You know the drill: You start your Father’s Day shopping and either spend hours trying to think of the perfect gift, or wind up having to hit up four different stores to find what you want—shoes from one place, polo from another—only to suddenly realize you’ve spent the whole day running around.
The truth is, we want to show the dads in our life how special they are—but are also totally on board with it being just a little easier. That’s what we love about Darien Sport Shop. A longtime Serendipity favorite, they’ve been a mainstay in Darien for 77 (!!) years, and offer up everything you need—from shirts and shorts to sneakers, watches, and accessories—all in one place.
But it’s also about the exceptional service and connection with their customers. “About six years ago one of our longtime customers came up to me in the store and said ‘You guys should be carrying Faherty. Their stuff is awesome,’” explains Gina Zangrillo, the store’s owner and CEO. Now, it’s one of their most popular menswear brands. “My father, Steve Zangrillo, who opened Darien Sport Shop in 1946, always stressed why it’s so important for us to connect and listen to our customers. They really know what they are looking for.”
“It’s those lessons and fond memories of my dad that make Father’s Day even more special for me and Darien Sport Shop,” Zangrillo added.
And now, to help you find what you’re looking for, we’re spotlighting three great brands—and handpicked gift ideas from each—all available both in-store and online.
Faherty
Laid-back dad? “Faherty has great quality in their fabrications, and their designs are unique but also perfect for the everyday guy,” says Zangrillo. Plus, sustainability is a big push here, with options like organic cotton and pieces made from recycled materials. “Being sustainable is just far more top of mind in all aspects of our lives than it used to be, which is a great thing, so it’s only natural that an increased awareness and curiosity has translated into the realm of fashion,” says Zangrillo.
What we love:
All-occasion shorts $128
Throw-on hoodie $98
Perfect polo $158
johnnie-O
Founded by John O’Donnell, this California-based brand focuses exclusively on menswear. “johnnie-O brings the West Coast vibe to Fairfield County,” says Zangrillo. “Their performance polos, tee shirts, shorts and swimsuits are just really easy to wear—dad’s love them.”
What we love:
Statement shorts $98
Up to par $98
Performance pants $178
Peter Millar
“Another thing my father taught me was that if you believe in a brand, like we believe in Peter Millar, you have to stand behind it,” says Zangrillo. “We’re in our second decade of offering what I believe is the best selection of Peter Millar in Fairfield County.” And now you can expect even more: This summer, the store is launching a new Crown Shop, which will expand their offerings of this North Carolina-based menswear brand. What makes the product stand out? “I think it’s their quality, sophistication, and versatility that separate them from the rest,” Zangrillo explains.
What we love:
Smart sneaker $175
Stylish sport shirt $200
Statement swimwear $100
Want more?
Head to the store—at 1127 Post Road in Darien—for special shopping events with all three brands throughout the month of June. That includes:
June 3: Peter Millar
June 10: johnnie-o
June 17: Faherty
And shop the store’s complete collection—which includes options for women, kids, home and accessories—at dariensport.com.
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
1127 Post Road
Darien, CT 06820
203-655-2575
