Casual style can be comfortable, laidback and effortlessly stylish. As men get older and more settled in their careers, casual clothing often becomes the dominant style. However, casual should not mean sloppy or dated. With some thought, men over 50 can put together casual outfits that are sharp, cool and confident. Here are some tips for casual fashion for men over 50.
Key Elements Of Casual Style For Mature Men
Fit Is Crucial
Well-fitting clothing flatters the body at any age. Take the time to find casual shirts, pants and jackets that are tailored to your current frame. Baggy, boxy or overly tight clothing will make you look older and dowdier. Opt for straight leg jeans over skinny cuts, and make sure casual button downs aren't straining over your stomach or billowing around your waist.
Stick To Classic Pieces
Trendy fast fashion pieces will date your look. Build your casual wardrobe around versatile classics like dark wash jeans, chinos, polo shirts, oxford button downs, leather jackets and suede loafers. Solid colors or subtle patterns are easiest to mix and match.
Add Texture With Knits
Crew neck sweaters, cardigans and knit pullovers make great layered pieces for casual outfits. Textured fabrics like cable knit or merino wool add visual interest. Neutral colors are endlessly versatile.
Outerwear Elevates A Look
The right jacket can pull a casual outfit together. A leather bomber or moto jacket is timeless. For something dressier, try a tailored wool blazer. For colder weather, quilted jackets, peacoats and down puffer vests are stylish essentials.
Skip The Dad Sneakers
Chunky white sneakers are in, but they can look like orthopedic shoes on mature men. Instead, try clean leather sneakers or casual suede chukkas. For a business casual office, consider loafers or Chelsea boots.
Show Your Personality
Small accessories let you express your personality. Try a patterned pocket square, wrist cuff or an interesting watch. Retro glasses, a felt hat or a cool pair of sunglasses also help you stand out while keeping your look casual.
Keep It Clean And Crisp
Casual clothing should not look sloppy. Iron shirts, keep colors bright and replace items that pill, fade or show excessive wear and tear. Pay attention to details like clean nails and neat hair. Good hygiene and grooming help elevate a relaxed look.
Casual Outfit Ideas For Men Over 50
Weekend Wear
- Dark wash jeans
- White oxford shirt
- Tan suede bomber jacket
- Brown leather boots
- Aviator sunglasses
This look is laidback and comfortable but still put together. The bomber jacket and boot upgrade basic jeans and a shirt. Sunglasses add flair.
Running Errands
- Navy polo shirt
- Khaki chinos
- Grey merino cardigan
- Canvas sneakers
- Baseball cap
The polo and chinos are classics, while the merino cardigan adds textured warmth. Clean sneakers and a ball cap keep this look casual but not sloppy.
Dinner With Friends
- Light blue button down
- Black blazer
- Dark rinse jeans
- Black leather loafers
- Stainless steel watch
Dress up your normal weekend outfit by swapping in a sharp blazer instead of a jacket. Loafers elevate the look from just hanging out to a casual dinner.
Working From A Coffee Shop
- Heathered crew neck sweater
- Straight leg jeans
- Suede chukka boots
- Laptop bag or backpack
- Retro glasses
Show off your personal style with trendy glasses while keeping the rest of the look simple. The crew neck sweater is office-appropriate but still relaxed.
Running Errands
- White linen button down
- Navy shorts
- Leather slip-on sneakers
- Cotton bucket hat
- Cloth face mask
Beat the heat in breathable linen and shorts. Leather sneakers add polish. The bucket hat and face mask show off personality.
Common Casual Fashion Mistakes To Avoid
Don't Wear Baggy Clothes
Ill-fitting clothing that hides your frame just looks sloppy. Take the time to find well-tailored casual wear in natural fibers that keep you cool.
Don't Wear Teen Styles
Avoid skinny jeans, flashy sneakers or overly trendy pieces. They end up dating your look. Stick to classic casual styles in high quality fabrics.
Skip The Graphic Tees
Lettering, logos or graphics on t-shirts look immature. Choose casual button downs, polos and knits instead for a mature look.
Don't Forget The Details
Little things like stains, wrinkles, sagging fabrics and scuffed shoes make casual outfits look bad. Take care of your clothes.
Don't Dress Too Young
Certain items like baseball caps, hoodies and cargo shorts can age you in the wrong direction if you're over 50. Maintain your sophistication.
FAQ
What are the key elements of casual style for men over 50?
Some key elements include well-fitting clothes, classic pieces like oxford shirts and chinos, textured knits for layering, stylish outerwear, clean leather sneakers or suede boots, and thoughtful accessories like sunglasses, a wrist cuff or a nice watch.
What casual fashion mistakes should mature men avoid?
Avoid baggy, sloppy or ill-fitting clothes. Skip overly trendy fast fashion pieces, graphic t-shirts and anything that looks like teen apparel. Don't forget details like stains, wrinkles and poorly maintained shoes.
What colors work best for casual menswear after 50?
Stick to neutral, earthy tones like black, grey, navy, tan, brown, olive green, and denim. Bursts of color can work well in accessories or layers. Pastels and bright colors are harder to pull off.
What casual pieces can help men over 50 transition their wardrobe?
Start by swapping t-shirts for polos and casual button downs. Add a knit pullover or cardigan. Wear dark, straight leg jeans instead of baggy dad jeans. Add suede loafers or boots. A blazer or leather jacket polishes the look.
Should older men avoid shorts?
Shorts can work in a casual summer outfit. Look for a longer inseam and a tailored fit. Neutral colors like tan, navy and grey are most versatile. Pair with leather loafers and a lightweight button down or polo for a mature look.
Conclusion
Casual fashion for men over 50 is all about fit, function and just the right details. Build your wardrobe around versatile classics that flatter your current body, comfort and lifestyle. Add tailored pieces, natural textures and thoughtful accessories to enhance your inherent sophistication and confidence. With some attention to detail, mature men can look stylish, youthful and put-together in casual clothing.
