At the tender age of one, I underwent my first major style transformation, trading in onesies for jeans, T-shirts, and sneakers. Little did anyone know, this would mark the zenith of my sartorial evolution. Now, at 53, an age at which, historically speaking, many are already pushing up daisies, I still dress like a child.
To be fair, I don’t dress worse than other men my age. In fact, I might even dress better, if only because my sweatshirts are largely hoodless and my T-shirts are mercifully free of slogans. But if men from previous centuries were to see my daily attire, their reaction would likely be a pitying glance and the discreet offering of spare change. For decades, this look has served me well, so well that I never thought to question it. That is until I watched Ted Danson in his new Netflix series, A Man on the Inside. For the first time in my adult life, I thought, I need to dress like him.
Danson’s character, Charles, a retired architecture professor, isn’t donning suits for corporate meetings or weddings, occasions for which I already know how to dress. Instead, he’s dressed for anywhere. His outfits, deep-hued windowpane-pattern jackets paired with sweaters, collared shirts, pocket squares, and ties, are five per cent dandy and 100 per cent classic. They exude a breezy confidence that says, “I’m a human who does not need a ride to the mall.”
Even my 15-year-old son, Laszlo, who also adores this show about retirees, agreed: I should dress like Ted Danson as Charles.
Elevate Your Dressing
Are you tired of being labeled a “man-child” because your wardrobe seems frozen in time, circa high school? It’s time to retire the graphic tees, saggy jeans, and sneakers that scream, “I peaked in 10th grade.” Learning how to dress like a man doesn’t have to be complicated or boring. With a few strategic upgrades, you can transform your wardrobe, boost your confidence, and finally look your age.
Start with the Basics
- Invest in a Well-Fitted Suit: A tailored suit is the cornerstone of a mature wardrobe. Opt for classic colors like navy or charcoal gray, and ensure the fit is impeccable, no baggy shoulders or pooling trousers.
- Crisp Button-Down Shirts: Ditch the wrinkled polos and opt for well-pressed button-downs in versatile shades like white, light blue, and pale pink.
- Timeless Leather Shoes: Swap out sneakers for leather loafers, oxfords, or brogues. They’re versatile, polished, and instantly elevate any outfit.
Upgrade Your Casual Wear
- Tailored Chinos and Dark Denim: Say goodbye to cargo shorts and ill-fitting jeans. Invest in tailored chinos and dark denim that fit well and flatter your silhouette.
- Structured Outerwear: A well-cut blazer or a classic trench coat can instantly elevate even the most casual outfit.
Accessorize Like a Grown-Up
- Classic Watch: A timeless timepiece is the ultimate accessory for a man. Whether it’s a sleek leather-strap watch or a stainless steel model, it adds a touch of sophistication.
- Sleek Belt and Leather Wallet: Ditch the ratty old belt and worn-out wallet. Opt for a sleek leather belt and a quality wallet that exudes refinement.
Master Color and Pattern Coordination
Understanding how to pair colors and patterns is key to avoiding fashion mishaps. Stick to complementary hues and subtle patterns (like Danson’s windowpane jackets) to create cohesive, polished looks.
The Takeaway
Dressing like a man isn’t about adhering to rigid rules. It’s about embracing a style that reflects maturity, confidence, and self-respect. Whether you’re heading to work, a date, or simply running errands, a polished, put-together look can make all the difference.
So, bid farewell to the man-child aesthetic and step into a wardrobe that commands respect. Your future self and everyone around you will thank you. And who knows? You might even inspire a few pitying glances from men of centuries past to turn into nods of approval.