Let’s hear it for fathers

Is it just us, or do the dads out there seem to be getting cooler every year? Gone are the days when a barbecue tool set, a tech gadget or a book would suffice for a Father’s Day gift; these days, that just won’t cut it — at least not if your pop is style-savvy. From the standout shirt he’ll wear everywhere to the quirky accessory that can replace his worn-out favourite, Rebecca Tay showcases five items good for gifting this Father’s Day.

BAG A BASKET

A kiondo is a traditional basket made from the sisal plant with leather trimmings, and these fair trade ones are handwoven in Kenya, using ethically sourced cow hide and azo-free dyes. We love their vibrant hues and versatility: your dad can use them for plants, storing magazines or pillows, or even as a beautiful recycling bin in his home office. Kasandy, kasandy.com | $98 each

LOUD & PROUD

For the dad who loves his fashion comes this short-sleeve cotton ‘Rangi’ button-down by President’s, an Italian brand founded in 1957 known these days for its vibrant colours and graphics. If your father is the kind of guy who’d love this shirt, we guarantee he’ll be wearing it with chinos and shorts all season. Don’t blame us if his less fashion-forward friends don’t get it.

Roden Gray, rodengray.com | $268

CLASSIC COLLAB

Some partnerships just seem like a no-brainer, and the new Vans x National Geographic collab is one of them. Celebrating more than 130 years of exploring our planet, this baseball cap from the collection features both logos — Nat Geo’s on the front; Vans’ on the back — and an adjustable strap, and for us, it’s an example of classic, slightly ironic and throwback done just right. Did we mention the style is even called the ‘Dad’ hat? Gravity Pope, gravitypope.com, vans.ca | $40

A LONG TIME COMING

If your wallet is feeling a bit heavier — perhaps since your spring break trip was cancelled and you were stuck inside for all those weeks — why not splurge a little more on your dad this year? The Hydroconquest watch by Longines has just been released in green, which feels contemporary while staying true to its sporty, diving roots. The 41mm version comes with an interchangeable green rubber strap and stainless steel bracelet — it’s almost like giving two watches in one.

Longines, longines.com | $1,950

DINO DAYS

If your dad’s beautiful leather wallet is now just a shadow of its former self, this fun cardholder from PS by Paul Smith might be just the thing to convince him it’s time to retire it. With a cool, roaring dinosaur on one side and a graphic orange sun on the other — plus, of course, three slots for moolah — it’s a playful addition to his everyday accessories wardrobe — one that’ll remind him of you every day. SSENSE, ssense.com | $125