Was Comedic Genius Robin Williams the Founding Father of Dad Style? An Investigation

Updated on July 23, 2018 at 5:14 AM

In celebration of the late, great Robin Williams, join me in this investigation. I have found photographic proof that leads me to believe that he is the father of what we now commonly refer to as "dad style." While scrolling through the Internet, I was thrilled to discover photo evidence of a very fashionable Mr. Williams. From chunky sneakers to BAPE button-ups, it's all truly giving me Instagram Hypebeast vibes.

Am I saying Robin Williams would've waited in a Supreme line? Absolutely not, but he might've worn a signature box-logo tee or five-panel cap from time to time. Swipe through these photos and decide for yourself! Regardless, we'll always remember Robin Williams as a man who was way ahead of his time.

Exhibit A: Robin Williams in a BAPE Button-Up and Nike Dunk High SB's

Witness Williams going full dadcore in this classic Bathing Ape camo button-up, cream parachute shorts, and Nike Dunk High SB's, possibly in a very rare Google colorway. All he's missing are some tiny colored sunglasses!

Exhibit B: Robin Williams in Full Flame Tones

Serving us extreme Guy Fieri/Smash Mouth-singer-meets-your-local-skater-boy vibes. This unidentifiable 1999 flame button-up offsets his otherwise-tame khaki cargo pants. Clearly an excellent outfit choice by Williams.

Exhibit C: Robin Williams Possibly in a Fanny Pack

I can neither confirm nor deny that that's a crossbody fanny pack.

Exhibit D: Robin Williams in a Chrome Industries Messenger Bag

Here's Robin Williams leaving Ed Sullivan Theater after taping The Late Show with David Letterman, wearing a busy graphic-print windbreaker and a Chrome Industries messenger bag over his suit! Are you with me yet?

Exhibit E: The Full Head-to-Toe Look

Yes, those may be limited-edition Adidas Superstar 80s REPS x SNS x Patta x ARs or some other similar Superstar style.

Exhibit F: Robin Williams in an Oversize Parka and a Kangol-Style Hat

Sure, this look is practical and cozy, but a Kangol-esque hat and oversize parka is extremely '90s dad.

Exhibit G: Robin Williams with Bleached-Blond Hair

He might have only had bleach-blond hair for his role in 1-Hour Photo, but these baggy cargo pants are so skater that I can't even comprehend.

Exhibit H: Robin William in Camo Print with a Bike

Once again, Williams is breaking out the camo print for practical reasons but sporting it well, and this time with a very Brooklyn fashion accessory.

Exhibit I: Robin Williams in a Matching Tennis Outfit

I truly cannot look away from this image, he's head-to-toe drippin' dad swag. The oversize graphic tee with matching cargo shorts and the chunky muted tennis shoes with the high-rise socks are so sick. I wish I could snag a pair of those sneakers right now.

Exhibit J: Robin Williams in a Bucket Hat!

Just needed to make sure you saw him in this Enyce by Sean Diddy Combs bucket hat.

Exhibit K: Another BAPE T-Shirt Plus a Solid Stance!

"You know I had to do it to 'em." - Robin Williams, 2006*

*Not really, unfortunately.