Life is merely just beginning at 40. At 40, you have likely built your career and achieved financial stability. You’ve probably built a family as well. Dress like the confident man you are. Wear stylish attire for any situation without seeming too young or over-the-top mature. Here are six essential tips to keep in mind.
Tip 1: Build a Solid Foundation
Most men in their 40s find themselves slipping into dad wear and forget to invest in essential wardrobe staples. Even though comfort and practicality are key, you should still make your outfit look intentional. Invest in classic pieces like a slim-fit tee, a good pair of jeans and a blazer that fits you well.
A good foundation generally ignores the bursting fashion trends. With everything that you may have going on in your 40s, you may not have the time or the impulse to keep up with pieces that are here today and gone tomorrow. Instead, you should consider leaning into timeless, quality items that last for years and can easily transition from one season to the next.
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Tip 2: Invest in Quality Staple Pieces
Staple pieces are essential because you can use them in multiple situations. For example, you can wear a short-sleeved henley of any color with jeans, shorts or chinos with white or black low-top sneakers for a casual get-together. Or you can layer it with a blazer and dress shoes for a more professional event.
Another ideal staple piece is a pocket t-shirt. They are classic and comfortable and can be worn in a multitude of combinations — from under a cardigan with chinos and loafers to layered under a blazer for formal occasions.
Tip 3: Tailor Your Clothes
Tailoring your clothes is one of the best ways to ensure you look polished and sharp. A great tailor can alter a shirt, blazer or pair of pants to look like the piece was made just for you, taking any outfit from “meh” to “wow.”
The key to tailoring is ensuring the pieces fit properly on your body type. If something feels loose or too tight, get it tailored accordingly. It may cost more money upfront, but it will save time and frustration when trying to find items that fit perfectly every time.
It’s also important to remember that even though alterations are possible, some clothes cannot be saved. If something looks too old and worn, it’s probably best to get rid of it and invest in new pieces.
Tip 4: Dress for the Season
Every occasion or season calls for a different kind of attire. In winter, you want to keep warm and stay stylish with heavier pieces like overcoats, sweaters, scarves and gloves. During the summer, lighter fabrics such as linen or cotton are more appropriate — think light colors paired with neutral tones for a timeless look.
Pay attention to details too. Try a bolder pattern for more formal events or a solid color for casual occasions. A pocket square can add subtle flair to an outfit and doesn’t take much effort to pull off.
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Tip 5: Update Your Footwear
Footwear for men is more than just a fit. They give hints about a person’s character or social and cultural place. They can make or break your look, regardless of how great your other pieces are.
A good pair of Oxfords or loafers can be a wonderful addition to any wardrobe. Keep your options open and invest in a few different shades of leather, like black, brown and tan. If you prefer something more casual, go for slip-on sneakers or boat shoes. Stay away from overly embellished pieces such as studded loafers — these are best saved for younger men.
Tip 6: Accessorize Strategically
Accessories make outfits pop. If you’re stuck in a style rut, try adding some fun accessories to your wardrobe. Accessorizing in your 40s requires a bit of subtlety. A nice watch or a pair of glasses will do the trick — just ensure they complement your other pieces.
For watches, remember that a traditional analog timepiece is always fashionable and appropriate for both casual and formal events. Save the digital watches for activities such as working out or hiking when you need to track time or steps.
If you must wear jewelry, a good rule of thumb is to keep it just one piece beyond your wedding ring and watch. Something like a bracelet or a necklace in a neutral color will complete your look without being too flashy.
Important Considerations
Quality is the rule of the game. Quality pieces often come at a higher price tag, but they look better and last longer. Pay attention to the material, craftsmanship and fit of each piece you buy, and try to invest in quality basics that you can wear for years.
Versatility is key. As men grow older, they tend to go to a wider variety of occasions, from business meetings to weddings. Therefore, when shopping, it’s important to take stock of how your clothes work together and how you can easily switch from one style to another.
The same goes for colors. Stick to the classics like black, white, navy blue and tan when building your wardrobe. These colors are timeless and will go with any other hue you choose for those special occasions.
Finally, always remember that fashion is personal. Define what works for you and stick to it. There are no hard and fast rules, so don’t be scared to experiment with different looks and styles. The key is to be comfortable and confident with what you wear.
Also Read: Tips For Dressing Young And Stylish