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Key Fashion Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Consistency Over Trends
If our twenties are for sartorial experimentation and our thirties are about establishing a personal style, then our forties, fifties, and beyond should focus on consistency. Nothing shouts “midlife crisis” like a middle-aged man bouncing between trends while wearing skin-tight trousers and overly stiff leather jackets.
Be Stylish and Unexpected
Middle age doesn’t mean boring fashion. For stylish and unexpected looks, see Ryan Reynolds in Brunello Cucinelli ensembles, David Beckham in Loro Piana, or Jude Law in tailored Brioni pieces. The key is to follow a few basic ground rules.
Avoid the Blazer and White Shirt Trap
Finding a go-to style is helpful, but don’t settle for the same look as every other man. The blue blazer and white shirt combo is overdone. Try a tan or brown formal shirt, lightweight denim, or a fine gauge Merino polo shirt in a darker color.
Focus on Fit
Take everything you buy to a tailor, even your jeans. Ill-fitting trousers, dragging hems, and jackets that are too long in the sleeve or too big will look better if tailored. It’s non-negotiable once you hit middle age.
Make an Effort
Avoid making no effort at all. Ensure your wardrobe consists of classic menswear silhouettes in good quality fabrics: a beautiful wool overcoat, organic cotton shirts, unstructured tailoring, extra fine knitwear, and premium white tees.
Dress Your Age
Opt for timeless over trendy. Skip logos, steer clear of synthetic fabrics, and deploy color with care. Stick to a neutral color palette with an odd, brighter accent.
Avoid Tight Chinos
As we age, our bodies change, and so should our wardrobes. Avoid ultra-tight clothing. Instead, choose well-cut, relaxed-fitting clothing or pleated chinos with a higher rise.
Ditch Ill-Considered Accessories
Replace cheap nylon backpacks and canvas totes with a decent leather bag – tote, briefcase, or backpack. It will age well and lend gravitas in meetings.
Keep Your Shirt Tucked In
A crumpled, untucked work shirt makes a middle-aged frame look unkempt. Keep your shirt neatly tucked into your waistband unless you’re on a tropical holiday.
Don’t Forget Haircuts
Stray, unruly hairs can add years to your appearance. A flattering haircut, trimmed facial hair, and moisturized skin and lips are increasingly important. Find a barber who can manage all three.
Find a Personal Aesthetic
Avoid too much sartorial pinballing. Find your personal aesthetic and stick within a genre of menswear. This will become your signature look, making you appear refined and considered.
Proper Outerwear
Avoid wearing a plastic puffer for city wear. To elevate your working wardrobe, opt for a sleek, tailored wool coat in a monochrome shade.
Good Shoes
Bad shoes can undermine a good outfit. Focus on quality and elegance. For a more refined look, choose beautiful brogues over casual sneakers.
FAQs
Q: What is a common fashion mistake middle-aged men make? A: A common mistake is sticking to the blue blazer and white shirt combo. Experiment with different colors and styles to avoid looking dull.
Q: How important is the fit of clothing? A: Fit is crucial. Ill-fitting clothes can make you look sloppy. Always take your clothes to a tailor to ensure they fit properly.
Q: How can middle-aged men stay stylish without looking too young? A: Stick to classic menswear silhouettes in good quality fabrics. Avoid logos and synthetic fabrics, and opt for a neutral color palette with occasional brighter accents.
Q: What accessories should middle-aged men avoid? A: Avoid cheap nylon backpacks and canvas totes. Invest in a decent leather bag, which will age well and add sophistication.
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