It's time to ensure your dad is the best-dressed on the block. Lisa Haynes presents a guide to stylish summer menswear.

David Beckham and Mick Jagger are widely reckoned to be 'cool dads' but there are millions of ordinary fathers to whom that epithet won't apply.

There's the embarrassing wedding dancing, bad jokes and let's not even go there with the socks and sandals combo.

But all is forgiven with the free labour that fathers provide over the years, from handyman to taxi driver.

So why not repay the favour by becoming his personal stylist and steering him in the right fashion direction this Father's Day.

"Dads can look cool but don't have to dress like a teenager to do it," says Jonathan Lovett, head of design at Burton.

"Men don't always dress according to age these days and that's great. However, it's still important to think about body type - skinny jeans just don't work on rugby player thighs. Think about pieces that look effortlessly cool, but not like he's trying too hard!"

No matter what your dad's style, there's a summer look to suit, ranging from dapper to super-casual. Transform your papa with our expert guide.

Creative dad

He doesn't need to dress like Liam Gallagher and accessorise with heavy sideburns to channel an indie or rocker look. If music's his passion and he wants his wardrobe to hit the right notes, go with of-the-moment Mod-inspired style.

"Gingham shirts, denim jackets and slim-fit chinos are a good way to rock the look and bring out his inner Paul Weller," Lovett advises.

"The Nineties trend, which we're seeing at the moment with graphic print tees, is also great for indie dads. Try not to overdo the look though, as you could run the risk of looking a bit scruffy or try-hard."

Business dad

If your dad's idea of a 'man bag' is a briefcase, a snazzy tie will never go amiss on Father's Day.

Give Alan Sugar a run for his money with classic club stripes or block colours for a timeless look. Paisley and geometric prints will make more of a statement in the boardroom.

Lovett says: "Nothing beats a crisp white formal shirt in the style stakes and it will update any suit he might have tucked away in the wardrobe.

"A good quality lightweight blazer will also ensure he looks business-smart in the summer months."

Trendy dad

There's no need to take the fun out of fashion if your dad acts younger than his years. Grandad cardigans just won't cut it.

Even pensioners can look more youthful by rolling up a trouser hem or experimenting with fun prints this summer.

"The young-at-heart will look great in a surf-inspired graphic T-shirt or Hawaiian print shirt for holiday time," suggests Alan Cook, design manager for BHS menswear.

"Print is a massive trend for this summer so go mad on florals and nautical-inspired boat prints. Swim shorts are another way to parade prints with retro surf or tropical floral designs."

Traditional dad

With the British summer's unpredictable weather, a lightweight summer knit will make for a good investment. A shawl collar cardigan is on-trend, classic and can be worn instead of a jacket.

Steer clear of crazy prints or casual T-shirts and stick to a safe, neutral palette.

"Cool, cotton tailoring is perfect for a dad with more traditional tastes," says Cook.

"Lightweight blazers in smart navy, tan or classic ticking stripes look great with crisp, smart cotton chinos and fresh linen shirts. Top off the look with a pocket square for a classic nod to smart summerwear."

Sporty dad

He doesn't have to play polo like Prince Harry to score on style points with a dressed-down look. Leave the football strips for match days.

"The best way to do sporty is with a polo," recommends Cook. "Look to on-trend vintage wash polos in bold bright colours like coral, cobalt or purple, or a more traditional crisp pique polo in classic red or navy."

Fashion-forward dads can go a little more directional with a polo in pastel colours or eye-popping print.

If he practically lives at the gym, versatile grey marl jersey is the coolest way to work out. A word of warning that pesky sweat patches will instantly cramp his style.

Buy it now

Boost dads' egos by dressing tots in M&Co's 'Coolio like daddio' T-shirt, £3.50, available from 0-3 months to 18-24 months (www.mandco.com).

Recessionista alert

Step into Brantano's Shoe Exchange to get cash off new shoes and donate to charity. Take old shoes into a Brantano store and the company will give 20p for every pair to Tommy's, a national research charity dedicated to funding research into miscarriage, premature birth and stillbirth. What's more, you'll receive £5 off your next pair of shoes when you spend £25 or more. Offer available until June 30. To find your local store visit www.brantano.co.uk or call 0870 990 1600.