Baby Boomer Men's Clothing

Styles in Baby Boomer Men’s Clothing

It’s only recently in cultural history where there is any kind of divide between what a man wears in his 20s or 30s vs. what he wears in his 60s. There may have been some variations, but overall, once someone was an adult, his wardrobe was pretty much established for the rest of his life. While a Boomer may have worn torn jeans, sandals and T-shirts in his 20s, he has probably sported a different look for the last few decades.

Which isn’t to say that he needs to abandon jeans and T-shirts. Many men still feel best in this classic outfit, although the changes in their bodies can make them feel uncertain about how good they might look. There are some companies that recognize that men still want to wear jeans in their late middle age, and design jeans accordingly.

Other men prefer a more stylish, decidedly adult look, and want to mix collared shirts with khakis or dark trousers, or even light untailored suits. Whether you’re still working or into early retirement, you can still look sharp. Classic designers have smart casual wear available for the older, discerning man.

Age Is How You Feel

Although the youth culture may suggest that Baby Boomer men’s clothing consists entirely of golf wear, you should dress according to your comfort and how you feel. If you’re fit and active and a vital part of the modern world, there’s no reason not to dress in a way that reflects that. Clint Eastwood certainly isn’t going to abandon his jeans any time soon. True, if you wear those jeans buckled at the thighs with a backwards baseball cap, you’ll look ridiculous. But, hitting 60 doesn’t mean it’s time for a pastel polo shirt tucked into pleated trousers, either.

The best thing you can do for your look is to maintain your own style but adapt it with some modern touches. You want to err on the side of sleek and sophisticated, no matter what your body type is. If you like T-shirts, opt for plainer shirts, rather than those sporting fussy graphics or text, for example.

Less Is More

You may not be the guy who wears designer clothes, but look to the classic pieces in a designer line, such as Armani or Paul Smith, to help you choose wardrobe staples. You don’t need a large wardrobe, but should focus instead on buying a few good pieces every season or so to mix with your other standards.

If you’ve maintained great shoulders, a really well-cut casual or leather jacket will show them off in style. If you prefer collared shirts, opt for the always classy long-sleeved shirt (you can roll up the sleeves if need be), and choose a high-quality fabric, like brushed cotton, linen or silk. Even your T-shirts should be good quality. Look for shirts in organic fibers like cotton or hemp. You’ve worked hard, you deserve to wear better clothes.

Shopping for Baby Boomer Men’s Clothing

Many shoppers find it frustrating to look for the basics in Baby Boomer men's clothing because so many shops seem geared towards a younger clientele. With loud music and assistants that don’t understand variations in body type, it can be hard to shop for quality pieces.

However, if you are only buying a few things every season, you can treat yourself to a better shopping experience in a high-end department store or men’s specialty boutique. The shop assistants will be able to select pieces that best complement your physique so the clothes you get will be clothes you wear.