There is so much fashion advice you can search on the internet about how older men should dress. Are you a man in your 40s, 50s, or even older? What should you wear? Do you need to change your style? Is it time to wear dad jeans and cargo shorts?
The topic of menswear can get a bit confusing as you age since there are so many factors you need to consider like how your body is changing, you’re stuck in your ways, you feel that you’re trying too hard when wearing stylish stuff, and many more.
But don’t worry, dressing up in your 40s and beyond is not that tricky! All you need is to understand some style principle that will make sure you have a sharp-looking, well-curated, and age-appropriate wardrobe that’s works now, and for the years to come. So, just keep on reading!
Proper Fit and Proportion Are Essential
Plenty of middle-aged or older men clothing is either too oversized or too cosy. You’re probably be wearing clothes that once fit you but don’t anymore. Or most likely you think that larger clothes are more comfortable. You need to know that well-fitting clothing doesn’t automatically mean that it’s uncomfortable.
It’s normal that as we age, our body shapes and proportions can change, and if we want to look and feel good, we choose to wear clothing that complements those changes. The key here is to try a lot of stuff on. This may sound or feel like a chore for some, but it’s the only effective way to begin understanding how clothes should fit.
Go for a trip to the mall and pick the size you think you are. Then grab another one that’s one size up and one size down, and make sure you try them all on. You can take a picture in the mirror and check what feels right. Or you can ask a friend or your partner to go with you if you need to and ask their opinion about how some of the pieces you’ve picked fit.
When picking a fashion style, take note that clothes must allow you the freedom to move without having to be oversized. It’s about balance!
Get Some White Crisp Tees
Don’t just get any plain white tees, choose the ones that are crisp. And when wearing a white t-shirt by itself, make sure that it’s completely in pristine condition, which means it should be cleaned, ironed, and well-folded. Otherwise, you’ll be looking like you just woke up from bed.
While a wrinkled white tee might look cool if you’re a young drummer in a band, it’s not going to be appropriate for a decent older man. So, you might want to stay away from extremely edgy streetwear clothing or shirts.
Avoid Denim on Denim
Wearing denim on denim is an amazing look for young hipsters, but once you get 40, it’s obviously impossible to wear clothing with a touch of irony. If you want to know what we think, try not to! If you’re going to wear jeans, choose something that’s a casual button-down or a simple tee on top.
We recommend mixing denim and chambray shirts with tan or brown chinos. Also, denim jackets must not be partnered with any other blue jeans pieces.
Opt for Plain and Classy Sneakers
Of course, you’re still allowed to wear sneakers, even with business casual clothes! Sneakers are great for any weekend look and provide an awesome vibe without having to look like you’re trying too hard. If you don’t have any, you can start investing in a classic pair of all white from Adidas, New Balance, or Nike. However, it must go without telling that you must refrain from any neon colours, blue denim paired with black shoes, and other styles with distinct orthopaedic feels.
The secret to getting the perfect pair of sneakers for your age is to stick to a simple low-top leather sneaker, away from strong and bold branding or design elements. The best thing about minimal leather sneakers is that they’re age-and-trend-independent which basically mean that they’re appropriate for a 60-year-old as well as a 20-year-old.
Men’s Fashion Beginner Shopping List for 40+-Year-Olds
Now that you know some of the most basic principles we’ve discussed above, here is a list of the fashion essentials you must have that’s appropriate for you! Just take note that this list is a brief one but it will sure get you started as long as you need the basics.
SHOES
- White or neutral colours
- Suede chukka boots or leather work boots
- Brown brogue lace-up dress shoe
- Tan leather loafers
PANTS
- Dark khaki chinos or in charcoal grey
- Dark blue denim
- Mid-grey wool trousers
SHIRTS
- Plenty of plain tees in grey, navy, white, or black
- Oxford cloth button-down shirts (at least 2) in white and light blue
- Casual button-up shirts (at least 2-4) in menswear neutrals
JACKETS
- Charcoal peacoat or overcoat
- Parka or puff coat
- Leather jackets
- Bomber jackets
- Field jackets
- Harrington style jackets
MID LAYERS
- Jersey cotton crew neck sweatshirt
- Quilted vest
- Midweight cashmere or merino wool crew neck or V-neck sweater
FORMAL
- Brown or tan plaid sport coat/blazer
- Single-breasted navy suit or white dress shirt
- Ties in burgundy, navy, or forest green (at least 2). Plain or in prints.
- Pocket square in white or prints.
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