How to dress after forty? Style guide

Style philosophy after forty

Fashion after 40 ≠ fashion for young people
After 40, it's not about chasing trends, but about a well-thought-out, timeless style. Quality over quantity, classic over fast fashion.

Key principles:

• Well-tailored clothes (fit = everything)
• High-quality materials (wool, cotton, linen)
• Subdued colors (navy blue, gray, brown, white)
• Minimalism in accessories
• Attention to detail (shoes, belt, watch)

What to avoid? The most common mistakes

❌ Youth graphics and subtitles
T-shirts with large logos, slogans, characters = beyond your age. Choose plain or subtle patterns.

❌ Tight clothes
Skinny jeans, very fitted shirts = emphasize imperfections. Choose slim fit or regular fit.

❌ Shorts too short
Above mid-thigh = no. Length: knee-length or 2-3 cm above.

❌ Sports tracksuit for everyday use
Tracksuit = gym/home. In the city: chinos, jeans, casual trousers.

❌ Tacky jewelry
Massive chains, shiny bracelets = youthful. Better: a classic watch, a discreet wedding ring.

❌ Trying to look "younger"
Artificial dyeing, youthful hairstyles = opposite effect. Accept your age with dignity.

Wardrobe basics (must-have)

1. A well-tailored suit
Navy blue or gray, wool. Fitted by a tailor. A must-have for events and meetings.

2. White shirts (3-5 pieces)
Oxford, poplin. Long sleeve. With a suit and jeans.

3. Dark jeans (slim/straight)
No abrasions, classic cut. Universal.

4. Chino (beige, navy blue, khaki)
An alternative to jeans. Smart casual.

5. Sweaters (V-neck, round)
Cashmere or wool. Navy blue, gray, brown.

6. Leather shoes (3 pairs minimum)
• Black oxfords (formal)
• Brown derby/brogues (universal)
• Chelsea boots/chukka (casual)

7. Leather strap (black + brown)
Classic buckles, without decorations.

8. Watch
Classic (not a smartwatch for events). Leather strap or steel bracelet.

Sample styles

Office/Meetings:
Suit (no tie OK) + shirt + brown/black oxfords. Minimalist watch.

Casual Friday:
Dark jeans + polo/sweater + brown loafers or Chelsea boots.

Weekend:
Chino + casual shirt/plain T-shirt + minimalist sneakers (white Stan Smith).

Dinner/Event:
Smart casual: flannel pants + shirt + V-neck sweater + monk straps or derby.

Additional tips

1. Take care of your physical condition
The figure is more important than clothes. Sports regularly.

2. Grooming
Well-groomed beard/clean-shaven, short nails, fresh breath.

3. Fragrance hygiene
Discreet perfumes (woody, citrus). Don't overdo it with the quantity.

4. Posture
Simple, sure. Attitude adds years or subtracts them.

5. Invest in quality
Better 2 pairs of good shoes than 10 cheap ones. Same with clothes.