perfect time for us all to lean into it.
Characterised by the chunky knits, corduroy trousers, and argyle vests worn by beloved septuagenarians (think, Sir Anthony Hopkins in Loewe or what the Gallagher Brothers will wear when they're 70), the ‘eclectic grandpa’ trend has been adopted by a younger generation drawn to the aesthetic's promotion of comfort, ease, and stylised idiosyncrasy. It also happens to be the perfect look for when one is suffering from post-Christmas blues and simply can't be bothered to dress up for dreary January weather.
But for 2026, the fusty grandpa look is getting a literary facelift. According to Pinterest's 2026 Predicts Report, which projects upcoming trends slated to take over our feeds, Millennials and Gen Z are seeking comfort in turbulent times by dressing like the Boomers once did, in the hopes of wrapping themselves in the optimism of their era. Searches for the “Poet Aesthetic” were up 175%, involving oversized turtlenecks and vintage blazers, while searches for “tie accessories” were up 85%. Brooches for men's suits were up 90%, with everyone looking for ways to personalise their ‘fits. More professorial than senior-citizen, ’grandpacore' never looked so smart.
It's an outfit that even our favourite It-girls like Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber turn to for a comfy-chic look. As you may know, Gigi Hadid is the beauty and brains behind cosy knitwear label Guest in Residence, which offers plenty of brushed-cashmere cardigans in eccentric colour ways, and is often seen layering her knits under structured coats, with a tie thrown on for good measure. Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner are partial to chunky knits and slick loafers when they need to run errands in style.
According to Pinterest Predicts, this is how we'll be dressing next year.
You see, despite the shaggy cardigans and sensible footwear, 2026's eclectic grandpa is never frumpy. Just take a look at Miu Miu's spring/summer 2026 runway for inspiration. Despite the baggy trousers and swaddling bomber jacket, a crisp, blue shirt and edgy belt keep the outfit looking modern, while a cleverly clashing checkered set at Tommy Hilfiger's show is tied together neatly with a boxy butter yellow jacket.
There's no doubt that there are plenty of Boomer treasures to be found for those adept at vintage and thrift shopping, and your very own grandfather's closet might be the best place to start, but for the rest of us looking to put together a grandpa-coded uniform from scratch, here are the best pieces to shop, from high-waisted paper bag jeans to cable-knit jumpers.
