SHARP DRESSED MAN; For Men’s Style Over 50 - Think Less ZZ TOP More 007

Men’s style over 50 with our comprehensive guide of wardrobe essentials from formal to casual wear, colours and accessories. For a mature sophisticated look.

LIFESTYLE EDITOR’S PICKS

9/13/2024

Well dressed man standing port side at golden hour
Well dressed man standing port side at golden hour

Ditch the Duds: Closet Clear-out for Men Over 50

Alright, gents, before we get too far down the road of fine fabrics, snappy shirts, and dapper duds, let's do a little housekeeping. Go into your closet - yes, right now (just remember to take your phone with you) and take a long, hard look at what’s hanging in there. You know what’s coming next. We need to have ‘the’ talk. It’s time to say goodbye to some of those old faithfuls that, well, haven’t exactly stood the test of time (or taste).

Here’s your marching order: stick a charity label on any of the following offenders:

1. Band T-shirts: You’re not on a reunion tour, and the Stones aren’t swinging by for drinks.

2. Crocs: Seriously, do I really need to explain this one?

3. Oversized logos or designs: If people need to take a step back to read your shirt, it’s too loud.

4. White socks: Unless you’re practicing your moonwalk, these things have got to go.

5. Crocs: I know. I’m saying it twice because they’re really that bad. Comfort is no excuse, my friend.

6. Cargo shorts (or trousers): If the pocket-to-hand ratio exceeds two, you’re carrying too much baggage - in more ways than one.

7. Hawaiian shirts: Let’s leave the tropical prints to your vacation, and even then…proceed with caution.

Once you've taken care of that - congratulations. You’ve survived the first step of dressing sharp. Now that we’ve freed up some closet space, let’s get into how to restock it with style.

Fit First, The Key to Dressing Sharp

Listen, gents, even the finest threads will betray you if they don’t fit right. It doesn’t matter how much you spend - if your shirt is billowing in the wind or your pants are sagging like a bad mood, you’re out of the game. Proportions matter, gentlemen. Whether you're donning a tailored suit or a casual Oxford shirt, the fit is the make-or-break of it.

When was the last time you were properly measured? Honestly. I’m not talking about standing on your bathroom scale and sucking it in. Take the time to visit a tailor, you’ll thank me. A sharp fit can make it look like your gym game is on point - no hall-of-mirrors effect here, just sleek lines and a confident stride.

Casual Doesn’t Mean Sloppy - Essential Staples for Men Over 50

A casual look doesn’t mean slapping on whatever's lying on top of the laundry pile. Stick to the classics: chinos, a crisp button-down Oxford shirt, and a good pair of leather boots (brown, of course). That combo can take you just about anywhere.

Want to step it up a notch? Throw on a single-breasted, notched lapel blazer. This isn’t just for the office - this piece will have you looking like you’re ready to own the room, whether it’s a dinner party or a first date. And please, pay attention to the details. Your brown leather boots? They deserve a brown leather belt to match. And for all that’s sacred, no nylon belts. You’re not parachuting out of a plane.

One more thing, ditch the Apple Watch unless you’re actively counting steps. Instead, go for a sleek analogue watch with a strap that complements your shoes and belt. No need to break the bank, just keep it timeless.

Formal but Effortless

Formalwear is where you really want to shine. Keep things classy and stick to well-tailored suits. No skinny fits - trust me, you're not auditioning for a boy band. We’re talking James Bond level of sophistication. For winter, think navy or mid-grey tones in wool or a wool-silk-cashmere mix. Pair it with a white shirt and a classic black Oxford shoe, and you’re good to go. End of discussion.

For summer, lighten things up - pale blues, khakis, and a sharp linen suit will keep you cool and composed. Match them with suede loafers or desert boots in mid-tan, and you’ll look every bit the sophisticated, well travelled gentleman, minus the sweat.

The Shirt Situation - Don’t Overthink It

When it comes to shirts, less is more. Just three colours will get the job done: white, pale blue, and light pink. Soft button-down collars for casual, stiffer, straight point collar for formal. Regardless, these three colours will carry you through any situation and pair perfectly with both casual and formal outfits. Variety is overrated, stick with the classics and you’ll always look sharp.

Sweaters: The Unsung Heroes

Now, let’s talk sweaters. You don’t need a whole closet full of them, either. Stick to three key styles:

1. The Crew Neck: Perfect for layering over crisp a white T-shirt. Toss it on with your chinos, and you’re golden.

2. The Roll Neck: For when the temperature drops and you still want to look suave. Merino wool is your best friend here, light, breathable, and warm without the bulk. Perfect for under a suit or blazer.

3. The Shawl-Collared Cardigan: This is your secret weapon. Wear it over an Oxford shirt, and you’ve got instant style. Bonus points if it’s a chunkier cable knit, way to up the cozy factor.

Classic Fabrics for Men Over 50

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “But what about all these fancy technical fabrics? Don’t I need moisture-wicking, wrinkle-free, four-way-stretch for my coffee date?” Short answer: No.

Keep the tech gear for the gym. When it comes to your day-to-day wardrobe, stick to natural materials. Cottons and linen for summer, flannels for the cooler months. If you’re feeling fancy, toss in a little cashmere - it’s soft, warm, and it just feels expensive. Because sometimes, you’ve got to treat yourself.

Go-To Colour Combinations

Feeling overwhelmed by the idea of mixing and matching? Relax. I’ve got you covered with a cheat sheet of foolproof colour combos:

1. Grey Base: Pair with navy, white, and pink.

2. Black Base: Mix with white and grey. Toss in a little pink if you are feeling exuberant and crave a little flamboyance.

3. Olive Green Base: Works a charm with khaki, pale or navy blue and chocolate browns.

Stick to these combinations, and your wardrobe will always play nice with itself, giving you maximum bang for your buck with minimal effort.

Accessorise Like a Pro

Here’s the deal: Simple is Always Better.

- Wallet: Leather, always leather. No date wants to hear the prepubescent rip of Velcro when you pick up the tab.

- Watch: Stick with two options. A slimmer dress watch with a black leather strap for formal occasions, or a chunkier sports watch with a brown leather or steel band for casual wear. Remember, other than a wedding ring, a watch is the only jewellery a gentleman needs.

And there you have it. You’re well on your way to becoming the ‘sharp dressed man’ in the room, no ZZ Top beard required (though if you’ve got one, more power to you). Keep it classic, keep it simple, and above all, keep it well-fitted.

Because 007’s got nothing on you, my friend.