My first sandwich was made by my girlfriend; “Mary” when I was three years old. She was maybe one year older. I think she might have been five, when I was four.
She used to sneak me into her house, and she would hide me in her bedroom, and make me a ketchup sandwich. Yupper. I was in awe. This little girl knew how to cook!
So She kept me happy, fed and we would romp about in her bedroom on her bed. I guess looking back at that time, I was quite the stud, eh?
Funny.
Today…
Poison Dart Frogs Killer
Believe Us Media is spreading another Skripal affair like story to again tell its audience to hate Russia (archived):
Aleksei A. Navalny, the Russian opposition leader who died in prison two years ago, was most likely poisoned by a toxin found in a South American frog, the Foreign Ministries of Britain, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands said on Saturday in a joint statement.
Samples taken from Mr. Navalny’s body showed the presence of a toxic substance, epibatidine, the statement said.
“Epibatidine is a toxin found in poison dart frogs in South America. It is not found naturally in Russia,” the statement said.
Well informed sources contacted Moon of Alabama to provide it with an exclusive picture of the FSB killer suspected of committing the crime.
bigger
🐱【Chongqing: Hundreds of Rescued Stray Cats “Work” at New Cat-Themed Park】
Jan 13th, 2026 – At Chongqing’s Firefly Harbor Cat Theme Park, rescued stray cats frolic and interact with visitors, quickly making the newly opened 30,000-square-meter venue a top local check-in spot.
Hundreds of once-abandoned or injured cats “take up posts” here, “earning” cat treats through interactions. The park centers on stray cat rescue, providing professional medical care and vaccinations before opening the cats up to visitor engagement. Blending public adoption with cultural tourism, it operates as an open adoption platform, achieving self-sustainability through regulated operations to support the cats.
We Were NOT Ready For CASABLANCA (1942) First Time Watching | Movie Reaction
How to Dress Well Over 50: Style Tips for Older Men
At one time, a man’s age earned him respect. Nowadays, society isn’t kind to men over 50, whether it’s in the workforce or the dating game. One of the biggest tellers of a man’s age isn’t even in his skin or hair – it’s often down to his choice of older men’s clothing items.
But, exceptions are made for dignified older gentlemen who dress well for their age.
In today’s article, I’m sharing with you five style tips on how a man over 50 should dress if he wants to look sharp and impress without wearing old men’s clothes. You will understand:
Older Man Clothing Tip #1: Don’t Dress Like A Young Man
I see this in a lot of guys getting out of the military. They enlisted when they were 18 and find themselves still wearing the same clothes several decades later.
A classic mistake is you try to correct this by reading fashion blogs or magazines for advice. Be very careful because a lot of tips are aimed towards a younger, fashion-forward crowd.
Their styles play on youthful looks. I’m talking about undone shirt buttons, ripped jeans and so on. These might look cool on 22-year-old male models but don’t wear well on an older man. Ruffled hair and an untucked shirt will make you look like you’ve been woken up by a fire alarm.
However, that doesn’t mean you should go out and invest in a wardrobe full of old men’s clothes! No man needs to wear sweatpants and a sweater vest, regardless of age!
So how should a man over 50 dress? Is it time to switch to high-rise sweatpants and orthopedic loafers? No. But you shouldn’t be sporting ripped jeans with the cuffs rolled up to show off your ankle tattoo, either.
Older Man Clothing Tip #2: Find Brands That Suit You
Don’t be afraid to change brand loyalties as you age, especially once you hit the point where your body is changing in size and posture. Clothing that fits well when you were younger may stop working as you age.
Do you have a couple of quality, reliable go-to brands for wardrobe basics like dress shirts and slacks? If not, swing by an upper-end menswear store and ask for some recommendations. Learn from the experienced staff. How have they adapted their own sense of style over the years?
Try on the same item of clothing (a dress shirt, for example) in a few different brands and see which ones work for you. What suits your body best? You don’t have to actually buy anything, just find quality men’s clothing brands that work well for you.
It’s not just about following trends; it’s about selecting brands that offer quality, age-appropriate styles, and a great fit. Opt for labels that understand the nuances of mature fashion, providing timeless pieces that exude confidence.
Embrace classic designs and prioritize comfort without sacrificing style. Look for brands that prioritize durability and craftsmanship, ensuring your wardrobe reflects the seasoned elegance that comes with age.
When it’s time to replace something in your wardrobe, you now know exactly where to go.
Older Man Clothing Tip #3: Be Aware of Societal Expectations
A hard truth in life you have probably discovered for yourself is people do judge a book by its cover. People have preconceived notions of how a man over 50 should dress and what ‘older men’s clothing’ means.
Whether you’re in the dating game or looking for a promotion at work, these stereotypes can negatively affect your life and force you towards wearing old men’s clothes that make you look plain and stuffy.
The good news? If you understand what makes an older man attractive you can dress to control how people perceive you. Use stereotypes to your advantage!
Imagine this: If you don’t take care of your appearance, it’s easy for an older man with gray hair to look like a ‘senior citizen’. As far as the world is concerned you are shuffling along to the early bird special at Denny’s…forgotten and inconsequential.
On the other hand, look sharp with great clothing and the same gray hairs make women think of leadership, wisdom and maturity.
Think about Hugh Hefner in his old age – he makes sure to wear clothes that demand respect, and everyone from journalists to the Playboy Bunnies buy into it.
Older Man Clothing Tip #4: Own the Latest Technology
This falls under the category of old man’s clothing accessories… but it’s still important. Make sure you’ve got a good smartphone, observe basic phone etiquette and let people see you using it with confidence.
Other small consumer electronics like tablets are a great choice too. The point is to make sure people notice you access and competently use the digital world in the same way younger men do.
This visually signals to younger men (and women) you’re a part of the same community. It also makes clear you aren’t lacking in technology skills which are critical to today’s working world.
You don’t even really have to use these devices much in most cases. Unless you’re applying for a social media job or a similar position, just having an up-to-date phone is enough to convince people you’re still with the times. Whether you’re actually checking Twitter every five minutes or not doesn’t matter, so long as people know you could if you wanted to.
While staying technologically current is essential, older men should view gadgets as tools, not status symbols. Embrace the latest tech for its functional benefits rather than showcasing it for validation.
Invest in devices that enhance efficiency and connectivity, contributing to a modern lifestyle without overshadowing personal substance. Striking a balance ensures relevance without succumbing to superficial trends, allowing mature individuals to navigate the digital landscape with authenticity and purpose.
BONUS Older Man Clothing Tip: How To Dress Over 50 – Experiment With Classics
To avoid looking stuffy, you want to develop your own personal style of older men’s clothing habits. That means adding some unusual elements and experimenting a little. The trick is to do it like an elegant older gentleman.
When young men want to stand out they generally turn to counter-culture symbols: long or spiked hairstyles, tattoos, ripped clothing and so on.
For older men, look toward classic but underused style elements instead.
Throw on a fedora or a Panama straw hat, swap a polo for a Guayabera, wear a light plaid suit as social wear on the weekends – clothing that nods toward classic mens’ style…but you don’t see men wearing these days.
There’s a fine line to walk between old-school elegance and looking plain old-fashioned. If you’re careful with your choices though and opt for subtle touches then it’s clear your look is a deliberate style rather than a wardrobe that hasn’t changed in 50 years. You can stand out in the crowd without looking like you’re trying to disguise your age.
Embrace sophistication through well-tailored suits, quality fabrics, and muted palettes, transcending fleeting fashion fads. Update wardrobes with modern interpretations of traditional pieces, incorporating contemporary cuts and subtle details.
The goal is an ageless, refined look that exudes confidence without relying on outdated stereotypes. By blending the best of both worlds, older men can cultivate a distinguished wardrobe that stands the test of time while staying effortlessly stylish and relevant in the ever-evolving realm of men’s fashion.
Col 29 – 541 Sir Whiskerton and the Case of the Seam That Sings
A Tale of Minor Keys, Unfinished Tales, and the Comfort in Between
Ah, dear reader. You may recall the seam in the barn wall—the one that sighed with a C-major welcome and led to the corridors of quiet wonder. That seam, it seems, had a sister. A quieter sibling. A seam that didn’t announce itself with the warmth of sunlight, but with the gentle, thoughtful melancholy of twilight. This is the story of that seam, and the lonely, beautiful place it guarded.
Life on the farm had settled back into its comfortable rhythm after the adventure of the Noclipped Nap. The blue sheep grazed in the lavender, their glow a calming nightlight for the barn. Ditto, however, found his ears twitching toward the familiar wall more often. He’d press his small head against the wood, listening. Usually, there was just the deep, warm hum of the place he now thought of as the Welcome Hall.
But one afternoon, as a soft rain pattered on the roof and the world was painted in shades of grey and green, he heard something new.
It was a hum, yes. But where the first seam’s song was a comforting C-major chord—solid, resolved, like a hug—this one was different. It was in C-minor. It carried a note of gentle longing, a beautiful, unfinished sadness that resonated in Ditto’s small chest. It wasn’t frightening. It was… lonely. And for a creature whose whole existence was based on connection and echo, loneliness was a feeling he understood all too well.
He didn’t call for Sir Whiskerton. This felt like a secret meant for him. Gathering his courage, the little kitten placed a paw on the wall where the minor-key hum was strongest. The wood yielded as softly as a whispered secret, and a new seam opened—this one edged in the faint, silvery light of a hidden moon.
Ditto stepped through.
He did not emerge into the barn, nor into the sunny Welcome Hall. He found himself in a vast, impossibly quiet library.
But it was unlike any library you or I have seen. The shelves were not made of oak but of a wood that seemed to breathe, their grains shifting like slow rivers. They stretched into a soft, misty distance. And they were filled not with books, but with… possibilities.
He padded closer. On one shelf, a crystal vial swirled with the mist of a story that had never found its ending—a pirate’s tale that stopped at “and then the storm…”. On another, a small, felt hat sat forlornly, waiting for the head of a character who had never been drawn. There were half-written letters in unfamiliar scripts, single musical notes that hung in the air but refused to find a melody, and the faint, ghostly scent of pies that had never been baked.
This was a library of unfinished stories, forgotten dreams, and kindly abandoned ideas.
And it was alive. When Ditto turned his back, he’d hear the softest rustle, like pages turning in a dream. He’d spin around to see that the shelves had quietly, politely rearranged themselves. The pirate’s storm vial now sat beside a lonely knight’s gauntlet. The felt hat was perched atop a stack of blank parchment. It wasn’t chaos; it was a slow, endless attempt at matching. A quiet, desperate hope that these lost things might find their missing halves if they were just placed in the right company.
The profound, gentle melancholy of the place settled over Ditto. He wasn’t scared. He was… seen. This was a place for echoes that never found a source, for questions that hung in the air. He, who repeated everything, felt a kinship with these things that had never been completed.
It was then he saw it. On the floor, in the aisle between the Breathing Shelves and a stack of Unpainted Portraits, lay a single, perfect blue button.
It was not lost. It was placed. It sat in a tiny pool of silvery light from a window that wasn’t there, waiting.
The moral of our story, dear reader, begins here: There is a profound belonging to be found not only in completion, but in the state of ‘in-between.’ The unfinished, the lost, the lonely—they, too, have a sanctuary. And sometimes, tenderness is simply recognizing a thing that is waiting, and acknowledging it.
Ditto approached the button. He didn’t pick it up. He knew, in the way one knows things in such liminal places, that it wasn’t his to take. It belonged here, in this quiet museum of almost-was. It was a marker. A sign that said, “Something was meant to be here. It didn’t arrive. But its space is honored.”
He sat before it, tucking his paws underneath him. He listened to the hum of the place, the C-minor song of beautiful, unfinished things. He didn’t echo it. He just… kept it company.
He didn’t know how long he sat there. Time, in the library, was as unfinished as the stories. But eventually, he felt a familiar, grounding presence. He turned.
Sir Whiskerton stood at the end of the aisle, having found the new, minor-key seam. He wasn’t alarmed. He observed the shifting shelves, the crystalline stories, the lonely artifacts with an expression of deep, quiet reverence. His gaze finally landed on Ditto, sitting sentinel before the blue button.
He walked over, his footsteps silent on the floor that felt like settled dust. He sat beside Ditto, their shoulders touching.
“You found the quieter layer,” Sir Whiskerton said, his voice softer than the rustle of the shelves. “The Annex of Almost.”
“Almost,” Ditto echoed, the word feeling right at home here.
Sir Whiskerton looked at the button, then at the shelves endlessly rearranging in hope. “They’re not lost, you know. They’re… resting. Some stories aren’t meant to be finished. Some buttons are never sewn on. Their beauty is in their potential. In the ‘what could have been.’ It is a different kind of truth.”
He looked down at Ditto. “And you kept it company. You didn’t try to fix it, or finish it. You just sat with its quietness. That, little one, is a rare and gentle magic.”
Together, they sat in the humming, minor-key silence, honoring the unfinished. After a time that felt both endless and a single breath, Sir Whiskerton rose. “The rain has stopped. The barn will be wondering where its echo has gone.”
Ditto stood. He gave one last look to the blue button, a silent promise to remember. Then, he followed Sir Whiskerton back through the silvery seam.
A Happy Ending
Back in the barn, the world was sharp and clear and complete—the smell of rain on dry earth, the sound of Gertrude’s definitive honk, the solid feel of hay underfoot. But Ditto carried the quiet library with him.
He began to notice the farm’s own “almosts” and treated them with new reverence. He’d sit by Chef Remy’s “Almost-Perfect Soufflé” (which had collapsed) as if it were a fallen hero. He’d pause by a spiderweb torn by the wind, admiring its beautiful, unfinished lace.
He’d even occasionally lead a lost and lonely item—a single mismatched sock from the Disneyland of Debris, a dull pencil stub—to a quiet, respectful spot in the barn, as if giving it a place in his own, personal Annex of Almost.
Sir Whiskerton watched this new, gentle habit with immense pride. The farm, he realized, wasn’t just a place of solved mysteries and happy endings. It was also a sanctuary for the incomplete, the yearning, the things in C-minor. And in Ditto, it had found its gentlest custodian.
And so, dear reader, we leave our farm with a deeper, quieter kind of magic. A knowing that behind the hum of everyday life, there is another hum—a minor-key song for all the beautiful, unfinished things. And in that song, too, there is a perfect, waiting kind of belonging.
The End.
Navy In Panic: The US Can No Longer Keep Up With China
Liver Casserole
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound liver
- All-purpose flour
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 soup can milk or water
- 1 can French fried onion rings
Instructions
- Cut liver into 1 1/2 x 2 inch strips. Flour, season and brown.
- Mix remaining ingredients and place in a casserole.
- Place liver on top.
- Bake uncovered at 350 degrees F for 1 hour or more.
Solitary
Written in response to: “Center your story around a person who believes they’re the last human on Earth.“
Melissa Taylor
Contemporary Drama Science Fiction
It’s funny, but I didn’t break down properly until I realized I’d never get a manicure again. It was such a small thing. But it struck me hard and fast, like a bullet train. Or maybe just like a bullet. Before that, I’d felt numb and dumbstruck. I was sleeping through most days, believing maybe everything would reset. I’d set food and water out for the boys, but they’d mostly lay at my side, only ever leaving to snack or let themselves in and out through the dog door.
Now, we’re working on getting a new routine. One that exists in this little world, all our own. I smell like shit and the dogs love it. I don’t know how to get fresh water without it running straight through my pipes. So, I grab a baby wipe from under the sink and take a hobo shower. Making sure to focus on the most odorously offensive areas. I’m saving the jugs of water for drinking. It’s too precious to use otherwise. It’s what keeps us alive. It’s interesting, because I do kind of want to die, but I’m not interested in aiding in the process. My instincts to survive remain stubbornly and wholly intact.
A baby on the ovulation strip box stares up at me accusingly from under the bathroom sink as I “wash” my pits. I can’t bear looking at its fat cheeks and happy little grin. I chuck the whole box into the trash, but almost immediately pull it back out of the bin. Do I dare to hope?
Before I can think too much about it, I slide open the cardboard siding and touch the pink, crinkly wrapping of the singular pregnancy test included. The word hope thumps along in my head to the rhythm of my heart. Hope for what? I think. Am I truly hoping to bring a new life into this world? In spite of myself I know the answer is an undeniable yes. Yes I am.
Maybe I’ll have a part of Daniel with me after all. Opening the sliding glass door to the backyard, I step outside into the chilly air and squat down to pee on the stick. A flash of embarrassment creeps through me, heating all of my cheeks. Self-consciousness plagues my every action, even with no witnesses. It’s ridiculous enough to make me laugh.
Then I place the cap back on the stick and I wait. The time spent waiting on the result feels like hours. I stare off into space for a while, thinking about my family and friends. Katie’s birthday would’ve been tomorrow. I don’t particularly like Katie, but still. I’d give almost anything to see her face now.
I jolt at the sound of the dogs barking inside the house. How much time has passed? ‘Boys!’ I yell. ‘Quiet!’ But they continue on, their piercing barks working on my nerves. And then I realize, there’s someone at the door. A confounding concoction of fear and excitement races through my blood. Who on Earth could be knocking at the door? It almost doesn’t matter. There’s someone here! Before heading back inside, I chance a glance at the small plastic stick. It disappointingly, but not surprisingly reads ‘negative’ in a plain black font. Optimism floods the air anyway. There is someone here.
Pictures
New Female VP Fired Me, Then Demanded My Logistics System. My Response: Not Today
22 Little Known Men’s Traits That Attract Women
If you Google attracting women…
It’s full of:
- what to wear…
- muscles to build…
- pick up lines to use…
While physical attraction is important for first impressions…
a HUGE key component is missing.
So what does it take?
Attracting women is a little more complex…
You have to stimulate their mind.
Make them FEEL a certain way.
Combine a strong first impression physically & emotionally…
and you might have a chance to win her over.
FYI – all of this will backfire if you’re approaching them for the sole purpose of seduction.
The motive behind your behavior is just as important as the actual behavior.
The most attractive way to make them feel something is with confidence, authenticity, and integrity.
This article is going to cover some subtle signals that will help you (physically and emotionally) become more attractive.
Attractive Man Trait 1. Wear Red
Red is a powerful color. It’s been used as a status symbol for men since Roman times. It’s also more sexually appealing than other colors.
In fact, this is a cross-cultural kind of thing. A study was made in 2010 involving women from different countries – Germany, England, China and the US. They were asked to rate the attractiveness of different men’s faces that were photographed in black and white.
Two variables were digitally altered per picture: (1) the color of the background and (2) the color of the t-shirt.
The results?
The ladies found a guy more attractive whenever there was a red background/shirt than whenever there was neither.
So believe it or not, red does increase your marketability. Wear it the right way (just one piece – even just a pocket square) and you can amp up your style and your game.
Attractive Man Trait 2. Look More Mature
If you’re worried about looking older – here’s a reality check. Psychologists have studied about young adult women who are financially independent and as it turns out… old is gold.
Those ladies fall prey to what’s known as the “George Clooney Effect.” Fhionna Moore of the University of Dundee explains this further, saying self-sufficient women are drawn to maturity. Remember our biology – women have menopause while men are fertile for much longer.
They like a man who looks “experienced” with life. They think he’ll make a good provider – but it’s not that they’re being needy. They see him as someone who’s not going to fool around. A guy who’s wise and ready for commitment.
If you learn the ways of an older gentleman, you’ll realize that “old” here doesn’t mean dull or boring – but classy.
Attractive Man Trait 3. Don’t Buy Generics Or Counterfeits
When you buy a counterfeit it sends the message that you settle for second best.
It also shows that you care more about people’s opinion of you than your perception of yourself.
Think about it. If you’re wearing a fake Gucci suit and it’s noticeable – it sends the message that you care more about people thinking you own the real thing. You’re worried more about your status than about being your true authentic self.
At the end of the day, it comes down to one thing: Confidence in yourself. A man who is authentic won’t try and portray someone he isn’t. He’ll buy what he can afford, and own it.
If he isn’t where he wants to be in life he’ll own that too. At the end of the day, he’ll be more attractive because he isn’t fake.
Attractive Man Trait 4. Dress Like A Dandy
The art of dandyism dates back to the 18th century. Famous men like George Bryan “Beau” Brummell were known to live and breathe it – taking as much as 5 hours a day just to dress perfectly!
You won’t spend that much time on your style… but you’ll want to apply the principles. These days it’s less about over-the-top dressing and more about expressing yourself.
A modern dandy’s clothes are tailored amazingly well. He minimizes ornaments. The color, texture and all the small details are carefully picked out. He’s quite artistic – and that’s why he outshines other well-dressed men.
Who are the dandy guys of today? You’ll find many on Instagram and some of them going viral on newsfeeds. Take inspiration from them – there’s a reason they have loads of followers.
Attractive Man Trait 5. Own Your Oddness
As handsome as you are, you should also embrace your odd features. Our society considers them “imperfections” but really… who doesn’t have them? What IS perfect in this world?
So learn to see what’s odd about you and harness it in a way that works. Maybe your hair is a little weird – why not grow it out and explore a different style? Or if you need eyeglasses – why not try fun glasses? Or if you’re naturally thin – how about skinny clothes?
Whatever your imperfection is – gap between teeth, big eyebrows etc. – own it. People are used to seeing things so close to perfect that nothing seems genuine anymore. Odd makes you look more human. That’s your appeal.
Attractive Man Trait 6. Eat “Tanning” Food
If you’re the type who likes to spray tan or spend hours under the sun… here’s a better alternative. Switch up your diet to food that’s rich in carotenoids. You know what they say – you are what you eat.
Carotenoids are compounds which give your skin a natural glowing tan through regular intake. Some great sources include:
- Butternut Squash
- Cantaloupe Melon
- Carrots
- Dark Leafy Greens
- Dried Apricots
- Sweet Potato
- Sweet Red Peppers
A study that came out in The Quarterly Journal of Experimental Psychology showed that 86% of people found a carotenoid tan more attractive than a pale face.
It also compared faces that had both carotenoid tan and sun tan versions – and more preferred the carotenoid type. So high-carotenoid foods aren’t just good for your health. They’re great for your skin.
Attractive Man Trait 7. Forearms and Vascularity
This one might surprise you.
One thing that signals leanness is a pair of toned arms that show off some veins. Those lines indicate less fat and more muscle. If yours are visible – you’re physically on the right track.
Most guys at the gym want to get buff – but it’s not what gets the ladies. The real determining factor is leanness.
Being lean is about a low percentage of body fat – ideally at 12%. It’s most attractive to women according to a study in the Proceedings of the Royal Society of Biological Sciences.
The women in the study rated young men of all body sizes and the results were clear. Low body fat – not masculine features – was linked to high levels of attractiveness, testosterone, and strong immune systems. Lean was more impressive than bulky.
Attractive Man Trait 8. Sleep Well
Your goal is to get eight hours of shut-eye a day. How can your body recharge and repair itself if you stay awake? And don’t think lack of sleep is just a brain issue – it’s also unattractive.
A study was performed at the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden where people judged human faces based on two different photos. The subject was either sleep-deprived or well-rested (but the observers didn’t know this).
The findings were consistent – sleep-deprived faces appeared less attractive AND less healthy. Red eyes were also seen as major turn-offs. So you better rest up. There’s a reason we call it beauty sleep.
Attractive Man Trait 9. Be Mindful
Outside of the physical components – attracting women comes down to sparking an emotional response.
For men – it’s simple. If we’re attracted to a woman, we pursue a physical relationship. If we feel respected we pursue an emotional relationship.
For women – attraction more than just physical. Their mind needs to be attracted to your mind (AKA you have to win them over emotionally).
A study was made in Australia on factors that predict initial romantic attraction. University students participated in a speed-dating session where ultimately, the women were more attracted to men with a greater mindful disposition. Looks weren’t as big of a factor.
So what exactly does this mean? It’s all about your ability to pay attention, be insightful and engage with women well. It’s how you take the wheel and steer the conversation so that it never gets boring or awkward. That’s how the ladies will enjoy your company.
Attractive Man Trait 10. Make Fun Of Yourself
Making women laugh is an important thing. But did you know that self-deprecating humor actually works? Evidently yes – that’s the appeal of Hugh Grant.
Researchers discuss this kind of humor in the article “Dissing Oneself: The Sexual Attractiveness of Self-Deprecating Humor.” They say it makes a man more desirable – as it exposes his flaws and spins them in a positive way. Remember how we should own our imperfections? That’s the correlation.
Having a good sense of humor about yourself is how you make women see you differently. They’ll laugh, feel more comfortable and less pressured to look or act a certain way.
And when they realize that – eureka! You’re the guy who can make a relationship fun and less “prim and proper.” You’re somebody they can be themselves around. That makes you a great catch.
Attractive Man Trait 11. The Little Things
I thought wearing a baseball cap backward was sloppy and best left to frat bros. It seems I might be in the minority though. While I was doing my research, I saw women say they really like a man who does this. Maybe women like the relaxed, devil-may-care look a backward baseball cap can give you.
How about rolling up your sleeves? You might think this is practical when you’re doing dirty work or chores but this is apparently a very popular look women love to see on their man.
It’s not hard to see why women mentioned this. You’re showing some skin, they can see the veins in your arms while you do your thing, it’s a good look.
“BACKWARDS BALL CAPS! Any time a man slides that bill to the back, he instantly gets hotter!” – jedicajohnsonjblove
Attractive Man Trait 12. Putting On A Tie…Then Undoing It
However you look at it, women seem to love seeing a man wearing a tie. The humble necktie can instantly pull together a smart-casual outfit and make a suit look sexier.
Going black tie? Wearing a bowtie undone might seem like a cliché to you and me, but it still seems to work wonders on women. You still look smart but it makes you more approachable and relaxed, you’re in your element.
“An untied bow tie. That floors me.” – ElineK
Attractive Man Trait 13. Wearing Boots
After doing this research, I recommend each one of you pick up a pair of boots. GQ asked 200 women what the most attractive shoes men could wear for a first date would be and 77% said boots.
This makes sense to me. You’re associating yourself with the tough-as-nails workers and cowboys of legend who created the modern world over the last two centuries. You might not be a tough man hard at work every day but it couldn’t hurt to look like you’re ready to fell a tree at a moment’s notice.
Attractive Man Trait 14. Leveraging The Power Of Accessories
Gentlemen, if you’re not wearing a belt and watch you need to get on it because women will notice. They instantly improve any outfit. Get into the habit of putting a belt and watch on first thing in the morning as part of your daily routine. Before you know it, you won’t even realize you’re doing it.
If you wear contact lenses, try a pair of glasses. The women have spoken and I’m 100% with them because the science backs it up. The human eye loves symmetry, and that’s what glasses give you. They make you objectively better-looking.
“Ooh, when a man wears glasses. Yas mama!” – sarahas1516
Simply put, ladies love a well-put-together man.
Attractive Man Trait 15. Controlling Your Car
Another quality you might need to be a woman to fully understand! Driving your car with one hand or just two fingers on the steering wheel was mentioned as something women love to see their men do. Also, driving with one elbow resting on your open window. Handling a car with ease gives you a relaxed presence women want to be around.
Lastly, parallel parking will impress your guy friends but is also a great trick you should be showing off to the women in your life.
Ultimately, what these come down to is showing you are in control of the vehicle. Whoever is with you in the car can feel safe.
“When my husband smoothly pulls our truck into a tight spot…Oooooooooooh.”
– daschap
Attractive Man Trait 16. Proving You’re Thinking Of Her
Here’s another thing you can do without even leaving the car: reverse with your hand on her headrest. You’re reminding the woman you have in the passenger seat she is on your mind.
Even small gestures like putting your hand on the small of your wife’s back or giving her the ‘soft eyes’ across a table in a restaurant will mean the world. It just lets her know you’re thinking of her.
As one woman put it, “I’ll catch my boyfriend looking at me with that softer look, and I’ll say, teasingly, ‘You’re staring!’ and he’ll say, ‘Gazing!’ and look away.”
Attractive Man Trait 17. Showing Off Your Brainpower
Next up, women love a guy who’s smart but without coming off as arrogant.
How do you show you’re intelligent without bragging about it? It doesn’t have to be complicated, even holding or reading a book in public increases your attractiveness.
Did you know there’s an entire Instagram account dedicated to good-looking guys reading books on the subway? Just saying…
Attractive Man Trait 18. Caring For Yourself And Others
“I LOVE watching my boyfriend cook,” one woman wrote in a Reddit thread. Women love it when a guy shows he can sustain himself and others. A home-cooked meal made from scratch, served in an organized and clean house, is indisputable evidence. After all, how many women want to date a man who’s actually looking for a free cook/cleaner?
Of course, the guys who get guaranteed full credit are the men who are good with kids. It should be no surprise a woman’s maternal instincts makes her more interested in someone who can take care of children, even if the relationship is just beginning.
Attractive Man Trait 19. Wearing A Well-Fitted Shirt
Think about it, guys love when a woman wears a form-fitting dress. This is the equivalent for men.
If you have an athletic, V-shaped build, a tight t-shirt is perfect. Black or white is best, women say. Those of you who are larger or with a pear-shaped body, opt for a casual button-down shirt. Go here for a complete guide to men’s body shapes and what fits best.
“A good muscular packed chest that looks amazing under a shirt.” – luvcrgirl
Attractive Man Trait 20. Running Your Fingers Through Your Hair
In one thread I saw, a user wrote about when men “run their fingers through their hair. Especially when they’re doing it subconsciously, like while thinking”.
I think this shows the value in seeing what women themselves really think. Sometimes it really can be the things you or I wouldn’t think twice about that drive a woman crazy. You probably do this at least once a day without even realizing it.
This research was really interesting for me. Some of these only take a second to actually do but it’s the thought and attention to detail that count, which clearly comes out in the findings here.
Looking relaxed and approachable while still being strong and in control seems to be what unites all of these. That said, some of these (I’m looking at you, backward baseball cap!) were really unexpected and I had a lot of fun putting together this list and video.
Attractive Man Trait 21. Stay In Touch
In today’s fast-paced society, showing someone you’re thinking of them with a Facebook message or text is a great way to increase your attractiveness. Relationship coaching expert Corey Lane writes that texting helps facilitate and underscore the mystery of romance for women.
Follow these simple guidelines and you will have a great chance of increasing your attractiveness with texting:
- Keep it short – long messages can be overwhelming.
- Think before you message – letters on a screen can be misinterpreted without body language, tone of voice etc so take your time and be clear, use correct spelling.
- Use emojis – there are a great way to show your emotions and add some fun to what is otherwise plain letters on a screen.
- Timing is important – find a balance between seeming anxious and coming across as a jerk who is not finding time for someone who should feel important.
Attractive Man Trait 21. Shave Your Head
Do you have a bald spot or thinning hair? This is for you. A 2012 study in ‘Social Psychological and Personality Science’ had people rate photos of men with hair and with digitally shaved heads.
Participants rated the bald men as being more dominant, confident, masculine, taller, you name it. In fact, this effect still showed up when the experimenters used no photos, just verbal descriptions.
Attractive Man Trait Bonus: Smell Nice
Maybe fragrance isn’t a big deal to you. In fact, a lot of men don’t bother wearing it. But remember that smell is our strongest sense. It connects to our memory which triggers some sort of emotion – whether it’s good or bad.
Try taking some time to learn about fragrance and the different types available. Understand the basics and soon enough, you’ll find a product that gives you the perfect scent. It’ll help you become the most attractive guy around.
Cops Unlock Babysitter’s Phone, Uncover Horrifying Secret | True Crime Documentary
Loaded Barbecue Baked Potato Casserole
Barbecue sauce provides a flavorful addition to this delicious potato casserole that’s made using Old El Paso® green chiles – perfect for dinner.
Prep: 25 min | Total Time: 1 hr 20 min | Yield: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 (24 ounce) bag frozen mashed potatoes
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded pepper Jack cheese
- 4 ounces (half of 8 ounce package) 1/3-less-fat cream cheese (Neufchâtel), cut into cubes
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (12 ounces)
- 1 (8 ounce) container reduced-fat sour cream
- 1 (4.5 ounce) can Old El Paso® chopped green chiles, drained
- 3 cups shredded barbecue pork or beef
- 3/4 cup barbecue sauce
- Chopped fresh parsley, if desired
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 13 x 9 x 2 inch (3 quart) glass baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a 10 inch skillet, cook bacon over medium high heat for 8 to 10 minutes or until crisp; drain on paper towels, reserving 2 tablespoons drippings. Crumble bacon; set aside.
- In large microwavable bowl, stir together mashed potatoes, reserved bacon drippings, the milk, pepper Jack cheese, cream cheese, pepper and 2 cups of the Cheddar cheese.
- Microwave uncovered on HIGH for 4 minutes.
- Stir in sour cream and chiles until well blended.
- Spoon potato mixture into baking dish.
- Sprinkle with bacon and remaining 1 cup Cheddar cheese.
- Spoon pork evenly over cheese.
- Drizzle barbecue sauce over pork.
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes or until bubbly.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with parsley.
Nutrition
Per serving: Calories 550, Total Fat 31g (Saturated Fat 17g), Sodium 1230mg Total Carbohydrate 33g (Dietary Fiber 2 1/2g), Protein 34g
% Daily Value*: Vitamin A 0%; Vitamin C 0%; Calcium 0%; Iron 0%
Exchanges: 1 Starch; 1 Other Carbohydrate; 2 High-Fat Meat; 1 Fat; Carbohydrate Choices: 2
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Attribution
Recipe and photo used with permission from: Betty Crocker
Child Predator’s Van Leads to Horrifying Discovery
https://youtu.be/CsZBFNHZZ5U
The Last on Earth
Written in response to: “Center your story around a person who believes they’re the last human on Earth.“
John Steckley
Adventure Science Fiction Drama
The other human was a boy, maybe between 10 to 12 years old. He was very thin, no doubt from lack of food. When the boy caught a glimpse of me, his first words were “I’m not stealing, mister.” My reply was “Well, neither am I young man. We are both just avoiding starvation, a good thing for us to do. The owner of this place probably died years ago. You cannot trespass when a building has no owner.
Then I asked the boy, “Do you have any family? “No, I was out in the backyard when a fireball hit our house, killing my parents and my brother and two sisters. I haven’t spoken to anyone since. You are the first.”
“I can relate. Do you have a place to live in now?”
“No sir, I’m outside all of the time, when I’m not in here looking for food.
“I have a house just outside of the former town. You can stay with me. It feels good to speak with another human being, not just to myself and the most human-like of the potatoes in my potato patch.”
“Do you cook the potatoes?”
“Yes, they would be a little rough raw.”
“How do you do that with no electricity?”
“I have an outdoor fireplace.”
“Wow, I haven’t had cooked food in months.”
“What is your name?”
“Darryl”
“And what is yours?
“Joe.”
We went to my place, me leading the way, Darryl following behind me. Every once in a while I would turn around to see whether he still existed, and was not a figment of my hopeful and often deluded imagination.
It took a few days, but we both began to feel comfort in the presence of another human being. I did not have to talk to the potatoes as often as I had done before. Once I actually apologized to my best potato friend for my recent silence in our interaction.
There Was a Rumbling
Then one day there was a rumbling different from when the great Martian collision struck. Over the days that passed, it got louder and more widespread. It did not seem to be that of another crashing of remnant pieces of Mars, but I was beginning to guess that it was initiated deep in the planet, a long delayed reaction from the crash that took place in months past..
I did not share with Darryl my fears of what may be happening. But as it turned out, I did not have to. A new sound emerged in the sky one morning. I could not say what day of the week it was. The sound did not seem natural, more like some kind of engine. Fortunately, I own a pair of binoculars, and it was not long before I saw the source. It was a man-made vehicle of some sort that was cruising slowly in our area.
Another good fortune was that I had fireworks. I told Darryl about them and about what I had seen. We took them out of the basement, lit each one and I threw them as high as I could so that the occupants of the spaceship could detect our presence. At first there was no reaction, but finally it went into a deep gradual dive, and landed in the potato patch.
We were overjoyed when we saw humans emerge, and they seemed just as happy as we were in seeing unexpected humans. We ran towards them, and there were hugs all around. They had not seen anyone else, neither did the occupants of their sister ships. Before I entered into the spaceship, I gathered some of my clothes, my writing about being ‘the last man on earth’, and, on my way to the ship, I picked up my favourite potato. I did not want to leave without it. We had been together through my whole experience.
I wondered whether I was the last man on earth, and Darryl the last boy. A year later, we still held that position.
How To Dress For Your Age (20s, 30s, 40s, 50s+)
Shakespeare talked about “the seven ages of man.” Happily, we guys only need to dress for one of these ages at a time!
There’s a certain dignity to dressing your age… and there are consequences to violating this rule.
A 45-year-old overweight man with graying hair wearing board shorts and a graphic tee oftentimes looks like a joke. But so does the college student attending lectures in a $3000 bespoke 3-piece suit.
In both cases, neither man is dressing his age. Although it’s possible to make these outfits work they just look better when key factors like environment, career, message, and age are taken into account.
In this article, we explain how should a man dress for his age. We are going to cover:
- Young men (18-29)
- Casual dress for the young man
- Business dress for the young man
- How should a young man dress like a professional?
- Professional men (30-54)
- Casual dress for the professional man
- Business dress for the professional man
- How do you know if a suit fits?
- Mature men (55+)
- Casual dress for the mature man
- Business dress for the mature man
How A Young Man Should Dress (Age 18-29)
A full head of ungrayed hair and a body that stays in shape with ease goes a long way in fashion. Take it from an older guy; enjoy these while you have them.
Apart from the physical advantages, the “young” look is defined by experimentation, variety, and a touch of aggressiveness as far as bucking the traditional look goes.
However, knowing when to experiment and when to fall back on timeless, reliable options becomes more and more important as the young man grows. A college boy of 19 is far less likely to need a sharp-looking suit and the practice to wear it confidently than a professional man of 32.
Casual dress for the young man
Young men can usually wear just about any style as long as they’re willing to really own it. That means no half-measures — funky, bright-colored trousers mean a mix-and-match look in the rest of the outfit; don’t pair them with plain black dress shoes and a pressed white dress shirt. You’ll confuse people.
#1 Pick one theme
When you put an outfit together, you want to aim for a look that can be described in one word. (This is good advice for all ages, but especially helpful for young men, whose experimental wardrobes tend to be more varied). Do you look at outfits with a ‘preppy’ or ‘grunge’ theme? How about a ‘hipster’ look? If you’re looking like a little from each all at once, you probably need to change some items around.
#2 Vary your look
Style for 20 year old guys should be about experimenting, figuring out the kind of image you want for yourself. If you’re a college student who wears khakis and a polo shirt every day, I highly encourage you to go outside your comfort zone. Play around a little. I’ve never met a stylish young man who didn’t have a wide variety of tops and trousers (to say nothing of accessories) in their closet.
Varying the look from day to day keeps yourself from being pigeonholed. Dress sharp one day in a tucked-in dress shirt, slacks, and a dark blazer, then switch to bright corduroys and a henley under a denim jacket the next. And so on.
#3 Accessorize
What’s the difference between a guy in jeans and a hoodie versus a guy in jeans and a hoodie with a leather bracelet?
Quite a bit, actually.
Having an eye-catching accessory somewhere in an outfit makes it clear to people that you have self-control and you’re wearing a deliberate ‘look’ rather than some mismatched pieces grabbed at random out of your closet.
This is especially important for casual outfits, which can look like classic youthful sloppiness if you’re not careful. Sharp-looking accessories mean that even if the older generation doesn’t like your style, they must concede that it is a style.
How should a young man dress casually?
- Dark, well-fitted blue jeans, the always-acceptable casual staple. Go ahead and invest a little extra to get a pair that fits well and is a nice, deep indigo rather than light blue.
- A light-colored blazer and a dark-colored blazer, nice and casual.
- Some brightly colored pieces, anything from T-shirts to trousers and jackets. Try not to wear them all in the same outfit, but use them to liven up an otherwise conservative outfit.
- At least one pair of plain khakis or slacks and a dress shirt that you can wear when you go to church with Grandma (or whatever other casual but conservative events come up in your life).
- Belts. Wearing trousers with belt loops and no belt just looks sloppy.
- A couple of pairs of funky shoes. Colored canvas sneakers, decorated leather brogues, and saddle shoes, espadrilles, moccasins — whatever you feel like. But some options that aren’t sneakers or plain black/brown men’s dress shoes are key.
- Some brightly-colored or patterned socks never hurt either, while we’re on the subject of feet.
Business dress for the young man
As you get out of school and into the business world, the need for conservative trousers, dress shirts, and blazers increases. At least one actual suit becomes something of a necessity as well, for interviews, if nothing else.
In many cases, these are unfamiliar articles of clothing — a good fit and attention to the basics are key to looking like a grown man rather than a schoolboy in his dad’s old suit.
#1 Good fit above all else
Ready-to-wear suits are made deliberately big. This lets stores sell them to the maximum number of men but is bad news for younger, slimmer men. A loose, baggy suit jacket paired with a young face is the easiest way to look like a kid in borrowed clothes.
Whenever possible, shop for jackets and trousers at businesses that offer in-house adjustments. If necessary, take them to a tailor as well. The fit should be closer than an older man’s. Don’t wear anything so tight it pinches, but avoid any loose cloth hanging off the body when the garment is properly buttoned.
There’s such a thing as a business-appropriate dress suit with a distinct pattern or unusual features, but on a young man, it’s likely to look more like an error made in ignorance than a conscious style choice.
Stick to basic styles like the two-button, single-breasted, notch-lapel business suit in a dark solid. Leave the three-piece, padded-shoulder, peaked-lapel, pinstriped suits for men who have the gray hairs to carry them well.
#2 Err on the side of overdressing
A young man who wears a suit and tie when everyone else is wearing sports jackets, and open collars looks like he’s striving to impress. A young man who wears a blazer and khakis when everyone else is in suits looks like a kid who can’t be taken seriously.
When navigating the nuances of business attire, projecting an image of formality and respect through well-chosen, polished attire sends a powerful message about one’s commitment and professionalism.
In a world where first impressions carry substantial weight, a suit that leans towards the more formal side communicates a sense of attention to detail and a readiness to tackle challenges.
While the workplace dress code may vary, choosing a slightly more formal option ensures adaptability and conveys a seriousness of purpose that can enhance one’s professional image.
#3 KISS – Keep it simple, silly!
You’re always going to be better off looking like you try too hard than looking like you don’t try enough. When in doubt, wear the suit. You can always take your necktie off and tuck it in a pocket if you find yourself badly overdressed. If you show up underdressed, there’s no remedy.
Simplicity is timeless. In a world often crowded with distractions, a simple and refined wardrobe speaks volumes. Opting for classic pieces, such as a well-fitted solid-colored suit, a crisp white shirt, and a tasteful tie, can convey professionalism without unnecessary complexity.
The elegance of simplicity lies in its versatility; it seamlessly transitions from meetings to networking events with ease. A minimalist approach not only streamlines the decision-making process but also exudes confidence and sophistication.
A well-maintained, uncomplicated wardrobe also reflects an understanding of the subtle power of understatement, allowing one’s skills and capabilities to take center stage in the professional arena. In embracing simplicity, a young man cultivates a polished image that effortlessly navigates the complexities of the business world.
How should a young man dress like a professional?
Make sure you incorporate the following into your wardrobe:
- At least one suit. A simple, single-breasted model in charcoal gray or navy blue is best, and the fit should be adjusted to keep it close to the body.
- A navy blue blazer. It goes with everything and is always respectable. It can also be paired with unusual shirts or trousers for a funkier look in the evening.
- A plain white dress shirt, spread, or point collar (not button-down). For the most formal business settings.
- At least a few collared dress shirts, lightly colored or patterned.
- A minimum of three neckties, including a few conservative ones in dark colors with modest or no patterning.
- A pair of plain, shined black oxford balmoral shoes. A second pair of brown leather oxfords or bluchers is also worth having for more casual business wear.
- Medium gray wool slacks. They’re the navy blazer of the lower body — versatile and functional with almost any look. And, of course, they can indeed be paired with a navy blazer.
- A plain black leather belt and a plain brown leather belt. Your leathers should always match, and a ratty belt ruins the fanciest suit.
How Should A Professional Man Dress (Men Age 30-54)
It doesn’t happen overnight but in every man’s life, there is a transition point. You go from being a man who’s trying different careers, interviewing often, and experimenting with life to someone who’s got a path pretty well figured out and plans to keep working at it. Fashion changes accordingly.
Don’t break out the walker and stairlift just yet, though. Being a professional man doesn’t mean it’s time for high-waisted stretch pants and retirement home brochures. What it does mean is a transition from more aggressive younger men’s styles that say “look at me!” to the restrained elegance of a man who knows what he likes and feels confident about his place in the world.
Instead of “look at me!” a professional man’s clothing should say “I know you’re looking at me.” It’s all about confidence of assumption.
A little honesty also goes a long way. When your waistline starts to expand and your hairline starts to recede, change your style accordingly. Trying to wear the clothes you wore fifty pounds and a different hair color ago is unlikely to flatter you.
Casual dress for the professional man
Days and evenings off aren’t entirely free time for most working men. You never know who you’re going to run into, and appearances still matter. Stocking the closet with comfortable casual clothes that actually look good — rather than relying on work jeans and T-shirts — keeps you prepared without having to work at it.
#1 Raise the standard
Training yourself to dress well is easy: it requires you to only have good clothing.
Easy, right?
Most men’s default wardrobes can use a raise in standards. A pair of jeans or two is fine (especially dark, fitted jeans), but you should have just as many cotton slacks and just as many wool trousers beyond that. A variety of colors keeps you varied as well as dressy.
Shirts should get the same treatment. Once you’re past 30 or so, there’s really no room for T-shirts outside of exercise and physical labor. It’s time to show some maturity. The majority of your casual shirts should have collars. Your stepping-outside outfits should almost always be something that would look good if you threw a sports jacket on over them.
And speaking of that, a professional man’s closet needs casual jackets. Several of them. A tapered shape is going to flatter your body, and by stepping up the formality a notch, you’re showing everyone that you can afford to dress well for pleasure as well as business.
#2 Moderate your colors
Neon orange corduroys are a young man’s indulgence. As you age and settle a bit in life you’ll want to tone it down a notch.
That doesn’t mean you should stop wearing a variety of colors. In fact, a professional’s wardrobe can still benefit from some of the best color combinations for men (it keeps regular workwear from looking uniform), but the colors shouldn’t be the focus of the outfit.
Casual clothing doesn’t need to stick to the blues and grays of business wear. Explore shirts, jackets, and even trousers in subdued but rich colors like burgundy and forest green.
Or, for a more muted look, try pastels like coral pink and sea-foam green. Either of these color palettes turns a potentially basic chinos-and-collared-shirt look into something unique.
#3 Layer up
A complex life deserves a complex look. Don’t be shy of visual ‘noise’ in your casual outfits.
Sports jackets over collared shirts are a good default outfit, but hardly the sum of a professional’s options. Invest in turtlenecks, cardigans, henleys, vests, overcoats, and other pieces that add complexity to your upper body.
Texture also adds visual depth that gives a simple outfit a little added gravitas. Visible weaves are great in jackets and trousers, as are decorative elements in shoes and belts. You’re wearing it for fun, so have some fun shapes in there.
Casual clothing for professional men
- A couple of patterned or textured sports jackets. Throw them on over any outfit with a collared shirt and long trousers for an instant upgrade.
- Pocket squares. You’re old enough to be paying attention to details, and you should have one of these in the breast pocket any time you wear a jacket.
- Gray wool slacks. Think of them like you used to think about blue jeans: default pants for every situation, to be dressed up or down as needed.
- A good collection of casual long-sleeved dress shirts and polo shirts.
- Shoes that make a statement: brogues, saddle shoes, chukka boots, or whatever other interesting options catch your eye. Tennis shoes and plain black/brown dress shoes should be reserved for playing tennis and business meetings, not worn for fun.
- A few neckties with an interesting color, pattern, texture, or shape (bowties are an option here). Wearing a tie every time you wear a colored shirt is stodgy, but wearing a tie for fun once in a while shows you’re in control of your look.
Business dress for the professional man
Your business dress needs are partially going to be determined by what the profession in your “Professional Man” is — lawyers need a wide selection of suits; car mechanics don’t. Every man can use at least one suit in the closet for interviews, weddings and business meetings. Beyond that, use your judgment and focus on buying the kinds of clothes you wear to work regularly. But there are a few rules that work at any level of formality:
#1 Be realistic about fit
Don’t kid around with the fit of your good business clothes. Get them tailored specifically to you, always, and be honest about the measurements. Counting on losing those ten pounds next month is just kidding yourself. Lose the weight, then have your clothes adjusted.
At the professional age, the fit of your clothes is a major sign of success (or failure). Someone in a slumped suit or a sports jacket that’s too short for his arms is someone who looks like he can’t afford or doesn’t care to look better. Neither one is going to inspire much confidence in their friends and peers.
You’re better off owning fewer clothes that fit better instead of lots of clothes that fit okay. Prioritize getting everything in your business wardrobe looking sharp and feeling comfortable over adding items for the sake of having a full closet.
How do you know if a suit fits?
Click here to discover how a suit should fit.
#2 Set an example
Think about the basic dress requirements for your job, whatever it may be.
Now plan on exceeding them.
In business, there’s no reason to blend in. If you work for someone else — a boss or an employer — it shows them that you’re comfortable where you are and don’t plan on advancing. If you’re self-employed, it shows clients and business partners that you’re getting complacent.
So plan on going a small step beyond the “dress code” at your workplace, whether it’s an official set of rules or not. If khakis and an open-collared dress shirt are the norm, alternate casual jackets and neckties as ways of exceeding standards. If everyone’s already in suits and ties, invest in good dress shirts and neckties, and make sure you’re always sporting a pocket square.
#3 Nail every element of your outfit
Wearing a good suit, or a good pair of slacks with a nice blazer, is only half the battle. The devil is in the details.
A professional man needs to strive for professionalism in all of his business clothes, not just the big pieces.
Dress shirts should be of good quality and fitted properly around the neck, with no loose collar standing off the skin. Cuffs should be visible a half-inch or so beyond the end of the jacket sleeve. Pocket squares should be present, bags should always be leather briefcases and not cloth backpacks or messenger bags, and leather and metal accents should always match (no silver watches if your blazer has brass buttons, etc.).
The difference between a man in a nice suit with no accents or sloppy details and a man in a nice suit with all his smaller accents in place is a striking one. Once you’re getting out of your 20s, it’s a difference you should be able to manage every day.
Business clothing for professional men
- A proper suit, preferably a made-to-measure or bespoke. 100% wool, good fit, dark color, and a reasonably conservative style keeps it appropriate for all business occasions.
- At least one pair of gray wool trousers. When your suit is too formal, wear these with a blazer instead.
- A navy blue blazer. You’ll need one of these at pretty much all ages, in fact. Add more blazers and sports jackets if you’re at an office that doesn’t require suits but does expect “business casual” dress.
- Lightly patterned or textured sports jackets for business-casual events. Throw them on over your dress shirt and slacks rather than stopping with just the collared shirt.
- Lots of neckties if you wear collared shirts to work on a regular basis. Nothing signals ‘stuck in a rut‘ like the same half-dozen ties over and over again.
- A couple of plain white dress shirts, without a button-down collar, for the most formal meetings and occasions.
- Plenty of lightly-colored or patterned dress shirts for more casual business wear.
- Black leather balmoral oxfords, in good shape and well-polished. A similar pair in brown for slightly less formal suit-and-tie occasions.
- Good belts and a quality men’s watch. If you’re not wearing a watch at this age, you look a little careless.
How Should A Mature Man Dress? (Age 55+)
By the time you’re in your 40s, people expect you to take life pretty seriously. You’re also getting old enough to start seeing hints of ageism in how people treat you, especially if you’re looking for a new job.
Dressing in your mature years means finding a balance between dignity and stodginess. Timeless styles are increasingly your friend; not so much trend-based fashions that fade in and out. It’s also time to simplify a little, leaving the intricately detailed outfits to younger men and opting for simple elegance whenever possible.
Casual clothes for mature men
If you don’t want to be taken for a fixed-income pensioner, don’t give up on your casual style. Stretch pants and sweatshirts say “done with life.” Have a little more crispness than that as you welcome your silver (or vanished) hairs.
#1 Don’t be afraid to out-dress younger men
One of the joys of old age is that you no longer look like you’re trying too hard if you wear a suit for fun, or are the only man in a crowd wearing a blazer. You’re an old guy. You get to do things like that.
Casual suits are one of the underused joys of American menswear. Have a few — in striped seersucker, plaid wool, pastel linen, or anything else that strikes your fancy. When you’re not in the mood for a suit, go for slacks and a sports jacket instead. An open-collared dress shirt or a turtleneck underneath will always say “I dress this way for fun.”
The key thing to avoid is anything that smacks of laziness rather than studied casualness. You want to be viewed as a leader, a mentor and a man of wisdom. Your outfits should look like they took a little thought and work. There are a lot of young men out there eager to dismiss their elders as “tired-out” and “over the hill” (often so that they can feel better about ignoring good advice). Show those young men you still have plenty left to teach them.
#2 Incorporate more accessories
It’s surprising how many great pieces of clothing some men never bother to wear. Hats, gloves, scarves, cufflinks — these are the refinements that an elder gentleman can use in his everyday wardrobe.
While younger guys might look overdressed, you’ll look like a VIP guest or the owner of the restaurant or theater you are in.
A few beloved hats are something every man should own by the time he’s 40. If you don’t have them yet, work on finding them. Colored leather gloves (anything from a sedate burgundy to a stylish yellow) are a three-season piece that almost nobody thinks to wear anymore, setting you firmly apart without being anything but the soul of dignity.
Smaller accents like French-cuff shirts with casual cufflinks, colored pocket squares, and neck scarves all complete the image of a man with both the time and the skill to out-dress everyone, even on his day off. The only touches worth avoiding are ones that evoke a specific past era, whether they’ve come back into style or not — an elder gentleman wearing a cravat is going to look like an oil painting from the 19th century. Stick to timeless classics.
#3 Add personality
The older you get, the more people will want to pretend you’re invisible.
Don’t let them.
Wear the unusual, the interesting, and occasionally the downright startling when you’re on your own time. Got a favorite old tweed jacket? Pair it with a pair of brightly-colored cotton or linen trousers to go from ‘aging British squire’ to ‘urban sophisticate’.
Mid-forties and up is also the age at which it finally becomes acceptable to wear fun, playful ties. Don’t make a habit of it, but don’t shy away from the occasional startling necktie that shows you have a zest for life. Break the stereotype of older men being somber and reserved. It’ll put a smile on people’s faces when they’re looking at you, and that’s always a good thing.
Just a sharp-looking pair of men’s dress shoes can be enough to draw the eye in an otherwise-relaxed outfit like slacks and a heritage fisherman-style sweater.
Whatever it takes to remind people that you’re there and, if necessary, that you’re older and wiser than them. Even what you carry in your pockets can come in handy here; young people these days are always impressed when a sharp-dressed man in his 60s pulls out a smartphone and opens its web browser.
Casual clothing for mature men
- A few non-business suits. These can be casually patterned or made from traditionally casual materials like linen and seersucker.
- Vests and waistcoats are a great way to look dapper without wearing a jacket (they’re also a nice way to slim any expanding waistlines). Have a few in the closet, either as part of three-piece suits or on their own.
- Lots of wool slacks and sports jackets. The more colors, patterns, and textures you have in the wardrobe, the more mix-and-match looks you can create.
- Quality, casual sweaters: cardigans, Guernsey or Aran Island sweaters, etc. Nothing baggy or shapeless.
- Comfortable, well-shined leather shoes in a variety of patterns and colors. A few pairs of dress boots wouldn’t hurt either.
- All the little elements: hats, gloves, walking sticks, scarves, etc.
- A good knee-length trenchcoat or similar overcoat. More than one in varying colors is no bad thing.
Business clothes for mature men
Business is a whole different world for older men. If you’re coming into a new job it’s going to be important to prove you can keep up with younger workers; if you’re in charge of your own employees it’s vital to demonstrate gravitas and wisdom.
Happily, business suits never look better than when they are paired with gray hair. You have access to the widest range of business styles, and no one will dare challenge your right to wear the sharpest of them. Enjoy.
#1 Don’t be afraid to stand out in a suit or sports jacket
Single-breasted, two-button suits in plain navy or charcoal are for young strivers. An older man has the dignity and the weight of experience to carry a double-breasted suit, or a three-piece suit, and he doesn’t need to shy away from elegant pinstripes either.
You don’t want to violate good business dress here, of course. If you’re wearing a suit for serious and formal business it should be dark, sober, and restrained. But a dark navy, charcoal, or black with pinstripes more than qualifies, and the added elegance of a full waist covering (either a waistcoat or the fold of a double-breasted jacket) is hard to argue with.
If suits are a regular business necessity, invest in a variety of business-appropriate styles. Any sign of habit or routine can be mistaken for complacency in competitive firms, so don’t be ‘the guy with the double-breasted suits’ day in and day out. Mix it up for maximum effect.
#2 Invest in the best materials
Subtle differences are the key to any older man’s wardrobe. You don’t need your suits or blazers to be remarkably different than a younger man’s — but they should be better.
High-quality cloth and tailored fits are the best way to achieve that subtle superiority. Two navy blazers in the same cut and color can look markedly different if one is made from thick, rich wool and cut to the wearer’s measurements and the other is unadjusted and in a thinner, cheaper cloth.
Having clothes that are just a little better than everyone else’s is worth a bit of an investment in your later life. And it gives the younger men something to strive for, which they can always use.
#3 Less is more
All that said, an older man doesn’t need flash in his business dress. Restrained elegance is the key. Good fabrics, fine suits, and all the details right — and then stop there.
Flashy watches, designer labels, and aggressively tight silhouettes are for younger men.
Your clothing and accessories should look fine, dignified, and comfortable. That puts you above the fray of any subtle one-upmanship.
In suits and jackets, this can be achieved with softer shoulders and a less distinct taper at the waist. In more casual outfits, sticking to darker, softer colors and avoiding stark blacks and whites achieves a similar effect.
Business clothing for mature men – what to wear
- Some really great, stylish men’s suits. Seriously, this is your time to shine. Do not be shy about living the good life in your choice of suits.
- A few crisp white shirts for the most formal business settings. For an elegant touch, wear ivory or cream rather than pure bleached white.
- Enough neckties to always have just the right one for an outfit. You’ve been collecting them for twenty-plus years now; you should have plenty.
- A navy blazer and a pair of gray wool pants in high-quality material, preferably tailored to your measurements.
- Black leather balmoral oxfords, well-shined. Leather soles are an added touch of elegance (and very comfortable to walk in, once you get used to the feel).
- Pocket squares, cufflinks as needed, and a simple, dressy wristwatch.
- A good wool overcoat that hits at least the back of the thighs. Dark navy or charcoal are good colors, and camel hair or khaki make a good choice for a second coat.
Style is not restricted by age. But that does not give men free license to dress as they please.
Embrace the new opportunities to try different styles as you age. Don’t be afraid to completely change your style as you move from one decade to another.
At the end of the day, always bear in mind these philosophies on dressing your age:
- Have fun – it’s okay if your outfit doesn’t hit the bullseye at first (it’s part of the process).
- Love yourself – stay true to yourself and use clothing to represent the best version of you.
- Be confident – feel as youthful/mature as you look and don’t let the clothes wear you
To boost your style game even further, check out my guide to slacks and dress pants – you could be wearing the wrong pair!
Click below to watch the video – How To Dress For Your Age: