15+ Things Men Over 50 Should Wear But Don't

Henley shirts are a great option alternative to a basic T-shirt, but are unfortunately not worn by many men who are over the age of 50. They have buttons at the collar, giving them a slightly more sophisticated look while still being comfortable, relaxed, and masculine. 

More traditional older men may find the idea of wearing things like sweatpants and athleisure around the home to be inappropriate for their age. However, this certainly isn't the case, and they are missing out on the chance to experience a whole new level of comfort during their downtime. 

Accessories aren't just for younger guys! A high-quality belt, bag, or tie can work really well for men over the age of 50, too.  In fact, well-chosen accessories can elevate an outfit and add a touch of sophistication, demonstrating that style really has no age. 

Many men are hesitant to wear color, and this is often especially true for middle aged men, who may take fewer risks when it comes to fashion. However, wearing bright and colorful clothes not only looks great, it can also lift your mood and instill a sense of confidence and energy. 

Many older men can't bothered with the hassle of shopping around for jeans that fit them really well, not trying them on in-store or leaving their significant other to buy them. However, finding well-fitting jeans is definitely worth it - a good pair can look so much better and be much more comfortable. 

Many men over 50 just keep wearing clothes they've had for decades, or rely on their wives or family members to do their clothes shopping for them. This often means that they wear things that don't really represent their own personal style, or that they don't even like very much. 

We're not talking about changing your underwear everyday here (although that should definitely be a priority), but rather throwing out any old, holey, and raggedy pieces. Many men over the age of 50 have underwear that has been in the drawers for decades - it's probably time to invest in some nice new quality pieces instead. 

If you prefer a more casual and rugged appearance, flannel shirts are the way to go. They're perfect for the colder months and look smart without being overly formal, and you can find them with plenty of colorway options and styles to fit your preferences. 

Given the importance of regular movement as we age, it's a good idea for men over the age of 50 to have a wearable fitness device. This doesn't have to be the most modern, advanced, or expensive model on the market, but a simple fitness tracker that will help you ensure you are keeping active. 

We've already mentioned that most men over 50 should wear more color, but there is a caveat here. Wearing colors that actually complement one another is important for creating a polished and cohesive look. One of the easiest ways to do this is to wear shades of the same color, for example, pairing a light blue shirt with navy trousers. 

Many older men associate cardigans with being old fashioned and "grandpa style". However, these classic garments can actually look really stylish and modern when worn with the right fit and paired with contemporary pieces. Opt for a slim or tailored cardigan in a neutral color to elevate your look. 

Of course, not many people have the time and resources to only buy tailored clothes. But having a suit in your wardrobe that has been specifically designed to fit your body and style preferences is a luxury and a joy that all men over the age of 50 should experience. 

Many middle-aged men see jewelry as being an exclusively female thing, but it can actually be a great way to express personal style,. and there are plenty of options that are not feminine. If metals aren't your thing, you could opt for pieces made from natural materials such as leather, wood, or stone. 

While there is nothing wrong with the old tried and tested jeans and T-shirt combo, a polo shirt can be more a refined and versatile alternative that makes a casual look a bit more elegant. You can also buy them in a range of colors and patterns to suit your style and preferences. 

While most men over the age of 50 are probably aware of the importance of protecting their skin from the sun, they view wearing sunscreen as too much of a hassle and often don't bother at all. However, making a habit out of applying it before they head out helps reduce the risk of skin cancer and signs of aging. 

While we are obviously not suggesting that men over 50 can't wear trendy shoes, the reality is that having comfortable everyday footwear becomes more important as we age. Finding shoes that provide proper support and cushioning is essential for maintaining mobility and overall foot health. 

Many men over the age of 50 can get in a bit of a style rut, and their choice of outerwear often reflects this. While practicality is important, having a smarter option in your wardrobe - such as a pea or trench coat - alongside waterproof and thermal options will give you more versatility. 

A scarf is a great investment, but many older men see it as an unnecessary and even old fashioned item. Not only will a high-quality woolen scarf look stylish and refined on a chilly winter's day, it also helps to reduce your risk of cold-related illness. 

Flip flops and sandals tend to be the summer shoe of choice for many men over middle age. Espadrilles are a great alternative. They are breathable, so good for the warmer weather, comfortable, and give any summer outfit choice a more intentional and sophisticated look. 

If you want to look smart but don't like the fit or style of dress trousers, dark wash jeans make for a great alternative. They give a relaxed but polished look and can be styled with a good variety of sweaters, button-down shirts, T-shirts, and blazers. 

This classic accessory gives a wonderfully refined look, but unfortunately not many middle-aged men have this item to hand in their wardrobe. A silk pocket square adds a pop of color and/or playfulness to a blazer, while still being in keeping with a sophisticated aesthetic.

Many men over the age of 50 tend to get a bit nonchalant when it comes to their health and wellbeing, so it's not surprising that prescription sunglasses aren't a priority. However, investing in a pair of quality prescription sunglasses is crucial for your eye health. 

Many men develop the habit of sleeping in a T-shirt and boxers - sometimes even the same ones they've been wearing the entire day. A much cozier and refined option is to buy some pajamas - nowadays there are so many comfy but stylish sets on the market. 

Investing in a few great quality woolen sweaters will not only ensure you are kept warm throughout the chillier months, but also gives your look an instant sense of sophistication. Cashmere and merino are two of the best choices, as they are incredibly soft and stylish. 

This is (hopefully) a pretty obvious one, but many older guys skip the deodorant thinking it’s unnecessary or that they don’t sweat as much anymore. However, good hygiene and self-care is important at any age - after all, no one wants the embarrassment of having bad body odor at work or during social gatherings.

If you tend to live in sneakers, why not consider investing in a good pair of leather Chelsea boots? They're sleek and stylish, and also really versatile - you can pair them with casual outfits like jeans and a T-shirt or more formal looks such as chinos and a button-down shirt. 

Whether it's a baseball cap, a Panama hat or a straw hat, wearing a hat on sunny days is important for men over 50. It helps prevent sunstroke and provides protection from harmful UV rays - especially if you're getting a little thin up top - but despite this, many opt to go without one instead. 

Belts are a seriously underrated accessory when it comes to men over 50. They not only help to keep your trousers securely in place, but they can also add an immediate touch of style, and make even the simplest of outfits look more polished and put together. 

This is another thing that more traditional older guys may assume is only for women. However, a good moisturizer is essential for maintaining healthy skin, regardless of gender. As men age, their skin can become drier and less elastic, so daily moisturizing helps hydrate the skin, making it more comfortable and even reducing fine lines. 

While many of us rely on our cell phones to give us the time nowadays, having a watch  is still a valuable accessory that combines practicality with style. It can be a great statement piece that complements most outfits and subtly elevates your entire look. 

This small, simple accessory can add a serious touch of class to any formal outfit. You can opt for unique, colorful creations or classic, minimalist designs for a more elegant vibe. The fun of wearing cufflinks is that they allow for personal expression in a more subtle way. 

While many men over the age of 50 have prescription glasses, they often forget to carry them with them when they leave the house, or just have them shut away in a drawer while they struggle to read signs and menus or even enjoy their favorite books. 

Any outfit will look instantly better if it is in a color palette that suits your skin tone and perhaps highlights your features such as your eyes. For example, if you have warm undertones, earthy shades like olive green, mustard yellow, and warm browns can look great, while those with cool undertones look better in navy, charcoal, and emerald. 

Many men over the age of 50 associate corduroy pants with geography teachers and the 1970s. While they do have a vintage vibe, they can look really cool when styled correctly, and they also have the added bonus of providing warmth in the cooler months. 

If you live in a warmer area or are looking for the perfect vacation staple, look no further than a linen shirt. This simple garment is a great mix of refined and relaxed, and look great on men of all ages, making it an essential addition to your wardrobe. 

Many men over the age of 50 may balk at the idea of carrying a lip balm around with them. However, this is far from just a cosmetic concern. Dry, cracked lips are not only a bit of an unappealing visual, they can also be very sore and even lead to infections. 

As we age, we often start to become more conservative with our clothing choices, perhaps due to a fear of standing out or being seen as dressing too 'young'. Unsurprisingly, this takes a lot of the joy out of dressing. So, it's important to remember that you can wear whatever you like, regardless of age. 

Many men over a certain age believe that V-neck sweaters are designed solely for younger men who live at the gym. However, these versatile sweaters can be flattering on all ages, if a little thought is put into the overall look. Layering one over a T-shirt or button-up is a great place to start. 

Sadly, many older men miss out on having the luxury of a cozy bath robe as they think of it as something feminine. It doesn't have to be a silk Hugh Hefner number here (unless you want one, of course), but rather a comfortable and practical garment you can throw on after a shower or when lounging around the house. 

Many older men despise shopping, so generally want to get in and out of stores as quickly as possible. However, by taking the time to do a bit of research and investing in higher-quality, more durable pieces that you really love, you can avoid the need for frequent shopping trips.