[Eddie Morra]

(11-04-2012 08:09 PM)Rudiger Wrote:  

What about hats for cooler temps. Most men wear base ball cap or stocking caps. I find baseball caps immature, and stocking caps just plain lame. I have a wool fedora like hat and I sort of like it, but I wonder if it's too costume like. Although, I like pre-1970s male fashion. Everyone looked so mature. No shorts no baseball caps. Now everyone looks like a blotchy denis the menice

I wear only "men's driving hats". Google it and look through the images to get an idea. They can be dressy as well as casual.

[SiverFox]

(10-28-2012 10:32 AM)Eddie Morra Wrote:  

Absolutely Dress Your Age! BTW that doesn't mean dressing like an old fogey with his pants up to his chest and wearing trainers.....

I'm 47 and recently (over the summer) did a complete wardrobe overhall spending more than a few thousand in the process. I put together from all the information I could find and read, fashion advice for those of us men over 40 (there aren't many of those blogs and sites over the internet that really specialize in guys our age) However, I did put together a great wardrobe albeit with a lot of time and effort. Tip: watch that movie "Crazy, Sexy, Love" with Steve Carrel and Ryan Gosling to get an idea.

Clothing
-Trousers (various, but basic colors, textures and materials, including one pair of dark blue rinse slim/straight jeans).
-Dress shirts that fit well (Hugo Boss slim fit), many slim fits actually fit me quite well and are not tight fitting(very important).
-Some v-neck athletic t-shirts (from target nonetheless, but great fitting and 100% cotton) surprisingly good quality. Sometimes they have some hidden gems, besides they're just t-shirts afterall and not something I usually wear out unless it's extremely hot or very casual.
-Polo shirts from Banana Republic, you have to really try on a few since even the Polos they carry have different fits and fabrics.
-100% merino wool sweaters in various colors for fall/winter.
-Sport jackets (2 button) a Navy Blue Blazer (had the cheesy brass buttons replaced with sharp pewter ones).
-Learned to get in the habit of wearing sport jackets and blazers on a regular basis not forgeting to keep my top button fastened when standing and unbuttoning when sitting(the mark of a gentleman) no suits or ties (doesn't fit my lifestyle in or out of work).

Accessories
-Started wearing pocket squares (they really add some style and flair).
-For my shirts I bought those working stiffs magnetic collar stays so the collars stay put where I want them and not flying out of my sport jackets and v-neck sweaters.
-Good quality leather belts with plate buckles, color of the leather matches the particular shoes I'm wearing.
-Brown Leather Gloves (Brown is my new black).
-Hat/scarf for winter/fall.
-Socks matching my trousers, not shoes.

Shoes
Speaking of shoes, I shelled out on 2 pairs of Allen Edmonds (one pair of burgundy oxfords, and one pair of the Dalton's in chocolate) Never knew what quality felt and looked like in a pair of shoes until I did, now I'll never go back. Learned to properly take care of them as well as shine my shoes regularly.
-Boat Shoes, Driving Shoes for casual wear. No more trainers unless I'm actually doing a sporting activity!
I had always heard that shoes were the first thing women look at when they size up a man as far as clothes are concerned, and now I can actually confirm this, even passing them on the street, amazing!
-Before winter I'm planning on buying a pair of Barkers (handmade from the UK).

Colors/Staying Away From Trends/Style
I also avoided buying anything in black(not easy to do since black is usually the go to color option for most guys). Additionally, think of your overall wardrobe, stay away from thinking individual pieces or outfits. This way you'll be able to mix and match, everything will go together but in different clothing combinations. I can really stretch out my wardrobe now like never before. Men over 40 should also stick to classic and slightly dressier styles. Stay away from trends, don't dress like guys half your age.

Follow the basics of: Fit, Fabric, Cut(Style) always go for quality in everything. In fact, I hate shopping, but finding the best fitting, going back and forth to the tailor, best fabrics, style etc. takes a lot of trying on, time and patience, so it's something I had to learn to get used to. Fit however is key. You could be wearing an Armani suit, but if it doesn't fit you correctly it will look like a sack of potatoes. I used to buy things in large, some in extra large when my true size was/is actually a medium.

Was it worth it?
Absolutely!
It took a while and I think it is something that men, especially our age, need to keep on top of like staying in shape, but with time, you will hopefully develop a sense of your own personal style, just like your taste in wine, food, travel, literature and of course, women. The biggest compliments, second looks and glances came from women, most of which I had never met, but have complimented me on my style. Even men took some notice(don't know how I feel about that one though).

This post may seem a bit long and self absorbed and I apologize for that. However, for me it was an ending to my own mid-life crisis and a conscious decision to grow old gracefully. When it comes to spending money on nice things, Men under 40 usually have to ask themselves why, men over 40 begin asking themselves why not......

Good luck on your own style journey, I hope that whatever I have said is of some use to you. From one over 40 to another, because growing old gracefully does take some effort.

Great Post Eddie, thanks for that.

[eradicator]

(10-28-2012 04:34 PM)Stitch Wrote:  

But if I had better access to an AE store, I'd be pretty happy with the ones I got from them. Very good construction and a good look.

One word: amazon.

[MikeS]

I say less dress your age and more dress your personality (unless your personality is in dire need of an overhaul).
Walking around in a suit on an everyday basis - to take the extreme of dressing sharply and maturely - would for instance feel completely incongruent with my laid back personality, lifestyle, job and even my means of transportation.
I've looked through fashion threads on this forum and checked out some fashion blogs - and tested some combinations in clothing stores over the years - and even some of the less formal mature clothing like chinos, blazers, boat shoes etc. just feel a bit too dressy and "nice guy" for my taste.

At 38 - fit, athletic build and shaved or very shortly trimmed head (balding slowly since my mid 20s) - I'm essentially still wearing clothing similar to, though better fitted than what I wore in my teens, with the basics being straight cut jeans (usually dark or light blue, with a light wash, otherwise I tend to find them too bland), dark or white one color v-neck t-shirts and, here in the winter, brown leather boots. I'm working on finding appropriate spring and summer shoes, because in that area I have indeed pushed the sneakers - neutral colors and patterns - a few too many years.
Jackets vary, but usually something leaning towards the rugged look, black or brown.

As far as accessories go, occasionally a Fossil watch with a wide, brown leather strap, over an old forearm tattoo. Haven't worn a necklace for years, but have considered trying again.

[SiverFox]

I like this.

(02-19-2015 02:57 PM)MikeS Wrote:  

I say less dress your age and more dress your personality (unless your personality is in dire need of an overhaul).

Question for the over 40 crowd. I like to spend some time with my rugby team (I'm now an "old boy"), they are a fun, fit group, early 20s to early 30s, and always have the hot young ladies around. Most of what we do is very casual, but I'd like some fashion tips for causal dress that still says older, put-together man to attract the young women. I'm in very good shape, full head of hair, very attractive. My usual style for these events is jeans, fairly tight t-shirt and flip-flops. Usually at the bar after games, the guys are in rugby shorts and t-shirts. I don't want to show up over dressed, but still want to compete with the young guys for the girls.

[reco2100]

(05-22-2015 03:16 PM)SiverFox Wrote:  

I like this.

(02-19-2015 02:57 PM)MikeS Wrote:  

I say less dress your age and more dress your personality (unless your personality is in dire need of an overhaul).

Question for the over 40 crowd. I like to spend some time with my rugby team (I'm now an "old boy"), they are a fun, fit group, early 20s to early 30s, and always have the hot young ladies around. Most of what we do is very casual, but I'd like some fashion tips for causal dress that still says older, put-together man to attract the young women. I'm in very good shape, full head of hair, very attractive. My usual style for these events is jeans, fairly tight t-shirt and flip-flops. Usually at the bar after games, the guys are in rugby shorts and t-shirts. I don't want to show up over dressed, but still want to compete with the young guys for the girls.

I think you are on the right track. Except for the flip flops. Wear real shoes. Nthey don't have to be dress shoes but leather. And make them good shoes. Spend the money they will pay off in the long run. Minor details mean a lot. Also make sure whatever you wear it is neat and well fitted and well put together. Remember you are the good looking older guy. The women will take notice of this while your teammates are dressed like children you are dressed like a man.

[BDawg]

Not 40 yet, but I agree with Tom:

When an older man dresses younger, it has the opposite effect intended. He winds up looking older.

Blazers, suits, nice shoes and nice shirts exist to flatter the man. Befriend a good tailor and read books like Alan Flusser's Dressing the Man.

You're free to dress poorly if you want, but there is a certain age when it just levels you as a pleb.

[Carlos100]

(05-22-2015 03:16 PM)SiverFox Wrote:  

I like this.

(02-19-2015 02:57 PM)MikeS Wrote:  

I say less dress your age and more dress your personality (unless your personality is in dire need of an overhaul).

Question for the over 40 crowd. I like to spend some time with my rugby team (I'm now an "old boy"), they are a fun, fit group, early 20s to early 30s, and always have the hot young ladies around. Most of what we do is very casual, but I'd like some fashion tips for causal dress that still says older, put-together man to attract the young women. I'm in very good shape, full head of hair, very attractive. My usual style for these events is jeans, fairly tight t-shirt and flip-flops. Usually at the bar after games, the guys are in rugby shorts and t-shirts. I don't want to show up over dressed, but still want to compete with the young guys for the girls.

High quality tapered or straight-fit jeans, a polo shirt or button down shirt (either short sleeve or long sleeve with the sleeves rolled-up) that hugs your figure (but not too tight) and isn't too loose around the neck (this is one of the most important details, if you button the top button you should just be able to slide two fingers into your collar), and shoes that are just slightly dressier than your mates. For example: bucks, leather sneakers, long wing bluchers, or desert boots/chukkas.

If you want to dress up a little more, try a really casual sport jacket over a t-shirt, polo, or OCBD. A thin cotton, unstructured, unlined jacket with patch pockets and no vents will look really casual yet classy, so it won't look like you're trying too hard to outdress everyone.

[SiverFox]

Gents, thanks for the tips. Fit is key, I want to get some custom made shirts but I get in this cycle of "I'll do it as soon as I lose 5 more lbs". I'm just going to do it and have the shirts tailored as needed.

(05-22-2015 06:05 PM)reco2100 Wrote:  

I think you are on the right track. Except for the flip flops. Wear real shoes. Nthey don't have to be dress shoes but leather. And make them good shoes. Spend the money they will pay off in the long run. Minor details mean a lot. Also make sure whatever you wear it is neat and well fitted and well put together. Remember you are the good looking older guy. The women will take notice of this while your teammates are dressed like children you are dressed like a man.

[Dusty]

Don't overlook how important it is to be in good shape to make your fashion look good.

If you are reasonably fit, without a huge gut and with a good posture, and some muscle on your chest, shoulders, guns, etc, anything you wear is going to look so much better.

[MrXY]

(05-23-2015 03:46 AM)Carlos100 Wrote:  

If you want to dress up a little more, try a really casual sport jacket over a t-shirt, polo, or OCBD. A thin cotton, unstructured, unlined jacket with patch pockets and no vents will look really casual yet classy, so it won't look like you're trying too hard to outdress everyone.

I rock this look frequently in warm weather and it's a great look. As you say , it's "casual yet classy". Looks like you just threw something on, but naturally your something is a level above other guys.

I have several cotton or linen sportcoats which are light and unstructured and super comfortable.

It's a great way to more subtly peacock for an older guy and trust me you will get lots of female attention dressing like this.

[rudebwoy]

(05-23-2015 12:03 PM)Dusty Wrote:  

Don't overlook how important it is to be in good shape to make your fashion look good.

If you are reasonably fit, without a huge gut and with a good posture, and some muscle on your chest, shoulders, guns, etc, anything you wear is going to look so much better.

Not to derail the thread but this beyond important, once you are over 40 the main concern is to keep the belly off.

I am not entirely sold on blazers, sure they look sharp but they scream mature man which isn't always the look I am trying to portray. I find in Europe you can get away with it, but where I live it seems overdressed. I wear suits to work, so on weekend I like to be a lot casual.

Accessories like a bracelet, whether it be leather or silver can add a lot to a look. V-necks are a new staple and I nice pair of jeans, which seems harder to find these days. I use to buy G-star, all of a sudden they have gone with the skinny leg design which no longer fits me.

[Lochte]

I'll add that once you have a better idea of your fit, going to second hand stores for high end dress clothes is well worth your money.

I'll spend 20 dollars on a 200 dollar jacket that's barely been worn, and then spend maybe 25 dollars at a tailor making it fit perfect. Throw in a dry clean and that's 50 dollars for something worth hundreds

[reco2100]

(05-23-2015 03:32 PM)Lochte Wrote:  

I'll add that once you have a better idea of your fit, going to second hand stores for high end dress clothes is well worth your money.

I'll spend 20 dollars on a 200 dollar jacket that's barely been worn, and then spend maybe 25 dollars at a tailor making it fit perfect. Throw in a dry clean and that's 50 dollars for something worth hundreds

So true. Find a second hand store near an expensive neighborhood.

[Carlos100]

(05-23-2015 02:03 PM)MrXY Wrote:  

(05-23-2015 03:46 AM)Carlos100 Wrote:  

If you want to dress up a little more, try a really casual sport jacket over a t-shirt, polo, or OCBD. A thin cotton, unstructured, unlined jacket with patch pockets and no vents will look really casual yet classy, so it won't look like you're trying too hard to outdress everyone.

I rock this look frequently in warm weather and it's a great look. As you say , it's "casual yet classy". Looks like you just threw something on, but naturally your something is a level above other guys.

I have several cotton or linen sportcoats which are light and unstructured and super comfortable.

It's a great way to more subtly peacock for an older guy and trust me you will get lots of female attention dressing like this.

I have a thin, blue sport jacket I bought from AmericanEagle which fits this description. It cost me something like $40 and it's more comfortable and, arguably, easier to pull off then my more expensive linen blazers from J.Crew. I wish super casual sport jackets like that were easier to find.

[SiverFox]

Gents, I recently started a new contract at a startup full of 20 something hipsters in skinny jeans and t-shirts. It's downtown and requires much walking to get around. I'm one of the few over 40 and am looking for some fashion suggestions for when I go into the office. The first day, I wore my #1 fitted business causal clothes and got a couple double takes from the (ugly) 20-somethings. I'm looking for some fashion suggestions to 1) fit in 2) look better than everyone else and 3) (most important) great shoes that look good and are comfortable.

[Guitarman]

Silver Fox,I think it would be a mistake to try and emulate the hipsters. Stick to something smart, professional looking,less formal than you currently wear yet classic. What immediately comes to mind is stone/ beige Cotton chinos, short sleeved shirts (no tie) and brown loafers. Comfortable yet classic and casual businesslike. That was what was popular at my last place of employment. Maybe add a casual jacket if you like.

I think for most of us, the term "40+ Fashion" is something of an oxymoron.

I've always tended to prefer classic practical clothes rather than worrying about "fashion".

[WestIndianArchie]

As a 40 year old,

Your style guides are

David Beckham - 40
Clooney - 53
Pitt - 52
Cruise - 53
Drop - 52

There are plenty of 40+ guys that look like Rubio and Cruz (and worse or more boring). Avoid that stodginess.

If you have access to some funds read LEON, a Japanese style magazine for the mid career set.

WIA

[toejam]

I go out in bespoke suits, tie and all. Tailored shirts , pocket squares, the whole nine. My trousers have no belt loops so I tend to rock braces (suspenders)
Is this overkill?
I find it hard to change but I love my suits. Compliments everywhere I go
39 y/o