7 ESSENTIAL STYLE TIPS FOR MEN OVER 50 BEFORE YOU SHOP

Navigating the world of fashion in your 50s (and beyond!) may seem daunting, but trust me, it’s entirely achievable. While I can’t personally guide every man receiving an AARP membership in the mail, I can offer you this comprehensive guide to dressing for mature men.

If you’re new to my writing, you might be asking yourself: Caroline, as a 29-year-old woman who spends her free time watching Nordic crime dramas and perfecting my homemade macaroni and cheese, what do I know about the style dilemmas faced by men approaching early retirement?

Well, for one, I have a soft spot for well-dressed older gentlemen.

Every man over 50 has unique wardrobe needs that reflect his personal style and lifestyle. Whether you’re searching for casual attire, looking for shopping recommendations, or simply wanting to elevate your fashion game, dressing well at this age can be just as exciting and diverse as it is for younger men.

Not sure where to begin? No need to fret! Below, 7 tips on nailing mature style for men:

Get a tailor

Everyone I’ve spoken with in the realm of men’s style, especially for those over 50, agrees on one crucial point: the difference between “a guy wearing clothes” and “a well-dressed man” often comes down to good tailoring.

Building a relationship with a tailor is essential for any mature man looking to elevate his style.

Consider your tailor your clothing’s doctor. Just as you have a dentist for your teeth, an internist for your health, and a dermatologist for those pesky moles, it’s time to have a tailor on speed dial to ensure your wardrobe is in top shape.

Now, I can already hear you thinking: “The clothes I own fit me just fine!”

But let’s be real—no man, and I mean none of you, can wear off-the-rack clothing perfectly.

Sure, you don’t need to have every t-shirt tailored or sweatpants hemmed, but those button-down shirts you wear daily with jeans or chinos? Get the sleeves adjusted to the right length.

And don’t forget about those jeans and chinos! 

What about the blazer you wear for dinner with your spouse each week? Could it use a little adjustment to fit you better?

Think of this process like visiting a doctor. You don’t go in every day for every little issue, but for the significant matters, you want to consult a professional. 

Focus on the finishing touches 

When it comes to presentation, the key differentiator between well-dressed men and those who simply wear clothes is the extra attention to detail. These subtle touches may not be immediately noticeable, but once you see them, they make a significant difference.

This attention to detail extends beyond your clothing to grooming, including a well-maintained beard (and nose hairs!), clean nails and cuticles, and a pleasant scent. Just look at the smart tie and coordinating socks worn by Stanley Tucci—voted the most stylish man of 2023 by Style Girlfriend followers!

Accessories are an excellent way to elevate your style as a man over 50. A beautiful scarf can enhance a simple blue overcoat, while the right shoes can complete your outfit—just as easily as the wrong ones can ruin it.

Investing in accessories is a smart choice for your wardrobe. Timeless pieces, like a classic pair of glasses, will never go out of style, and if you choose quality items built to last, you’ll enjoy them for years to come.

I’d like to highlight timepieces: they’re one of the first things I notice on a man. If you wear a watch, I can’t help but notice which one it is.

Let me be clear: you don’t need to spend a fortune on a watch. However, if you can invest in a quality timepiece, it’s often worth it. Even an affordable tank-style Seiko can make you look polished and distinguished.

Invest in forever pieces

By avoiding fleeting trends, you can invest more wisely in your wardrobe. Why? Because when you focus on timeless pieces, you know you’ll wear them for more than just one season.

Instead of purchasing multiple inexpensive shirts and trousers, consider buying one or two high-quality staple items. Then, invest in having those pieces tailored to fit you perfectly. The final step? Embrace the ease and simplicity of cultivating a signature personal style!

Look for brands that prioritize craftsmanship and quality. 

While you may not have the budget to splurge on every item in your closet, you can be strategic about your spending.

Identify the pieces you wear most frequently. If you rarely wear sweaters but often don blazers—think of a post-presidential Barack Obama—prioritize your budget accordingly to reflect your lifestyle.

Lean into a Monochromatic Color Palette

Monochromatic dressing involves combining pieces from the same color family to create a cohesive and polished look. This style not only elongates your body but also gives you a sleek, modern appearance with minimal effort.

Take, for example, the character Steve Martin, 79, plays on Only Murders in the Building. He often sports monochromatic ensembles, like blue jeans paired with a white shirt and a blue knit sweater or overcoat.

For men over 50, these outfits are not only simple to assemble but also effortlessly elevate your style.

You can approach monochromatic dressing in a few different ways. Our favorite at Team SG is the black and blue route—opting for rich, deep blues like navy—or embracing earth tones, such as pairing tan chinos with a chunky oatmeal rollneck sweater.

Aim for leveling up your personal style instead of chasing trends

Here’s a little secret: I often share this advice with my younger clients, but it’s especially true for older gentlemen—dressing for who you are, rather than trying to keep up with the latest trends, makes all the difference.

By midlife, you’ve witnessed countless trends come and go, which makes it easier to identify which cuts and styles flatter you and which colors and textures enhance your personal aesthetic.

Consider what clothing aligns with your lifestyle and which pieces don’t quite fit who you are. 

Think of this guideline not as a limitation, but as a permission slip to bypass fleeting trends. That’s a true luxury! As men age, they naturally become more distinguished—there’s a reason the term “silver fox” is a compliment.

Allyson B. Fanger, the costume designer for Netflix’s (criminally underrated, in my opinion) *Grace and Frankie*, shared that one of the joys of dressing older characters like Robert and Sol—played by Martin Sheen and Sam Waterston, both in their eighties—is that these men have lived rich lives.

The show features two lawyers who leave their wives for each other after their kids have grown up, and their style is spot on.

Robert and Sol don’t need to evolve further in their fashion choices, which makes dressing them all the more enjoyable for Fanger.

They each have favorite brands, signature color palettes, and distinct approaches to style.

Robert is traditional, favoring button-down shirts and chinos—he’s a Brooks Brothers man through and through.

Sol, on the other hand, embodies the spirit of a hippie, opting for Cubavera camp shirts and comfortable Tommy Bahama linen pants.

These characters exemplify how, regardless of personal taste or style, it’s entirely possible to achieve top-notch personal fashion at any age.

Ultimately, knowing who you are and being confident in that is the cornerstone of any man’s style, and that understanding becomes more profound as you accumulate life experience.

Adopt a wardrobe uniform

Larry David, at 76, is a big advocate for uniform dressing. While many people think of a daily uniform as a traditional suit and tie, David exemplifies how versatile and liberating this approach can be.

He’s a king of casual style—if you’re searching for casual clothing ideas for men over 50, the *Curb Your Enthusiasm* star offers an excellent blueprint.

His go-to wardrobe staples include crewneck sweaters, zip-ups, AG 5-pocket chinos, and soft shoulder blazers. 

If the thought of choosing an outfit every day feels overwhelming, this dressing strategy might be perfect for you. 

Consider building a capsule wardrobe filled with a few pieces you love: your favorite pants, a handful of shirts that make you feel your best, and some knitwear or jackets.

And don’t hesitate to buy items you adore in multiple colors! (This is another trick David uses.)

This way, each morning, you can reach into your closet and confidently know that whatever you pick will likely coordinate beautifully.

Be yourself 

It might sound a bit silly to wrap up a list of style tips with a reminder to just accept yourself, but hear me out. You might think, “My style is just a ripped sports jersey and Crocs,” and to that, I say: maybe it’s time for a change! (Just kidding… or am I?)

What I really mean is don’t overthink dressing for a particular age. These style tips are helpful if you’re unsure where to start or want to elevate your look. But if you already have a signature style or enjoy dressing outside the norm, don’t let the number in front of your age hold you back. Embrace what makes you unique and wear it with confidence!

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, navigating style in your 50s and beyond doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Embrace the principles of good tailoring, invest in timeless pieces, and build a wardrobe that reflects who you are. Remember, personal style is all about confidence and authenticity—wear what makes you feel good, whether it’s a classic blazer or a funky shirt.

Don’t shy away from experimenting with accessories and details that can elevate your look. And most importantly, don’t let age define your fashion choices. Celebrate your individuality and express yourself through your clothing. After all, style is a lifelong journey, and it’s never too late to redefine your aesthetic!

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ACHIEVING KOREAN GLASS SKIN

Korean Glass Skin has taken the beauty world by storm, and I’m completely hooked! I’m diving into Korean skincare, exploring the routines, and trying out products — but where do I even begin? Big thanks to Ellie Choi, whose viral glass skin-care routine made this trend explode globally.

It’s more than a trend; it’s an obsession that has captivated the beauty community, and this fascination with Korean glass skin shows no signs of fading. But what does “glass skin” actually mean? Essentially, it’s the goal of achieving skin that’s clear, free of congestion, blemish-free, even-toned, glowing, dewy, and soft — as transparent and radiant as glass itself. It sounds almost too good to be true, but the results are within reach!

Ever wondered why Koreans seem to have such glass-like, radiant, and supple skin? While genetics and diet do play a role, their dedication to skincare is equally important. Koreans treat skincare as a form of self-care, following a routine that could rival that of an aesthetician — and it’s no walk in the park, let me tell you!

The great news? You can achieve that coveted glass skin at home with this straightforward guide! Here, I’ve broken down a step-by-step Korean skincare routine that you can easily follow. You’ll find recommendations for both natural ingredients and Korean products available on the market, so you can customize it based on your preferences.

Ultimately, the choice is yours on how you’d like to approach it, but consistency, the right products, and hydration are key. With dedication and this guide, you’ll be on your way to achieving glass-like, glowing skin at home!

Steps Involved in the Korean Glass Skin Routine

  • Double Cleansing- Oil and Foam
  • Exfoliation 
  • Toning 
  • Essence
  • Serum
  • Sheet Mask 
  • Eye Cream 
  • Moisturizer 
  • Sleeping Mask 
  • Sunscreen

      Step-by-Step Guide to 10-step Korean Glass Skin routine at home

      STEP 1: CLEANSING

      More precisely, the term “Double Cleansing” describes this crucial first step in the Korean glass skin routine. It involves two cleansing stages: first, using an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities, followed by a foam or water-based cleanser to deeply clean the pores. Double cleansing ensures a clean slate, setting the foundation for the rest of the skincare routine and helping you achieve that flawless, glass-like finish.

      Oil Cleansing

      The first essential step in the Korean glass skin routine is oil cleansing. An oil-based cleanser gently removes makeup, dirt, and other impurities from the skin without stripping away its natural moisture. You can use a store-bought oil cleanser or make your own at home using natural oils.

      Oil cleansers are effective at dissolving impurities, leaving your skin clean yet hydrated. For a homemade cleanser, try blending coconut and castor oils — just remember to skip castor oil if you have dry skin, as it can be too drying. Olive oil is an excellent alternative for dry skin, helping maintain a soft, nourished feel.

      DIY Oil Cleanser Recipe

      1. Prepare Your Base Oil
        Start by adding cold-pressed, extra virgin coconut or olive oil to a jar or pump bottle. These oils are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and have natural antibacterial properties.
      2. Melt Coconut Oil (if using)
        If you’re using coconut oil, scoop or pump it into a bowl. Melt the oil by placing the bowl in warm water — avoid using the microwave to preserve nutrients.
      3. Combine Oils
        Add olive oil to the melted coconut oil, then transfer the mixture into a bottle. Shake well before each use, as the oils may naturally separate over time.
      4. Customizing for Skin Type
        • For Oily and Acne-Prone Skin: Add a few drops of tea tree oil to your base. Its antimicrobial and antiseptic qualities are beneficial for acne.
        • For Aging Skin: Add lavender or frankincense oil to your base for added anti-aging benefits.

      This gentle, natural oil cleanser is easy to customize and helps effectively remove impurities while nourishing your skin.

      How to Use Your Oil Cleanser
      Take about a teaspoon of the oil cleanser and gently massage it over your face using soft, circular motions. This helps lift dirt, makeup, and excess sebum from the skin. Rinse thoroughly with warm water to remove impurities and prepare your skin for the next step.

      Foam Cleansing

      The foam cleansing step purifies the skin on a deeper level, removing any leftover residue from oil cleansing and deeply cleansing the pores. This step creates a fresh, clean canvas for the remaining skincare routine. You can use a store-bought foaming cleanser or make a homemade version to suit your skin’s needs.

      DIY Foaming Face Wash

      Homemade Rice Water Face Wash Recipe

      You’ll Need:

      • Soap dispenser
      • Measuring cup
      • Spoon
      • 2/3 cup rice water
      • 1/3 cup liquid Castile soap
      • 2-3 drops of a mild essential oil (like jojoba, lavender, or moringa oil)

      Instructions:

      1. Mix Ingredients:
        Start by measuring 2/3 cup of rice water and 1/3 cup of liquid Castile soap. Pour both into a measuring cup.
      2. Add Essential Oil:
        Add 2-3 drops of your preferred mild essential oil for added nourishment and fragrance.
      3. Transfer to Dispenser:
        Pour the mixture into a soap dispenser, then gently swirl the bottle before each use to keep the ingredients well-mixed.

      Rice water is a staple in Korean skincare, celebrated for its high concentration of vitamins and minerals, which help to brighten, hydrate, and smooth the skin — an essential for achieving that luminous glass-skin look.

      How to Make Rice Water:
      To make rice water, rinse 1/2 cup of uncooked rice, then soak it in 2-3 cups of water for 30 minutes. Strain the water and store it for use as a toner, hair rinse, or as an ingredient in your skincare routine.

      STEP 2 : EXFOLIATE

      The second step in the Korean glass skin routine is exfoliation, which is essential for sloughing away dead skin cells and unclogging pores, revealing a youthful glow and radiant complexion. Exfoliating not only enhances your skin’s appearance but also improves its ability to absorb other skincare products and removes excess oil trapped in pores.

      You can choose between physical exfoliation (like scrubs or brushes) or chemical exfoliation. While traditional physical exfoliation has been a staple, the beauty world is increasingly shifting toward chemical exfoliants for their effectiveness and gentleness. Personally, I’ve become a huge fan of chemical exfoliation, but I still cherish the nostalgic appeal of coffee and orange scrubs. The delightful aromas are simply irresistible!

      Check out the recipes mentioned below—I’m sure you’ll love trying them! Just a couple of reminders: avoid exfoliating daily and concentrate on the areas that need it most. For more information on exfoliation and the latest trends, read here.

      DIY Exfoliators

      • Orange Peel Powder Face Scrub
      • Sugar Citrus Scrub
      • Gram flour and yogurt face scrub

        STEP 3: TONNER

        A toner is essential for balancing your skin’s pH levels and softening its texture. It refreshes your complexion, absorbs excess oil, minimizes the appearance of pores, and helps prevent them from clogging, which can lead to acne. Additionally, a good toner tightens the skin, enhancing its overall appearance. When choosing a toner, look for one that is both hydrating and clarifying to ensure it prepares your skin effectively for the next step in your skincare routine.

        DIY Rice Water Toner

        Rice water toner is excellent for brightening your skin and tightening large pores. Here’s how to make a DIY rice toner, which is an integral step in achieving Korean glass skin at home. When applying the toner, avoid rubbing or pulling at your skin; instead, lightly dab it on and allow it to absorb fully. Remember, do not rinse off any products after this step!

        STEP 4: ESSENCE

        Essence is a vital step in achieving Korean glass skin at home. If you’re unfamiliar with the term, think of essence as a lighter, less concentrated version of serum with a water-like consistency. It enhances the skin’s cellular renewal process, boosting elasticity and firmness while promoting a brighter complexion. Essences deliver essential moisture and target specific skin concerns, such as pigmentation and rosacea. This step has long been a cornerstone of the Korean glass skin routine, and it has recently gained worldwide popularity.

        DIY Rice Essence

        DIY Rice Water Essence Recipe

        Ingredients:

        • 1/2 tsp rice water
        • 1 tbsp glycerin
        • 3 tbsp rose water
        • 8-10 drops of jojoba oil or rose essential oil
        • Aloe vera gel (enough to achieve a slightly runny consistency)

        Instructions:

        1. Combine Ingredients:
          In a mixing bowl, add 1/2 tsp of rice water, 1 tbsp of glycerin, and 3 tbsp of rose water.
        2. Add Oil:
          Include 8-10 drops of jojoba oil or rose essential oil for added nourishment.
        3. Incorporate Aloe Vera:
          Gradually add aloe vera gel until the mixture reaches a slightly runny consistency.
        4. Blend Well:
          Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
        5. Store:
          Transfer the mixture into a pump bottle for easy application.

        This homemade essence will help hydrate your skin while targeting specific concerns, making it a fantastic addition to your Korean glass skin routine!

        STEP 5: SERUM/ AMPOULE

        An ampoule is essentially the Korean counterpart of a serum, offering a more concentrated formulation loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. Unlike essences, which are lighter, serums penetrate deeper into the skin, providing targeted treatment rather than just surface-level hydration. Serums nourish the skin, boost collagen production, and address various issues such as aging, uneven skin tone, and pigmentation. You can use ampoules both day and night; however, I personally prefer applying them at night. This allows your skin more time to absorb all the beneficial vitamins and antioxidants, enhancing their effectiveness.

        DIY Facial Serum Recipe

        Ingredients:

        • 2 tbsp rice
        • 1 cup milk
        • 4 tsp aloe vera gel
        • 2 tsp vitamin E oil
        • 2-3 drops of your favorite essential oil (optional)

        Instructions:

        1. Soak the Rice:
          Soak 2 tbsp of rice in water for 5-6 hours.
        2. Cook the Rice:
          After soaking, transfer the rice to a pan and add 1 cup of milk. Simmer on low heat until the rice is fully cooked.
        3. Strain the Liquid:
          Once cooked, strain the liquid from the rice into a separate bowl. This liquid will serve as the base for your serum.
        4. Combine Ingredients:
          Add 4 tsp of aloe vera gel, 2 tsp of vitamin E oil, and 2-3 drops of essential oil (if using) to the strained liquid.
        5. Mix Well:
          Blend all the ingredients together until well combined. You can adjust the quantity of aloe vera gel for your desired consistency.
        6. Store:
          Transfer the serum into a clean bottle or pump container for easy application.

        This DIY facial serum will provide hydration and nourishment, helping to enhance your skin’s overall health!

        Choose the essential oil according to your skin type

        • Normal- Lavender, Frankincense oil
        • Dry – Lavender, Sandalwood, Jasmine
        • Oily- Tea – tree, Lavender, Peppermint, rosemary

        STEP 6: SHEET MASKS – CERTAINLY A CRUCIAL STEP IN THE KOREAN GLASS SKICARE ROUTINE

        Sheet masks have become incredibly popular among Koreans and are current favorites in the beauty community. They pamper the skin, leaving it smooth and glowing. These masks are designed to hold onto nourishing ingredients, allowing them to penetrate deeper into the skin layers for optimal absorption. For the best results, you can use sheet masks two to three times a week.

        Available in a wide variety, you can easily purchase them or even make your own at home for a personalized touch!

        DIY Sheet Mask Recipe

        Materials Needed:

        • Baby wipes, cotton muslin cloth, or tissue paper
        • Scissors

        Ingredients:

        • Rice water (cooked or plain)
        • Argan oil
        • Honey
        • Essential oil of your choice (select based on your skin type)

        Instructions:

        1. Prepare the Sheet Mask Base:
        • If using baby wipes or a cloth, cut holes in the fabric for the eyes, nose, and mouth to create a mask shape. If using tissue paper, you can layer a few sheets together.
        1. Make the Mask Solution:
        • In a bowl, combine rice water with a few drops of argan oil, a teaspoon of honey, and your chosen essential oil.
        1. Soak the Mask:
        • Dip the prepared sheet mask into the solution, ensuring it is fully soaked.
        1. Apply the Mask:
        • Gently place the soaked mask on your face, smoothing it out to ensure it adheres well.
        1. Relax and Enjoy:
        • Leave the mask on for about 10 minutes to allow your skin to absorb the nourishing ingredients.
        1. Remove and Follow Up:
        • After 10 minutes, remove the mask and gently pat any remaining essence into your skin. Follow up with your regular skincare routine for best results.

        Enjoy your DIY sheet mask and the glow it brings to your skin!

        STEP 7: EYE CREAM

        Eye cream is an essential product to incorporate into your skincare routine as you approach your thirties. It plays a vital role in addressing concerns like wrinkles, dark circles, and fine lines that often arise with age. You can’t achieve that coveted glass skin look if you have dark circles, puffiness, or bags under your eyes.

        Starting early with an eye cream can help prevent these issues. To apply, simply dab a small amount of eye cream onto your fingertip and gently pat it around the eye area. Avoid tugging or pulling on the delicate skin; a light touch is key to ensuring the product absorbs without causing damage.

        DIY Eye Cream

        You can create an effective and affordable eye cream using coconut oil and vitamin E oil. Here’s how to make it:

        1. Melt Coconut Oil: Start by gently melting some coconut oil until it becomes liquid.
        2. Mix in Vitamin E: Stir in about 10 drops of vitamin E oil to the melted coconut oil.
        3. Store: Transfer the mixture into a small container for easy use.

        Benefits:

        • Coconut Oil: Known for its ability to lighten dark circles, coconut oil deeply moisturizes the skin and helps reduce wrinkles by supporting collagen strength. It also prevents puffiness and bags under the eyes.
        • Vitamin E: This powerful antioxidant combats free radicals that contribute to aging, helping to maintain youthful skin.

        For best results, gently massage the eye cream around your eye area to promote absorption and further lighten dark circles.

        STEP 8: MOISTURIZER

        A moisturizer effectively locks in moisture, replenishing your skin’s hydration levels and providing a radiant glow. Simply take a small amount in your palm and gently massage it into your face to boost blood circulation.

        DIY Rice Cream

        Ingredients:

        • 2 tsp rice
        • 1 cup water
        • 1 tsp milk
        • 2 tsp honey
        • 4 tsp aloe vera gel
        • Vitamin E oil (to taste)
        • Essential oil of your choice (e.g., frankincense oil)

        Instructions:

        1. Cook the Rice: In a pot, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil and let it cook until the rice is soft. Allow some of the water to evaporate and let it cool for about 15 minutes.
        2. Blend: Transfer the cooked rice (along with any remaining water) into a blender. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency.
        3. Mix in Other Ingredients: Add the milk, honey, aloe vera gel, and a few drops of Vitamin E oil to the blended rice. If you’re using an essential oil, add that as well.
        4. Adjust Consistency: Blend again until all ingredients are well combined. If the mixture is too runny, you can add more aloe vera gel to achieve a slightly thick, gel-like consistency.
        5. Store: Transfer the rice cream into a clean container. Use it as a moisturizer to enjoy the benefits of rice for your skin!

        This DIY rice cream is packed with nutrients and hydration, making it a great addition to your skincare routine. Enjoy the glow!

        STEP 9: SLEEPING MASK – IMPORTANT STEP TO ACHIEVE KOREAN GLASS SKIN

        Thanks to K-Beauty for introducing us to this essential mask! A sleeping mask is a crucial part of the Korean skincare routine, setting it apart from regular face masks. Unlike traditional masks, you can apply a sleeping mask and leave it on overnight. You have the option to skip this step, but if you follow this nighttime routine, incorporating it can enhance your results.

        DIY Sleeping Mask:
        Mix a teaspoon of aloe vera gel with a few drops of essential oil. Gently dab it on your face to seal in all the hard work you’ve done!

        CONCLUSION

        In conclusion, achieving the coveted Korean glass skin look requires dedication to a well-structured skincare routine that focuses on hydration, nourishment, and protection. By following the ultimate guide, which includes essential steps like double cleansing, exfoliation, toning, applying serums, and moisturizing, you can create a radiant, dewy complexion that reflects light beautifully. Incorporating products rich in hydrating ingredients and antioxidants, along with regular use of a sleeping mask, will help seal in moisture and enhance your skin’s natural glow. With patience and consistency, you’ll be on your way to achieving that flawless glass skin that is the hallmark of K-Beauty. Embrace this journey to luminous skin, and enjoy the confidence that comes with it!