Photo Credit ( Pixabay)
Even if ‘dad style’ isn’t solely the product of copy-hungry journalists, the press loves to subtly make fun of it. I observed a father and son in town the other day. They both wore strikingly white sneakers, black jeans, and black quilted jackets with big brand labels. The elder man didn’t look well, but the young man did. Why? How can the older man discover style and dress effectively without coming out as overly forced or out of place?
In my opinion, “dad style,” as it has come to be characterized disparagingly, can mean two things:
- To start, an older man dressed in clothing that would suit this son better. In essence, he is refusing to let go of his waning youth by dressing younger than he actually is. Although it may sound harsh, true style entails embracing your individuality and dressing in ways that reflect it without overtly expressing your desire to be someone else.
- The second is the elderly man who is caught in “older man” fashion because he doesn’t care about appearance or knows of any alternative options. The lack of any color or shape, the boxy jacket, the ill-fitting, shapeless pants, the grey or white trainers, and the dog-eaten tweed cap. This man believes he is too old to give a damn.
Both of these dad styles include men that I would love to inspire through my site, demonstrating to them that genuine style doesn’t bother or try to be someone you’re not, but instead respects age and personality.
How to stay away from “dad style”
Avoid dressing more like a young man. Generally speaking, this won’t make you appear younger or cool. ‘with general’ is what I mean because some older men can look nice with tight jeans, baseball caps, and white sneakers, but you should never take the chance unless you are sure of the outcome. Steer clear of narrow lapels, slim fits, overshort coats, brand logos, and sneakers (unless they are athletic).
Avoid becoming mired in ‘older guys’ fashions that lack shape. Above all, your clothing needs to fit properly. If you purchase ready-to-wear, have a tailor make the necessary adjustments. Look for well-made clothing (and footwear) with timeless designs and shapes. Combine them with denim or chambray and classic, well-tailored jackets and pants (try turn-ups for extra character) for a subtle, classy appearance. Use high-quality accessories, pocket squares, and scarves to provide new pops of color. Keep in mind that denim may be worn by men of any age as long as it fits your style and age.
Don’t worry about being larger or smaller than normal; instead, concentrate on purchasing clothing that fits. Most men purchase clothing that is too big, which rarely looks nice.
Above all, don’t strive to be someone you’re not; instead, wear what makes you feel comfortable. The elder man needs to have the maturity to develop his own sense of style without imitating younger people or becoming mired in the bland appearances of older men.
