Ever have those days where you can’t fathom leaving the house in anything more than a baggy pair of shorts and a graphic tee? Luckily, we have Sandlercore-style to assure us that an intentionally disheveled look is considered fashion. Comedic legend Adam Sandler expanded his repertoire of talents when, in late 2023, Gen Z hyper-fixated on his peculiar fashion sense. Now, fashionistas everywhere are tipping their hats to Sandler and applauding the comfort and carefree aesthetic that is “Sandlercore.”
The Sandler Formula
The Sandlercore fashion category consists of two main elements: comfortable pieces and a carefree mindset.
If one were to ask the Sandman himself, “What’s necessary to embody Sandlercore?” His secret recipe may include something about convenience and feeling good.
Senior psychology major Hunter Bass described what Sandlercore encompasses: “The Adam Sandler ’fit is all about the idea of comfort, with loose lines for all pieces. The big focus is always on how it feels, not how it looks — although that’s a close second.”
Adam Sandler outfits aren’t meant to break the bank or require constant readjustment due to discomfort.
Let’s break down what the essentials are for an Adam Sandler ’fit. First things first: take advantage of what you already have, or, if absolutely necessary, hit the thrift store. At the base, look for any loose-fitting bottoms — jorts, baggy jeans, basketball shorts two sizes too big — anything works as long as it has a slight sag.
Now for the top: we’re talking jerseys, graphic T-shirts, an oversized zip-up or a collared polo. Mix and match these elements with some fun jewelry and stylish sneakers, and you have mastered Sandlercore.
Madame Sandler
TikTok witnessed an influx of attention toward Adam Sandler’s effortless street style at the end of 2023. The Gen Z audience used their hyper-fixation on Sandler’s mismatched, casual outfits to create the trend of “Madame Sandler.” The social media trend featured mostly-female users showcasing outfits correlated with Sandler’s signature style. During this trend, creators paid homage to Sandler’s carefree style by incorporating baggy shorts, vintage T-shirts and patterned button-downs into their wardrobes.
Streetwear has long been a respected genre in the fashion world. While Sandler didn’t invent street style, the buzz around his lackadaisical wardrobe — including the Madame Sandler trend — increased streetwear’s societal recognition. Sandlercore trickled down to many on the Internet, from everyday individuals to fashion and lifestyle influencers like Victoria Paris. Those who recognize that Sandlercore is not just a trend, but a lifestyle, often take these laid-back looks to the next level by integrating accessories that add more flair.
What are you Doing Here?
At the University of Miami, students witness and partake in a fair mix of class outfits, including athleisure, streetwear and business casual. Shoutout to the one student who sits outside Starbucks in a proper suit every day on campus — we applaud your class and sophistication, but we aren’t all built to wear layered, tight-fitting outfits to class.
The perfect solution for those days when you still want to seem stylish but can’t be bothered to throw on anything too intricate is Sandler’s fashion mantra. The idea that “beauty is pain” is much too overrated.
Take a look around campus, and you might notice students have adopted Sandlercore. While waiting for your Wednesday market meal, survey the crowd, and you may spot baggy jorts held up with a thick belt or a football jersey layered over loose jeans. These elements hint at Sandler’s personal style and other forms of streetwear that society has come to love for their chic simplicity.
Senior finance major Lianni Jelves explained her go-to clothing pieces for crafting a Sandler fit: “Jordans, wide-leg Adidas pants, jorts, basketball shorts, and a big T-shirt.”
Jelves said she appreciates Sandlercore for its comfort and flexibility. Who could complain about sitting through class in a loose pair of shorts and a thrifted tee?
Inspo, Please.
Sandler is undoubtedly an icon not just for his hilarious movie characters but for unapologetically rocking his baggy outfits on the streets, and occasionally red carpets. However, there are other public figures to applaud for their own twist on streetwear.
Ulysses Del Pino, a senior political science major, recognizes where he sources celebrity fashion creativity.
“I’m inspired by Billie Eilish, Charli XCX and Virgil Abloh because they each have their own unique take on Adam Sandler streetwear and baggy ideas,” said Del Pino.
Your favorite celebs might also be fascinated with Sandlercore.
Fashion and lifestyle influencer, Selma Kaci, shows off her style through a classy, Parisian take on baggy streetwear.
Naline Pierre, a sophomore psychology major, cited SZA as a Sandlecore pioneer stating, “Her streetwear outfits demonstrate unconventional expression and deft fashion gender norms.”
For students who can’t commit to Sandler’s baggy ensemble, there are plenty of ways to elevate streetwear while maintaining a Sandler-esque style.
“Elevating a casual streetwear look is effortless,” said Del Pino. “Adding a nice jacket over a shirt and accessorizing with jewelry can create a classy yet relaxed look.”
Make the Sandler Switch
The main advantages of Sandlecore are convenience and the endless possibilities for elevation. Grab items off the rack that go unworn and match them with an unconventional pieces of clothing, accessories or jewelry.
“Create a balance of leisure and fashion by easily elevating Sandler-style fashion by playing with patterns, textures, purses and hairstyles,” said Jelves.
Bass said she believes that everyone can test out Sandlercore. “An Adam Sandler fit is easily customizable. Most people have something in their closet that works for this style.”
Next time you wake up too unbothered to plan out a complicated outfit, tune in to your inner Sandler and feel good hitting the streets in a relaxed ensemble that causes heads to turn.
words_remi turner. photo_valeria barbaglio. design_marita gavioti.
This article was published in Distraction’s Spring 2025 print issue.
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