My Dad, An Unlikely 90s Style Icon

Let's take a moment and head into the past. Imagine it's the late 90s and you're reading Billy Graham, Braveheart is your favorite movie, and you have five kids under the age of 7. Okay, good. Now, if you were a young whippersnapper in small-town Wisconsin who likes to run, fish, and read the bible in your free time--what would you wear? Athleisure! Camo! Puke-stained shirts from your baby's throw-up?! Khakis, polo, and a tie! I know, I figured all of those things too. Imagine my great shock as I modestly entered into the fashion world (mostly via magazines, Instagram, and by influence of my older sisters) and discovered that many fashion icons from the 90s dressed eerily similar to my dad. In fact, I'd argue that 20-something year-old,"Bible Thumping Bill" as they called him, was a trendsetter. My OWN father was basically a 90s fashion icon, and the best part is that he didn't even have to try.

1. Urban Cowboy Holding a Baby Looking like Tommy Hilfiger on a Ranch (click right arrow for reference)

I think one of the most special things about my dad is that although he might be a bit image-conscious, at the end of the day he just wants to feel good about himself and for those around him to feel comfortable. I can't imagine working a full-time job, looking after my kids, and somehow managing to make sure I look like a sharp cowboy ready to take on a fancy banquet for Premiere Horse Trotters Club with my fuzzy baby in tow. Like I said, he's got quite the knack for making sure the people with him are comfortable. Even if that means they are dressed in an abominable snow-person outfit.

Note: white collared shirt neatly tucked into tasteful cream colored sweater, black cowboy hat (very slick), and matched with a neutral white fuzzy baby suit.

2. Rocking Patterned Bathrobes in Public Before it was Cool

As a family, we often will reminisce on Dad's extroverted, Holy Spirit Inspired 20s. It reminds me of Kat, the third oldest daughter. It makes me laugh because they probably bump heads the most, but dad surely had his eccentric side like Kat. No wonder people weren't afraid to call him "Bible Thumping Bill", in fact, I'm sure he took it as a compliment then.

Note: pink headband, multi-colored bathrobe paired with light-wash jeans with natural dirt marks, and some boots/high-tops? A mix of Yeezy, Nike Jordans, and a smile instead of a cigarette--smart choice, pop!

3. Writing in His Prayer Journal While Still Looking Fly in Sneaks and Casual Wear

It's encouraging to find so many pictures of dad back in the day reading to us, playing outside, or just hanging out. He was very present and active in our lives, but he also liked his alone time. I like this picture especially because he's writing down notes, reading his bible, and taking time for himself! I think it's great to see male figures in our life be so open with their emotional vulnerability and faith life. Our whole family appreciates that so much about you, dad!

Note: The Converse high-tops, cropped pants, graphic white tee, simple and yet super cool.

4. Celebrating Life as a Fashionable Dad WAY Before George Clooney Made it Cool

I thought this was hilarious when I paired this photo of dad in a bunch of fun patterns to the picture of George Clooney in his multi-patterned ensemble. Mostly because dad was a cool, fashionable dad way before George Clooney made that a thing! Ironic that he now has two twins, unfortunately, I could not find a picture of him holding them both. But I admire both of their styles back in the 90s.

Note: Big smile, happy babies, and of course mixed patterns (polka dots and stripes).

5. Talking Business and Making Jokes all While Wearing a Sweater Vest, Jerry Seinfeld, is that You?

Not that they look anything alike, but I really like this sweater vest here and I can't tell you how much our family used to love watching Seinfeld. So the picture of dad and Jerry Seinfeld together makes me think--maybe dad and him would've been friends in another life. And for whatever reason, Jerry Seinfeld had great airport style back in the 90s and I think my dad could've given him a run for his money.

Note: The vest in color is even better, it's light blue, dark blue, red and hints of purple. A bold choice dad! Also, you've got some frosting on your nose...

5. Pulling of the Classic Black Aviators and Choosing a Smoke-Free Family Life!

Dad, I still can't believe you managed to keep up with our family and still look fly while doing it! But, I guess we all have those days when we can't find any new clothes and we decide to wear the same outfit two days in a row. Hahahah.

Note: Bible in hand in last photo, bangs on bangs, and wait. I think I just realized this was taken on the same day! So dad, I guess you never wear the same outfit twice!

6. Wearing a Sports Hat Like it Was Made for You

Well, I'll be the first one to admit I was wrong for judging your fashion sense these past 15 or so years. I guess it took me a while to see that our family gets our taste not only from mom--but largely from you! From the sneakers, to the shades, to the sweaters, jeans, etc...But I do have to say growing up, we all realized and appreciated your influence in our love for sports and all things active. So I'll give you that one too!

Note: windbreaker track pants, crewneck sweaters, and horseshoes????

7. Rocking Crewneck Sweaters, Holding Babies, and Loving Jesus

Well, friends. We've reached the end of this journey, and I hope by the end of it you've realized that we should give our parents more credit in terms of their fashion sense. Before you know it, we will be the ones who can't keep up with the changing trends made up by the younger generations! Also, I publicly can say that dad, William Bluett, you are a true 90s style icon. From the turtlenecks, to the high-tops, to the rip jeans, collared shirts, neutrals, graphic tees, and even the countless bibles--you are a fashion inspiration!

Note: their excitement over mini coolers!!!!!!! Too sweet!