For Men: Dressing Your Way Out Of Mid-Life Crisis

          Last year, at about this time, I was busy shopping for my early mid-life crisis. And, as a result, I ended up with my fair share of younger clothing styles. I purchased a couple pearl-buttoned, vintage-style shirts with a hip, western flair. Of course, the destroyed denim jeans followed, along with a few graphic t-shirts and leather bracelets too. Yes, I even considered purchasing a dog tag or two to accentuate the messy hair look and five o’clock shadow.

          And now, we fast-forward to today, one in which things are different. The crisis clothes are still here, but tucked away for those occasional days. They have taken a back seat to a still casual, but slightly more mature wardrobe. In all of my reading and even talking with friends, it seems that casual wear choices are often difficult. Well, let me say that finding the right casual choices can be difficult for some. Unlike business attire, men’s casual wear offers so many choices.

          When it comes to jeans, you will be faced with terms such as straight-leg, skinny, boot-leg, low-rise, mid-rise, baggy, shrink-to-fit and more. Once you are totally confused, then it is time to consider washes. If you are approaching a mid-life crisis, then by all means, take a look at them all. However, if you are looking for simplicity, let me make it simple. If you are planning to wear boots, you might consider boot-cut.  If not, straight-leg will work fine. I prefer blue denim and shy away from any other colors. As for the washes (fading) or destroyed look, I say let them happen through natural wear.

          The next item you’ll need is a shirt. Again, you will face many choices from pin-point, spread and button-down collars, fitted, traditional sleeves and so on. Collars are subjective, but please do not wear a colored shirt with a white collar and white cuffs. Likewise, French-cut sleeves only work with business suits. These days, you can never go wrong with an Oxford shirt, neatly tucked with a brown belt to match the shoes. My latest preferences include a basic pin stripe, gingham or windowpane pattern. Wear a new, pressed, white t-shirt underneath and you will be ready to go.  Going to dinner? Why not throw on a simple, linen sport jacket? Once dinner is over, take it off.

          And now, we move on to the shoes. Once in awhile, I suppose, tennis shoes are ok if running errands or whenever a long walk may be involved. However, sandals and flip-flops on men should be outlawed. Boots can add a touch of style, but use caution with colors or the exotic styles that look like they could walk themselves. A nice pair of brown loafers will add just the right touch. Tasseled shoes get mixed reviews. I once overheard someone say you can never trust a man who wears tassels. I am not sure about that one.

          As of today, my only accessory of choice is a watch. If you have an expensive one you like, by all means wear it. I too have one that I like to bring out once in awhile. On most occasions, however, I stick to a simple, big-faced, leather-band style, which I have several of. Here is the real challenge for you. If you can find a brown, leather band watch that matches the belt and shoes – then you my friend, will look divine.