Fashion is an ever-moving target that is constantly fluctuating and being reinvented, but in the wake of every trend, there are truths that stand out. We know as men over 50 it can be hard to keep up with what is in-style and what is a fashion faux pas. Even more elusive perhaps is an appreciation of what women do or don’t like about men’s fashion choices. As we wrap up 2021 and enter 2022 (and beyond), it’s time we recalibrate and reflect on the evolution of men’s fashion trends. We’ve scoured the internet and undergone extensive research to come up with this collection of secrets. If you’ve ever wondered what women think about your cargo shorts, well-groomed eyebrows, or choice of socks, then you, my good sir, have come to the right place. For better or worse, for confidence or cringing, here are 15 Secrets From Women On Men’s Fashion.
Our special thanks to Rebekah for the background research, writing, and contributions!
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1. If your shorts stop higher than an inch or two above your knee, then they are way too short.
It might have been cool in the 70s or 80s, but nowadays men in short shorts is just awkward for women and they don’t like it. Women must insist that men wear shorts that come down at least to the top of the knee. Also, heavily pleated shorts are not attractive or flattering.
Here’s a good example of non-pleated shorts with the correct length. Amazon Affiliate link.
2. Unless you’re going to a polo match, the golf course, or are in Bermuda, shorts are not formal
They’re just not. So if your lady has taken the time to wear a nice dress and high heels, you should probably not be wearing shorts.
3. Your fun, colorful, formal socks are awesome!
Women love that type of subtle pizzaz. It’s unique and different, and it’s a fun surprise that they definitely enjoy. If your sense of style is more understated but you’d like to kick it up a notch, invest in a few nice pairs of wild dress socks, and your lady is sure to be impressed.
We talk about fun socks in our blog on 7 Fashion Items Men Over 50 Need In Their Closet.
4. Nothing screams “Dad” more than ribbed, knee-high, white socks.
No one should ever know you’re wearing knee-highs to begin with, but think about switching to black socks. Unless you are wearing white shoes, black socks are always more presentable. Trust women on this.
5. White socks should never be worn with black shoes.
It might be common knowledge, but don’t do it. Ever. And conversely, black socks should never be worn with white shoes.
6. Facial hair and grooming matters.
Every woman is different. Some women love a beard, and some love a clean-shaven face. Mustaches are a tensely controversial, and women either love or despise them. Keep your facial hair neutral or ask your lady what she prefers.
7. Women love when your eyebrows are groomed.
Seriously, they love it. If you get them waxed or keep them well-groomed, women notice and they appreciate that – a lot! It’s one of the few simple things that any man can do to enhance his overall appearance.
8. Hats (NOT baseball caps) for older men are sexy.
Women love the mysterious look of a smartly dressed man in a well-appointed hat. So even if it feels a little strange at first, swap out the baseball cap for a sleek wool fedora or flat cap and see what happens.
9. Your fitted suit is noticeably more attractive.
Women notice men who wear their suit well, and they love the sophisticated polish of a fitted suit. Not one for custom fits? Take your existing suit to your tailor to be fitted to your shape appropriately. It will elevate your entire outfit, boost your confidence, and will compliment your physique.
10. Shirts with huge collars that rest over the jacket lapels are awful
Collars should be subtle and tasteful. If you’ve got batwings spreading out over your jacket lapels, then it’s probably time to go shopping for some new dress shirts.
11. Your well-organized slim wallet says something about you.
If your wallet is more stuffed than a Thanksgiving turkey, then it’s time to clean it out and purchase a slimmer looking one. And if your wallet is already slim, sleek, and well-organized, women respect that.
12. Cargo pants/shorts are not in anymore.
Admittedly, cargo pants and shorts were very much in style for a while not that long ago, but unless you are in the military, are a zoologist, or are on a hiking trek, cargo shorts and cargo pants just aren’t the trend anymore.
13. Square-toed shoes are not in style anymore.
If George Clooney doesn’t wear square-toed dress shoes (and he does not – we checked), then neither should you.
14. Wide ties scream 1990s.
Your wide tie from the 90s or early 2000s is no longer sophisticated. Fashionable ties are slimmer and sleeker now.
15. Men look sexy in scarves.
It turns out scarves are hot, both literally and figuratively. Women especially admire men who layer a sophisticated wool coat with a stylish scarf. Pair with leather gloves and you will turn more than a few heads for sure. This one was practically unanimous, so if you don’t have a nice manly scarf, you need one.
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Final Thoughts on 15 Secrets From Women On Men's Fashion.
Having a great fashion sense and killer wardrobe is not that difficult, we’ve got quite a few blogs on those topics for you to use. But taking a little subtle advice could well round out your look and answer any nagging questions you didn’t want to ask. the entire Did any of the secrets listed above surprise you? Do you have any personal insight from your own ladies to share? Let’s chat! Leave a reply in the form below.
Interested in learning more about men’s fashion? Check out our links below:
- 7 Fashion Pieces Men Need In Their Closet
- 5 Men Over 50 With Killer Fashion Sense.
- Step Up Your Style With Men’s Clothing Accessories
We hope that you’ve found some useful information with our piece on 15 Secrets From Women On Men’s Fashion.
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