A SHARP Guide For Fathers, By Fathers

To be a dad is to be a caregiver, a teacher, a role model, a short-order cook, a counsellor, a comedian, a coach, and a financial advisor, among many other responsibilities. Within this, however, is infinite variation: no two dads are alike, and every dad brings his own experience, wisdom, and flaws to the job.

Father’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the dads we know and all they’ve done for us over the years, but also to take stock of the ever-evolving concept of fatherhood itself, and the myriad ways in which dads of all kinds make the world a better place. In honour of this occasion, SHARP’s Father’s Day guide is packed with everything you need to toast the dads in your life, plus essential wisdom from some of the coolest dads we know. 

Cory Vitiello, Chef 

Cory Vitiello

A star of the Canadian culinary scene for more than 15 years, Vitiello splits his time between developing restaurant concepts for LFG Growth Partners and running Flock, his growing chain of rotisserie restaurants. Vitiello’s latest project, however, is closer to his heart: a book about cooking with his son. In his new book, Dad in the Kitchen (Penguin Random House, $37.50), Vitiello shares his favourite dishes to make for (and with) kids. 

What’s the best advice you’ve received about fatherhood? 

The best advice that I had came from Martina, my partner, who from day one encouraged me to be a part of bedtimes, feeding times, and nap times. I didn’t have a lot of friends who had similar experiences, but if she hadn’t insisted that I share those responsibilities, I would have missed an opportunity to create a real emotional connection and bond with Barlow from day one. 

How are you a different parent than your dad was? 

He’s much more outdoorsy than me, and I remember from an early age learning how to canoe and fish and all of these kinds of quintessential father-child moments. My version of that is inside the kitchen. We cook together, we talk together, and that’s our bonding. It’s not going out into nature and pitching a tent, it’s going to the grocery store or the market and picking our dinner tonight. 

Dad In The Kitchen Book Cover

What’s your go-to recipe to make with your son? 

If it’s been a challenging day and we need something quick on the table I like to make a kind of carbonara with broccoli and this creamy cheese-egg sauce. Barlow pulls up his little stool and sometimes he helps me grate the cheese and mix the eggs, or he’ll just draw or mould play dough beside me while I’m cooking. 

Bombay Sapphire 

Bombay Sapphire Gin With Glass
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The only thing better than a perfectly mixed gin martini is a perfectly mixed gin martini that makes the planet a little better. That’s why Bombay Sapphire has been working to become the world’s most sustainable global gin, from the recycled bricks and roof tiles at its award-winning distillery to the 100 per cent sustainably sourced botanicals certified by ECOCERT in every drop. With its signature fresh and vibrant taste based on the original 1761 recipe and its iconic blue bottle (made from one-third recycled glass, naturally), this premium gin is ready to take Dad’s summer cocktails to the next level. ($31)

Glenmorangie Original 10-Year-Old Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky 

Glenmorangie Bottle Single Malt
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There are a lot of nice highland single-malts out there, but few of them can be considered true classics of the genre. Glenmorangie’s signature whisky, however, has been in production for over 175 years and has been a constant presence in the world’s most discerning bars for almost as long. Matured for a decade in first- and second-fill American ex-bourbon casks, its unique peach-and-vanilla character makes it a quintessential sipping whisky, whether neat with a few drops of water or on the rocks. ($77)

Angel’s Envy Bourbon

Angel's Envy bottle for Father's Day gift guide
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Founded in 2010 and based in the heart of Louisville, this relatively recent addition to the bourbon scene is aged for four to six years in new, charred white oak barrels before being blended to achieve its signature flavour profile. Crucially, during the final stages of production, Angel’s Envy is one of the few bourbons to be finished for up to six additional months in Portuguese port barrels before being blended again. The result, with notes of maple syrup and chocolate, is sure to earn a place on any bourbon fan’s top shelf. ($80)

Ian Rosen, President and COO 

Ian Rosen Portrait

As the third generation of his family to lead Canadian menswear retailer Harry Rosen, Ian Rosen has a unique perspective on the importance of strong relationships between fathers and sons. Menswear may be in his blood, but as a father to three young daughters, he’s enjoying becoming as skilled at braiding hair as he is at selling suits and ties. 

What’s the biggest challenge of being a dad for you? 

Being able to balance what’s going on professionally with being the dad that I want to be at home. I learned that lesson from my father and grandfather who travelled a lot and had very busy professional lives. It’s very challenging, but it’s really important for me. 

What’s been the most rewarding thing for you so far? 

My oldest daughter is getting super into music so I’m trying to get her hooked on bands that I like. She recently got to know a few Beatles songs and we made some headway with Yellow Submarine. I’m just fascinated that there are these things that they don’t know about yet and I get the opportunity to introduce them to. It’s really cool. 

How are you a different parent than your dad was? 

We’re in the same profession and business never stops, and even more so in today’s world where we have e-commerce running 24/7 365. There’s always an excuse to turn back to business so having the discipline not to do that is probably the most important trait that I was taught as a kid. But my dad also had three boys and I have three girls, so it’s definitely different… I can do a very good French braid. 

Hermès H Embroidered Buttoned Polo Shirt 

Hermès shirt
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Every dad has two kinds of shirts in his wardrobe — the ones he wears when he needs to look his best, and the ones he really loves. This low-key polo from the legendary French Maison is that rarest of rare things: a shirt that’s as comfortable as it is stylish. Made in Italy from preternaturally soft pre-washed cotton, this versatile top is ready to add a colourful punch to his workday wardrobe and a suave complement to his off-duty looks. If only finding the perfect pair of pants was this easy. ($760)

Fendi Antique Small Nappa Leather Tote

Fendi Small Grey Antique Nappa Leather Bag on white background Father's Day
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This bag – slate grey, straight from the runway – has made a seamless transition into the menswear collection at Prada. Fashionable as it is, the bag doesn’t sacrifice function – its sheer durability is enough to impress the most practically minded fathers. Antique leather material provides a sturdy build, fit to carry essentials like laptops and books in style. ($3,950)

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller

Rolex Sky-Dweller
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It doesn’t get as much hype as some of the other members of the Rolex family, but from its Oystersteel and white gold case to its mint green dial to its Jubilee bracelet and fluted bezel, the 2023 Sky-Dweller is every bit as entitled to a place on the most discerning of wrists. In addition to its attention-grabbing looks, the Sky-Dweller is fitted with one of Rolex’s most complicated movements including an annual calendar and second time zone, making it a useful tool for frequent flyers. ($18,700)

Bulgari Aluminum Capri Solotiempo 

Bulvgari watch
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For dads who are partial to unbuttoned shirts, deep tans, and spending as much time in the sun as possible, this limited-edition Bulgari captures the romance of the Mediterranean with a gradient dial the colour of Capri’s clear blue water. Its 40mm case is made from aluminum, with a DLC-coated titanium case back, a rubber bezel, and 100m of water resistance, so he won’t have to take it off to have a dip in the Blue Grotto, or wherever his summer vacation takes him. ($4,320)

Fendi Peekaboo ISeeU XCross Bag 

FENDI Peekaboo ISeeU XCrosson white background mens luxury bag
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It’s a problem nearly as old as fatherhood itself: a dad must carry many things, and he must have something in which to contain them all. Different dads have different answers to this age-old question, from messenger bags to backpacks to canvas totes, but none of these has quite the same level of fashionable street cred as the Fendi Peekaboo IseeU XCross. This Italian-made carry-all, an evolution of one of the most coveted designs in their women’s line, has recently migrated to the menswear collection, bringing with it a whole new way for fashion-forward dads to tote their stuff in style. ($4,500)

Tudor Black Bay 41 

Tudor Black Bay
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As anyone who collects watches will tell you, the correct number of pieces is exactly one more than you currently have. Tudor’s new Black Bay 41, however, makes a strong argument for a one-watch collection. A classic tool watch, the Black Bay’s understated combination of a 41 mm steel case and bracelet will look good with everything from a suit to swim trunks, and its new in-house automatic movement is rated for exceptional accuracy. Whether he owns a single watch or a dozen of them, there’s a good chance Dad is going wear this one more than any other. ($4,880)

Dior Men Baseball Cap 

Dior Ballcap
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If Dad is a fan of Succession, he may be familiar with the phenomenon of the status cap and its ability to impart the air of formidable power and discerning taste on anyone who wears it. If not, this blacked-out baseball hat, crafted in Italy from high-quality cotton canvas, will be a perfect introduction. Billion-dollar stock portfolio and private jet not included. ($800) 

Nazem Kadri, Athlete

Nazem playing hockey

After a decade playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Kadri secured his place in history by helping the Colorado Avalanche take home the Stanley Cup in 2022, with seven playoff goals and eight assists to his credit. Recently signed to a seven-year, $49-million contract with the Calgary Flames, Kadri is proud to be an executive board member of the Hockey Diversity Alliance and one of the most successful Muslim hockey players of all time. 

What surprised you the most about becoming a dad? 

How fulfilling it is to come home to my little girl. 

What’s the best advice you’ve received about fatherhood? 

Enjoy the early years.

What’s the most challenging thing about fatherhood for you? 

Having patience every day. 

What’s your favourite way to bond with your daughter? 

Watching her play sports and playing them with her.

What’s your favourite “dad hack”? 

I just try to make her as busy as possible during the day, and that always makes bedtimes easier. 

How are you a different parent than your own dad? 

I’m very hands-on, and I enjoy spending quality time with my daughter, just like my dad used to do with me. I would say I’m a more patient man than my father was, which has been key in raising her.

As a dad who travels for work, how do you try to show up for your kids, even if you’re not home? 

Travelling is hard, but my daughter and I FaceTime every day. I’m always checking in to see how her day is going.

Adidas Golf ZG23 Lightstrike Golf Shoes

Adidas Shoes
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In golf, as in so many other areas of life, the right footwear makes a big difference. Adidas Golf’s new featherweight ZG23 Lightstrike is their latest feat in a never-ending quest to give dads (and everyone else obsessed with chasing that little white ball around in their free time) the winning edge. With microfibre leather uppers, a dynamic hybrid midsole, and a six-cleat Thintech outsole, they’re designed to deliver all-day comfort, stability, and maximum performance. You can’t buy Dad a lower score, but this might be the next best thing. ($250)

Louis Vuitton Pacific Chill

Louis Vuitton Pacific Chill Mens Fragrance packshot
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Louis Vuitton’s latest scent takes inspiration from California’s balmy breeze, with purifying notes like black currant and carrot seed giving a nod to the West Coast’s renowned wellness culture. Crafted to “rally the senses,” it evokes the carefree feeling of beach volleyball while staying true to sophistication. The gradient green bottle is sure to please the crowd during Father’s Day festivities – bonus points if it’s a patio dinner or lakeside stroll. ($370)

Citizen CZ Smart Sport

Citizen watch for father's
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Citizen’s newest smartwatch is a wearable personal trainer, with a suite of high-tech software focused on helping Dad reach his peak potential every day of the week. In addition to useful features like a step counter, heart rate monitor, and NFC payment capabilities, the CZ Smart’s new YouQ software leverages AI models built with the IBM Watson Studio and research from NASA to offer personalized wellness insights throughout the day. After a week or so of studying Dad’s activity habits, from his sleep cycle to his exercise regimen, YouQ will begin to provide personalized suggestions to help him maximize his output, including the occasional power nap. What dad wouldn’t want that? ($469)

Timberland Earthkeepers by Raeburn Timberloop Utility Mid Boots 

Timberland boots Father's Day white background
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Dads who love spending time outdoors will appreciate the eco-friendly makeup of these rugged runners, which includes a 100 per cent recycled PET liner, regenerative leather on the toe, heel, and tongue, a regenerative rubber outsole, and organic cotton side panels. Durable and trail-ready, they’re destined to become Dad’s go-to footwear for outdoor adventures, and thanks to the Timberloop process, they can be recycled when he’s done with them. ($200)

Louis Vuitton Andrews Golf Kit

Louis Vuitton Golf
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There’s teeing off and there’s teeing off. This set of three balls and four tees in a signature Monogram canvas case won’t specifically help Dad score under par, but it will help him feel like the most stylish guy on the course while providing a strong motivation to steer well clear of water hazards and woods. You can always spring for Louis Vuitton’s matching Monogram golf bag next year. ($1,080)

Canada Goose Nanaimo Rain Jacket

Canada Goose Nanaimo Rain Jacket

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Canada Goose Nanaimo Rain Jacket

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Canada Goose Nanaimo Rain Jacket

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“There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad gear.” If that sounds like something a dad in your life would say, then he’ll appreciate the quality and attention to detail in this adventure- ready jacket from the legendary Canadian outerwear brand. Heat-sealed seams, an adjustable hood, and scalloped cuffs will keep him cozy and dry on the most blustery of days, whether he’s hitting the trail for a hike or doing a rainy early morning school run. ($595 at Harry Rosen)

TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition 

TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition 

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TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition 

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TAG Heuer’s latest Connected Golf Edition smartwatch brings Swiss precision to the fairways with luxurious details and sophisticated software designed to elevate any player’s game. Presented in a sleek and ultralight titanium case, this next-gen wearable is like a caddy for your wrist, displaying the distance for your next shot as well as club recommendations at a glance. A redesigned interface also makes it easy to control high-resolution 2D maps — complete with hazards and distances — for more than 40,000 golf courses worldwide. ($3,100)

Neil Pasricha, Author 

Our Book of Awesome

In his 20s, following a painful divorce and the suicide of his best friend, Neil Pasricha started a blog called 1000 Awesome Things to try and cheer himself up. A little more than a decade later, he’s a New York Times best-selling author of 10 books with a popular podcast and a full schedule of speaking engagements around the world. His latest title, Our Book of Awesome (Simon & Schuster, $30) brings his uplifting mix of wit and insight to the myriad small joys of being human.

What surprised you the most about becoming a dad?  

There’s a feeling of… not quite immortality, but maybe a lessening of my own self-importance.

What’s the best advice you’ve received about fatherhood? 

“Who you are matters more than what you do.” 

What’s your favourite “dad hack”?  

Keep all the Lego pieces on a blanket. Then scoop up the entire blanket and put it in the bin.  

Have you ever felt constrained by stereotypes about how a dad should or shouldn’t be? 

 These days it feels like we’re past most dad expectations or judgments. For me it’s just a game of time and of savouring. If life expectancy now is 10 decades — knock on wood — there’s only one decade with little kids. So it’s doing all the things that feel implausible but which you’ll never regret. In general, it’s aiming for less programming and more time together.  

What’s the best way to think about parenthood and happiness? 

Nothing matters more to long-term happiness than the strength of your relationship with friends and family. Nothing. Not health, not income, not nationality — nothing. So every father-son hooky day or after-dinner dance party or long chat in the car is ultimately a strengthening of the relationship — and of future happiness. 

Gucci Men’s 1953 Horsebit Loafer

Gucci Loafers leather Father's Day

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A Father’s Day roundup isn’t finished without a proper prep shoe. These Horsebit Loafers from Gucci elevate days at the office and lunches with family alike, pairing well business-casual slacks or everyday chinos. Half an inch in height, the shoes add a slight boost before curving downwards where the gold horsebit detail takes centre stage. ($1,205)

Guess Uomo Acqua

Guess Cologne blue bottle and box white background
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There’s a very good chance that the dad in your life locked in his signature scent a decade or more ago — and an equally good chance that that scent is whatever his favourite brand of drugstore shower gel happens to be. Guess’s latest fragrance, Guess Uomo Acqua, offers the perfect way to elevate his grooming game with a refreshing and vibrant scent inspired by the ocean. With zingy citrus and cucumber top notes, woodsy juniper, and a moody hint of sandalwood, it’s as complex as it is comforting, much like the old man himself. ($75)  

Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio 100th Anniversary

Green car from background
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EVs may be the future, but they’ll never match the pure visceral pleasure of a finely tuned Italian sports car. Released to mark the centenary of Quadrifoglio, Alfa Romeo’s high-performance division, the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio 100th Anniversary has the spirit of a race car, with a twin-turbo V6 engine making more than 500 horsepower and a throaty growl designed to raise the hair on the back of your neck. Befitting its golden year, the 100th Anniversary model receives a set of snazzy gold brake calipers, a carbon fibre grille, gold interior stitching, and a new version of the iconic four-leaf clover badge designed by the Centro Stile Alfa Romeo. All of this adds up to a machine that will put a smile on any dad’s face while shaving a few minutes off his next grocery run. (Price on request)

Paul Newman Print by Al Satterwhite 

Paul Newman Print for Fat
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No matter how cool the dads you know may be, they’ll have a hard time matching the pharmaceutical- grade coolness of Paul Newman trackside at the Sebring 12-Hour race in 1978. her’s Game-faced and tanned, sporting a flame-retardant jumpsuit and the most coveted Rolex watch in the universe, this limited edition portrait of the actor and motorsports enthusiast at the height of his powers is worthy of a place of honour in any man cave. ($13,100 at 1stDibs)

Lego Land Rover Defender 90 Day

Lego Land Rover Defender 90 Day

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Lego Land Rover Defender 90 Day

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Lego Land Rover Defender 90 Day

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Sure, he may spend his days doing grown-up things like going to meetings and shopping around for better insurance rates, but at the end of the day, Dad is still just a kid at heart. If you’re in doubt of this, just look at his face when he unwraps this lovingly detailed 2,300-piece Lego homage to the classic Land Rover Defender. If you’re lucky he might even let you play with it when it’s finished. ($330)

Looking for a little more inspiration? Check out our selections from 2022 below…

We Were Dreamers by Simu Liu

fathers day 2022 in post
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Simu Liu, our SHARP: The Book For Men cover star, shares his origin story in We Were Dreamers. Whether Dad is an avid reader or wants to get into reading, this memoir by Canadian actor and Marvel superhero is an excellent place to start. (Sale price: $25)

Citizen Promaster Dive Automatic

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If Dad is overdue for a new watch, Citizen’s latest launch of the updated Promaster collection arrived just in time. The new range of Promaster Dive Automatic watches are an update to a much-loved classic dive watch from the brand, and is offered in a wide range of dial colours and materials choices. If we had to pick a favourite, it’s the all black ion-plated reference seen here with a fully luminous dial. ($850)

adidas x Gucci Men’s GG Platform Sandals

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Give Dad the best of two brands he loves with these green cotton sponge slides from the adidas x Gucci collab. For at-home lounging, hanging by the pool, or running errands this summer, these sandals are chill and effortless like adidas yet opulent and stylish like Gucci. ($805)

Hennessy XO

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Get Dad a little something you can enjoy together. Booze is always a nice gift and Hennessy XO is a little extra special — with notes of orange rind, butterscotch, dried fruit, and hints of plums and vanilla. ($190)

Louis Vuitton Damier Spread Long-Sleeved Shirt

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Is Dad finally returning to the office? This classic Italian-made white shirt from Louis Vuitton has a printed Damier motif on the chest and shoulders, making it an effortless way for him to make a statement in funky yet appropriate business attire. ($1,460)

Us and Them: Canada, Canadians, and The Beatles

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It’s likely the father figures in your life are fans of The Beatles — and with good reason, of course. This book by John Robert Arnone chronicles the surprisingly deep connection that our nation has with one of the world’s most iconic bands. Your dad will be surprised to see how rich the history really is, and he may never listen to Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and the White Album the same way ever again. (From $30)

Dior Saddle Backpack

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For travel, work, or just on-the-go living, the beige and black Dior Saddle Backpack with the brand’s oblique jacquard and black grained calfskin has many compartments and adjustable straps. It’s sleek, stunning, practical, and will make a great gift for any father figure in your life. ($4,000)

Puma Golf PROADAPT ALPHACAT Golf Shoes

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For the athletic Dads, these Puma Golf PROADAPT ALPHACAT kicks are a solid pick. They’re stylish, comfortable, and high performing due to the use of premium technologies in their production. ($200)

Assouline Rolex: The Impossible Collection

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Assouline is a luxury publisher specializing in fashion, design, travel, and lifestyle coffee table books and their Rolex: The Impossible Collection makes for a superb gift for Dad that’ll look great on any coffee table. Selected by specialist Fabienne Reybaud, the Rolex watch models in this book showcase the most valuable and technically innovative the luxury watchmaker has ever produced. ($1,345)

Away Centerfold Garment Sleeve

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Does Dad travel often for business — or tend to pack his best outfits on his weekend getaways and golf trips? This Centerfold Garment Sleeve from Away is the perfect option to help him pack his best pieces and keep them wrinkle-free, compact, and secure all trip long. ($85)

Moscot Lemtosh Sun Sunglasses

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With both Father’s Day and summer just around the corner, gifting Dad a pair of trendy sunglasses is an excellent idea. Protect his eyes from the harsh sun, while ensuring he’ll be the most stylish-looking guy around. ($415)

Yeti Tundra 35 Hard Cooler

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For the Dad who loves camping, day trips, and keeping his brews cold (up to 21 beer cans to be exact), the Yeti Tundra 35 Hard Cooler is a no-brainer that’ll surely put a smile on his face this Sunday. ($375)

Prada Nappa Leather Shirt

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Show Dad he’s still got it with this Prada Nappa Leather Shirt that you know he can definitely still pull off. The “bluette” shade and the retro-style silhouette make it a chic selection. ($3,750)

Psycho Bunny Classic Baseball Cap

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A baseball hat is a safe choice but this one from Psycho Bunny in azalea pink, takes things up a notch. The shape and style, made from 100 per cent cotton, is a classic one so you know Dad will like it even if he has to step outside his comfort zone a bit to sport a pink cap. ($35 USD)

Drive Time Deluxe Edition: Watches Inspired Automobiles, Motorcycles, and Racing Hardcover

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Drive Time Deluxe Edition focuses on the iconic racing chronographs of the mid-twentieth century (think: Rolex Daytona, Omega Speedmaster, TAG Heuer Carrera, and more), so any watch — or auto — fanatic would likely appreciate this thoughtful gift. ($200)

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Father's Day