Dads have officially been voted the most embarrassing parent - by their own kids. Researchers found that children are most likely to be left red-faced by their father thanks to their bad fashion sense, lack of style and even the car they drive.
In fact, youngsters admitted to being so embarrassed by their dad that they avoid inviting friends back to their house and get him to drop them off around the corner from a meeting point so no-one sees them; some even refuse to be seen in public with him altogether.
The study also revealed that 60% believe their dad lacks any flair for fashion, while a further 60% of youngsters reckon their dad thinks they are cooler than they really are.
Among the crimes against fashion are bad hairdos, dodgy specs, high waistbands and wearing socks with sandals.
A spokesperson for Specsavers, which commissioned the research, said:
''Most of us have been embarrassed by our old man at some point and usually, the most humiliating experiences take place during your teenage years when your dad's dodgy dress sense and mortifying behaviour can seem like the worst thing in the world.
''While there is no doubt our dads could do with a bit of assistance in the style department, what normally embarrasses us in our early years endears them to us later in life.
''So kids need to help dads in designer distress to transform from dodgy to dapper.
''Some simple style advice on a cool haircut, new jeans and some funky specs can make the world of difference.''
The study of 2,000 13-21 year olds revealed:
- Eight in ten are often cringing at their dad (with three quarters saying they are ashamed by the things he says in front of other people);
- 28% feel humiliated about the clothes he wears, with 15% hating his hairstyle;
- Another one in 20 even moan about their fathers dated glasses.
Hobbies and social-skills were the next biggest cause for embarrassment; a third of youngsters admitted to being so mortified by their dad that they make them drop them off around the corner from where their friends are waiting, whilst another one in five refuse to let their dad give them a lift anywhere at all.
30% also avoid kissing or cuddling their old man in public, while one in ten would completely ignore them if they bumped into them in the street; a further three in ten admitted to refusing to be seen in public at all with their dad.
The study was commissioned by Specsavers to launch its nationwide campaign, Dob in your Dad, which aims to find Britain's least fashion-savvy dad and help him turn over a new style leaf.
