25 Essentials To Build A Basic Wardrobe | Over 40

[@mgapagnolo1819]

With your advise I am going to win the war of my old wardrobe and frumpy old style.

[@rontiemens2553]

I lost 150 lbs a couple years ago and had to replace my wardrobe three times over the year it took me to lose the weight. I am looking now to upgrade my style game. Glad I found your channel and am glad to be a subscriber.

[@40OverFashion]

Awesome! Thank you very much!

[@jesterflight8593]

This fella is my absolute hero. I was weary at first, because I turn 58 on March 27. And I thought he was about 15 years younger, so I felt ashamed trying to dress like him, but he looks absolutely awesome & much better than any young fella in his 20’s! He’s what a US JB would look like, as a spy, stateside.

[@guerogb]

Hi John... I finally decided to step my game up a bit and I must be say you have given me the perfect blueprint to begin my new journey! Thanks a bunch

[@40OverFashion]

Great to hear!

[@RobinsWatchJourney]

If you look in my closet you can tell I’ve been watching your videos for several years. I have almost everything on your list. Thanks for your guidance.

[@40OverFashion]

You’re welcome Robin!

[@FloridaManConstruction]

Your videos are so tight and well produced. You make learning a pleasure. Thanks! 👍🏼🌴🐈🐈🐈🌴🏴‍☠️

[@gryffydd42]

I’ve been told that Navy blazer with gold buttons is a solid go to for sport coat, and is versatile (haven’t gotten it yet, but it’s on list). For dressing up a bit, I like to wear vests, and get compliments regularly for doing so.

[@poncedeleon5964]

I. m over 70 and have followed your advice in choosing the right outfit on different occasions and finding them absolutely important to stick to styles of my own age. Thanks again for your informative advice. Take care and stay safe.

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@keithp115]

Perfect timing for me since I’m ready to clean out the closet for Spring and Summer clothing. Great job John, we appreciate you!!

[@BULLARDtheOKIE]

Same here! I'm just beginning to watch but cleaning out my closet

[@keithp115]

@@BULLARDtheOKIE John is definitely the best in the business sir!

[@40OverFashion]

Thanks Keith! Cheers!

[@civicdutymedia8917]

@@keithp115 he hi Ty h h bbbbb hi by bbbbbbbghbb BBB BBB bbbbbbbbbbbbb BBB bbbbb BBB bbb BBB t

[@JMD1965]

Went carnivore/Keto 13 months ago.. I've dropped 44 lbs... soooo... Yeah, new clothes & having a good tailor on my phone contacts has been a must 👌... I would also like to suggest for a casual jacket something in tweed.. Either a herringbone or Donegal pattern, with sleeve patches and at least one turtleneck.. think Steve McQueen in 'Bullitt' and you'll nail it

[@Andoy12]

Sport coats are terrific for upping style

[@aaronadkins74]

John, thank you. I'm newly working toward an Executive Director position and learning about dressing better. I have seen your videos also about watches, and jewelry for men to wear. Your advice has been very helpful and thank you. You have literally helped me keeping my closet and dresser from being clutter free.

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you Aaron!

[@markgrantBJJ]

To all of our friends living in areas where it gets on the colder side... I would also recommend adding in a peacoat. A peacoat can be dressed up and dressed down.

[@40OverFashion]

Absolutely! Great addition!

[@DM_Curtis]

My navy peacoat is my favorite coat for fall and winter.

[@mrinmoyb1]

Hi John, I have been watching your videos for a while now and feel that your styling suggestions are unparalleled. Might I request you to also discuss styling for workplace. I have worked on curating these shirts for workplace. Would be delighted to know your thoughts on them: 1. White 2. Off White 3. Light Blue 4. Medium Blue 5. Light Grey 6. White and Blue in small chequered 7. Blue and white striped 8. White dotted 9. Light Blue in subtle pattern

[@eds73100]

Great video John! I do wear Jeans and Chinos most of the time. I also keep my sneakers very basic, nothing bulky.

[@gregshanahan6766]

Hey John you’ve been upping your game lately with the videos. Concise and good info. Thanks a lot.

[@40OverFashion]

You’re welcome! Appreciate your comment!

[@ericl7842]

Great video my friend. These are all great call outs and virtual perfection to any man’s closet. I totally agree with you on the V neck sweater! I thought I was the only one ha. I recently did a closet purge… and redid the entire closet with high end hangers. What a world of difference and elevation. Have a great day!

[@40OverFashion]

Love that! Cheers!

[@eschaefer6512]

I have never been much of a jeans wearer as I have gotten older and have gotten rid of them completely. However, I do wear a lot of the 5 pocket design pants which come in a variety of weights and colors. Very much like a jean but much more versatile. A navy blazer is the go to all purpose jacket at least here on the east coast. It goes casual and dressy. You can never go wrong with one. Cotton and/or in wool.

[@gat73ca]

Hi John, just wanted to say that I really appreciate your channel and the work you do. You’re helping me think more precisely about life and my goals after COVID. Thanks!

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you Greg!

[@hmemcpy5807]

Thank you for your channel! My own story is similar to yours- nearing 40 and recently lost over 30 pounds! Donated all my old clothes (or, tents, as I now call them) and now shopping for new appropriate apparel. One thing to mention for your list - a nice denim jacket!

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@Cloud7Travel]

I have dropped 25-30 lb and the weight seems to have stabilized now. I will now go into my closet and try on every piece for fitment. Things that no longer fit or out of style will be donated. It's time to clean out my closet. Thanks for the wardrobe ideas 💡

[@40OverFashion]

You’re welcome!

[@juny1982]

Yup!! The Guy!! Giving good advice, I'm jeans guy denims and Black, sneakers New Balance, LeBron, Adidas running sneakers, casual shoes Clark my favorite, Polos, Black be and Blue navy , t shirts black , White, grey, Long sleeve shirt Black, grey, blue navy, fragrance Halloween one shot easy. Keep the good work Man ♂️

[@jeffbassin630]

All of your selections are excellent.

[@40OverFashion]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@howardhodge3622]

Great list. Wish I could buy everything at once! Thanks!👍

[@wittvonwitt4403]

This is very helpful! 42 year old guy here looking to level up my look

[@matt3950]

Hi John, I was the one that messaged you on IG about this. Thanks, really boiled it down. I plan on paring down my closet considerably this spring. Everything comes out, and only my best goes back in, starting with these items.

[@40OverFashion]

Love that! Thank you!

[@flfbsphatboyblue8970]

I would either add or replace a jacket with a Schott 618 perfecto as I do ride a bike a lot . For boots, I go with some sturdy lace up heritage boots like a Thursday Captain or a Redwing boot. All else you mentioned, I have and enjoy dressing upgraded casual style. A tip that really helps is to have your colours analyzed to know what colours work best. They go by season. I apparently am a summer season. There is an excellent book on the topic along whit a treasure trove of styling clothes and accessories.

[@ronm6585]

Thanks John.

[@40OverFashion]

You’re welcome!

[@christopherabaddon2311]

Great list, John. Thanks for the pointers. I would make one of the jackets leather. I’d throw in a waistcoat and a hat.

[@40OverFashion]

Good ones!

[@paulharrison25]

Great vid, with some great tips 👍

[@sansei56]

I am proud to say, you just described my closet except multiply everything by 6! Today, I’m wearing green chinos, a t-shirt and off-white Chuck Taylors. I love your videos and appreciate your style and taste. Thanks for what you do!

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you Tim!

[@billsherrington5996]

Thanks for this. You’ve pretty much described my wardrobe exactly! Additional things I have are a pair of white jeans and a Ralph Lauren brown leather jacket and dark blue peacoat.

[@markrossington6884]

Thanks for keeping it basic and concise.

[@40OverFashion]

You’re welcome Mark!

[@behdadesoterikspiritualita9157]

Thank you ☀️

[@evaldorank7375]

Perfect suggestions, John!!!!

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@andreleverettejr3747]

Your dad's watches to you are more priceless than any Patek or AP out there

[@ricliddle3382]

Thanks John for the refresher, basic and simple! 🙏

[@40OverFashion]

Thanks Ric!

[@StarJoker2]

I'm 32 but my face looks like I'm 22. Regardless, I find your videos very useful for dressing well as I get older. You and Antonio from Real Men Real Style do great videos. Good to see another Express fan as well. Thanks for being modest and honest :)

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you very much! Appreciate your comment!

[@pauls9783]

Thanks John

[@40OverFashion]

You’re welcome!

[@aptrendz1815]

Great basics

[@monphaste7326]

Good job👌👏👏👏

[@johnniehall3692]

Great video 👍👍

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@brunoakabigb7599]

I'm 50 and I lost 55 pounds in 8 months and your advices are very important to me. How to rebuild my wardrobe, which garment associated with another, which shoes or accessories to choose ... Thank you. Do not stop your videos. Cheers from France

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@hustlemadec9985]

He has great style

[@KEITHZEALEY]

Sage advice John. A tip that helped me is you don’t need to start from scratch. Just push all your clothes to one side and pull out the items that fit you well to start your basic/capsule wardrobe. Go shopping to fill in the gaps. In time you probably see the items you pushed to the side will be donated or made into shop rags.

[@40OverFashion]

Thanks Keith!

[@chrisb3902]

Great video John!

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@moneyfornothing3264]

Legend! Great Advice Good Sir!

[@40OverFashion]

Legend!

[@s1212able]

Great video

[@FreddieG501]

Great list. I also live in So Cal (San Diego), and do have a basic white “minimalist” sneaker with a white sole, and a navy blue with a white sole. The only thing I’d recommend is it seems gum sole sneakers (same style) are really taking off. Might add one of those my wardrobe. Thanks!

[@40OverFashion]

Yes! Love a good gum sole! Thanks for watching!

[@DeadEyeRabbit]

I’d choose the blue over black.

[@kingyellowman5762]

Grey sneakers are my most versatile

[@darryl1139]

Thanks so much for the video John. Great advice as always mate 😀

[@40OverFashion]

You’re welcome! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@juanarce6900]

I got the jeans, shirts, but lack oxfords. Somehow I pull some combinations with 2 pairs of doc martens(black, brown). Jackets are pointless here in El Salvador, way too hot year round. Shorts, boat shoes are very common here. Most of my sportcoats are very hot but I got to use them or they get destroyed by the harsh elements here. Enjoy the weekend John, and have a productive week amigo.

[@40OverFashion]

Thanks Juan! Much appreciated!

[@danielj3010]

Puffer vest is my go to - can go well over T-shirt, polo, fleece, thermal, you name it, for a six month+ cold environment .

[@40OverFashion]

Good one!

[@nymapleleaf]

During covid I dropped close to 30 pounds, but got too skinny, so put 5 back on. Now I am in the same boat... Thankfully my M size sweaters and shirts still fit, but my 34w has now dropped to a 33w. Looking to rebuild my pants/shorts and always add shoes. Great tips!

[@graemestewar]

Losing 30ibs only dropped your waist size by 1 inch?

[@guyhmajor]

Very good!! In the UK I would add my Daniel Craig style black Barbour and some moleskin trousers to substitute chino’s in winter.

[@leonardcroft1467]

Hi John Great video Love Your Essential List ! Thanks

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you Leonard!

[@eddielopez3702]

Great video. I am also getting rid of some items that I no longer wear. Good advice on what to keep as staple items. Thanks John.

[@40OverFashion]

You’re very welcome!

[@wedchic7]

Thank you John. I just stepped into my 40. How about a video about workbags?

[@kennethfrank6244]

The information give by u was very useful and top notch

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@Ace_Of_Bace]

Fantastic!

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@kambizeqbal33]

Great vid

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@Jebro439]

Great list

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@christopherbarker976]

Hi John very good summary it helped me focus on my wardrobe. Thanks. Christopher Barker

[@40OverFashion]

Thanks for commenting Christopher!

[@flfbsphatboyblue8970]

Don’t forget a nice wool vest or jacket if your more into outdoorsy clothing. A nice Filson wool Mackinaw Cruiser $$$$$ or a cheaper Big Bill 24 oz wool hunting jacket for less $$$. You would love the cozy ware comfort.

[@Mike----]

Interesting choice about the bomber jacket. I tend to shy away from jackets with elastic around the waist because if I lift up my arms for a moment, the jacket doesn’t come back down. It stays pulled up until I fix it. That said, somehow I still ended up with a couple bombers. I just tend not to zip them. Problem solved. 👍

[@danieltrezub8130]

Great tips! For colder climates I'd add scarves, hats, and gloves. Also, you didn't mention socks. Should they match the pants?

[@40OverFashion]

Generally speaking, yes.

[@DMorgan77]

New follower here. Great video John.

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you Jimmy!

[@TheGreggmelvin04]

Great topic. I am about to redo my wardrobe. #Legend

[@40OverFashion]

Thanks for watching!

[@greggraham9785]

Hello John, how are you? Thank you for that information and video. I have been Taking your advice for a while now. Stay safe brother

[@40OverFashion]

Thanks Greg!

[@danielcarpini2057]

Great advice, John. Have to ask, where is the polo you are wearing from? I am a huge fan of long sleeved polos and find they are the perfect look for business video calls....while also transition from casual to under a blazer easily .. Would love to see you do a piece on video call suggestions that touched on lighting, backgrounds and of course, shirt selection.

[@40OverFashion]

John Henric! Thanks for the suggestion!

[@tassieadventurerider4815]

Maybe also mention a couple of mix up belts… great video … thank you

[@peternicholas9110]

Super video. I have two comments if that’s ok. First I would say no to the black sneakers and recommend Navy Blue instead. I find that way more versatile. Secondly if revamping or rebuilding your wardrobe, and if you are confident with sizing, use an online retailer like Tyrwhitt in 🇬🇧. They do package deals so won’t ruin the budget and the quality is excellent. Also whilst I think, add a black leather bomber, again you can dress it up or down. Cheers. PN 👍👍👍👍

[@40OverFashion]

Cheers!

[@chrialivest]

I like the suggestions #legend

[@dm9078]

My only addition would be a pair of black shoes/boots!

[@40OverFashion]

Good one!

[@ericjohnson2965]

I'm rebuilding with super tight skinny slim chinos billowy shirts some with ruffs but mostly banded colours pleated slacks lots of turtlenecks doublets and jerkins cowboy boots long pointed style poulaine sweaters any kind any colour coats and jackets are a must leather trousers yes leather trousers

[@cocomarsh1]

How do you feel the long-term quality of express clothing is? I used to buy from them religiously back when it was a little younger (now 46).

[@40OverFashion]

It’s good! No issues for me at all.

[@thomaspitale2370]

I would add a Navy, or charcoal grey sport coat or blazer, instead of the patterned sport coat.

[@40OverFashion]

Good one!

[@smjohnson1970]

Just came back to this video. I have lost 40 pounds and I need to change up my wardrobe. Thank you so much for the resource!

[@40OverFashion]

You’re welcome!

[@AlonsoMosly]

Have been in the US for almost 6 months, in California, Nevada and Washington states. Were rare cases to see well dressed man. Mostly people were in loose jeans, tees and running sport shoes.

[@Orapqa1]

Great video! What brand are those chukkas?

[@scottheiman2336]

Thanks for the video, John! What brand of jeans are those that you show toward the beginning of the video?

[@40OverFashion]

Revtown @ American Eagle

[@SpringPit]

What's your thought about stick fix for wardrobe change? Lost weight and need to change/update my wardrobe

[@40OverFashion]

Yeah, no problems with them. It’s a good way to try things that you otherwise wouldn’t.

[@philrose7716]

I think many of you subscribers would like to get a tour of your closet. Yes I'm one of them.

[@jrkline4750]

Please, advise me and others bout classy outfits for the ….. south Florida weather!! (MIAMI)

[@stevemccrory9130]

Going to revert to your previous default comment request..... LEGEND

[@40OverFashion]

Legend!

[@philipcoleman909]

I would add a flannel shirt in plaid

[@anthonynguyen2343]

I’m like to this video for John help video.

[@karlr750]

I lost 30 lbs. in 2020, so I faced the same situation where I had to replace my entire wardrobe (or have items taken in by my tailor). I live in a humid subtropical climate, and I need a dressier wardrobe, so I have a different take. I skipped one of the pairs of minimal sneakers and went with a pair of loafers. I went with a pair of leather Chelsea boots instead of suede chukka boots, because they work better on rainy days. I prefer tech pants over jeans, since they're substantially lighter weight in the heat. The right pair can worn like dress slacks and also handle a rough hike. For casual shirts, I went with linen or cotton-linen blends. They're substantially cooler than shirts with button-down collars (which are typically heavy Oxford cloth cotton). I consider a suit to be an essential item (even if it's only worn for job interviews, weddings, and funerals). On the other hand, it will be one of the last things that I replace, due to the expense. I want to ensure that my weight has stabilized for the long haul before I invest that much into one piece.

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you for commenting Karl! Great additions!

[@garyabc]

I lost 25 lbs so I'm bringing my suits to the tailor to see if I can salvage them.

[@chop3625]

Theses days are all about minimalism. Less clothes more quality. Chino’s in all colors and fits are the winner for me. Jeans are just a lack of imagination, so tired looking. BTW I wouldn’t be caught dead with those white sneakers. Fine clip as always.

[@Chris-il6yh]

Wool coat Wool scarf a nice hat. Brown casual leather belt black&tan dress leather belt.

[@40OverFashion]

Good additions!

[@bobmetcalfe9640]

I would replace the oxfords with a pair of - I think you call them loafers? - I just find them formal but a bit more versatile, and easier to get on. Maybe I'm rebelling against my father, who always wore oxfords. You'd think at 73 I wouldn't need to.:)

[@nlaubner]

Thanks for the videos, I've enjoyed them, very informative. What brand our the black and white sneakers featured in your video? Thanks.

[@40OverFashion]

Greats

[@mantumapan]

I would add some socks, solid polo shirts, leather belts and diver watches

[@40OverFashion]

Absolutely!

[@GregDiBernardo]

Hi John...Love the channel. Thanks for your hard work. I have an unrelated question on undershirts. Before I found you, I was a white crew neck guy and with one button open and my undershirt showed. I have since realized this looks bad and am going with 2 buttons open and it looks much better. I am having a really hard time finding no show undershirts. What do you suggest and use? I am in ATL so it gets too muggy to not wear something. THANKS

[@40OverFashion]

I’m not sure if they’re still around, but try Ribbed Tee.

[@GregDiBernardo]

@@40OverFashion Thanks. I'll check into them but I think they went out of business. What do you wear?

[@BrianLannoye]

I think I would do the opposite as far as shirts and sport jackets go. Solid or subtle pattern on the jacket, pattern on the shirt. Except have one white dress shirt.

[@ttop64]

Hi John. In the case of black jeans as a dressier jean how faded should you let them get before they should be replaced or is re-dyeing them an option if they are still in good condition ? Peace. : )

[@40OverFashion]

Personally, I would probably replace them.

[@thefoxdoctor1072]

I wanted to say that every man should also have atleast one overcoat in there wardrobe either in black or camel and being a wool/cashmer blend. I prefer the full length ones that go past your knees but a 3/4 length one is fine to. I also like the wool/Cashmere blend car coats similar to an overcoat but not as long in either black or camel if one doesn't like the overcoats and they go with either a suit or they look good with nice jeans and a sweater or jeans and a sports coat.

[@jsutton5555]

What about alterations versus replacement due to weight loss….where you’ll you draw the line

[@Paul-sl1si]

Hi John, Could you give links.I am interested in the suede jacket.Also,I live in Ontario Canada.Import fees can be expensive.Can you give suggestions for links for Canadians?

[@michaelpyatt831]

I would have to say for shoes, you need a good pair of classic doc marts, they look the business with dark jeans and a good polo, For polo's i always have to go Burberry as they seem to avoid the eternal curse of the collapsing collar that ruins many a nice polo,

[@richardwright4456]

Hi John, Great video. How did you drop the 30/40 pounds in 2013?

[@40OverFashion]

Diet & exercise. I started with a lot of fasted cardio, then I hired a trainer at the gym.