Men’s Fashion Lessons I Learned The Hard Way So You Don’t Have To

[@morrisyarnell6083]

I learned so much as a salesperson working at Nordstrom selling suits that aligns with your advice. The ladies that worked in accessories were so much help in how I picked my style. Hard to sell clothes if you don't know how to wear them. Now that I am in my late 70s I have my style secured. Thanks for your videos.

[@40OverFashion]

My pleasure! Thank you for watching!

[@midnite22767]

This is also a good conversation for a father to have with his teen son. Great tips!

[@40OverFashion]

I think that’s a great idea!

[@omarcortes5754]

Everything has a learning curve, dressing well is not the exception.

[@emmanuelapac3315]

Happy New Year...thank you for your constant feedback and style education for all of us simple men out there.

[@40OverFashion]

Happy New Year!

[@MichaelHamilton-xx9ei]

Great video. It's the little things that truly elevate style.

[@40OverFashion]

Exactly, the details matter!

[@chrisb3902]

Great video John!!!

[@40OverFashion]

Appreciate it!

[@mikemacheese7174]

Great video as always! How do you feel about wearing shiny dress shoes with chinos instead of jeans?

[@40OverFashion]

If it’s an ultra formal dress shoe, it should be worn with ultra formal everything else. Casual brogues, or a wingtip derby would be a better option in my opinion.

[@matthewcormier8744]

Style finesse leveling up to my true potential ty for helping me and so many other people

[@phillip_reynolds]

Great video, John. Thanks for sharing your older blog photos!

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@ThePhilosophyOfNature]

Thanks John, useful tips.

[@40OverFashion]

Thanks for watching!

[@ronm6585]

Thanks John.

[@joseespana9821]

Great video I learned so much.

[@40OverFashion]

Appreciate you watching!

[@aaustin1986]

Fantastic refresher.

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@iflyfa18s]

Legend. Great video and tips! And I love my Anson belts!

[@40OverFashion]

Same here!

[@chanman916]

I love my Anson belts!

[@40OverFashion]

Me too!

[@pensivepenguin3000]

In my mid 20s, when I knew absolutely nothing about dressing up, I found some black dinner jacket or tux type jacket at a thrift store, and in my mind, fancy jackets were fancy jackets. Didn’t know a suit jacket from a tux jacket from a blazer. So, business meeting? Throw on the thrift store jacket. Fancy dinner? Throw on the thrift store jacket. Lol. The funny thing is, I would still get compliments, simply because so few people even make that much of an effort that it still got noticed. Nonetheless, not something I would repeat

[@regsantotomas]

Great primer. Something I just taught my son. Always button the top button of your dress shirt when wearing a tie. If it’s too uncomfortable to button it, the shirt neck size is probably too small.

[@40OverFashion]

Exactly! Great tip!

[@mrtoldyou5589]

No need for expensive cedar shoe trees for each pair...just a pair or two for recently worn shoes to absorb moisture, then plastic ones once dry. BONUS: Buy the manufacturer's shoe tree if they're shaped from that shoe's last!

[@40OverFashion]

Good tip!

[@rb8058]

Good stuff for leveling up with easy steps. What happened to the color matching wheel you used to leave in the description? Now that I need it I can't find!

[@40OverFashion]

The color wheel is from Canva. Just Google, Canva color wheel. I put it in the description when I made videos where I mentioned it.

[@evaldorank7375]

Nice tips as usual! Congrats on your vídeos!!!

[@40OverFashion]

Thanks, I appreciate it!

[@madissander]

Really good list, I've done similar mistakes. Maybe something to point out would be "less is more" In the begining I was trying to put too much in - too many colours, patterns and textures in one outfit. However all of the items were really nice and high quality it was too much all together. However you can use different patterns and textures and colours it's a very advanced level to get it right. I had a professional stylist (a friend of mine) helping me out both shopping in the begging and later I asked her opinion while putting outfits together It shortened the learning curve significantly and helped me avoid big mistakes. It still took about two years (!) until I didn't get any remarks to correct something. Yeah, she was a tough teacher but it really helps if you have a professional helping you out. Actually it saves you a lot of money, too.

[@40OverFashion]

Good point! I made the same mistake trying to go all out.

[@jasons6021]

John looking his worst is still better than 90% of guys looking their best.

[@40OverFashion]

Ha!

[@davedove67]

You also don't want the jacket to be too close to the color of the jeans. If the material doesn't match exactly, as in a suit, you want some contrast.

[@wallyg77]

John I think you pretty much covered it 👌🏻

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@05Rudey]

You still looked better than most, you can clearly see a lot of effort was made. I think we all go over the top a bit, I certainly did when i first dipped my toe in the mirky waters of age appropriate Mens style.

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@Diamond_Bear_Steve]

Where did you get the belt storage slots ???

[@40OverFashion]

Amazon! Right here.. amzn.to/4jeVB9h

[@danielj3010]

All accessories need to match. Even the watch ⌚

[@40OverFashion]

Good one. Matching metals.

[@dtshifter]

Good point, I like to match leathers of belt, watch and shoes. With watches, stainless steel always works but then, I try to also have a silver belt buckle. While outside of standard fashion, I let myself wear a classic Cassio watch once and a while in the color of my shirt or tie. I know this is technically outside of standards but going through my teens in the peak of Swatch and Cassio popularity has left a mark on me. So far I have never had a negative comment and try to coordinate my colors.

[@brownboyut]

I’d like to know what advice you’d give to someone with a gut. I’m working on getting rid of it, but how would you suggest dressing in the meantime?

[@40OverFashion]

I’ve made a whole video about this. Search my channel for “beer belly”. Maybe it’s time I make an update video.

[@amitrana3302]

Amazing❤️

[@etsblack7218]

Hey mate Happy New year! Question for you… You mentioned a while ago about grey hair. Mine is grey and white. How do I darken the white to grey? Don’t want this to look weird and obvious! Your thoughts are appreciated!

[@40OverFashion]

Gray blending. This isn’t technically hair color, but it’s a way too darken everything to sort of how your hair looks when it’s damp. It’s still gray, but everything just gets toned down.

[@etsblack7218]

Hi Thank you. I’ve googled the term and it keeps leading back to hair dye products. Is this something your barber will do or is it just a dye cover up? I’m sorry for the questions but it’s not something that anyone seems to be able to answer! Thank you for your reply!

[@Dylboz]

I'm 6'2" but I have the legs of a 5'10" & the torso of a 6'4" guy (a swimmer's build, I'm told) but it means I cannot tie a tie that both falls that low & allows me to tuck the small end into the loop. I use a kind of Pratt or Nicky knot but what is the best knot for a triangular, symmetrical knot with a decent dimple that works for tall guys? I never like the look of 4-in-hand but it's the go-to for tall guys.

[@40OverFashion]

I think the half Windsor would be a great option for you!

[@anthonynguyen2343]

Thank you

[@thriftabout5110]

Sport coat suit jacket (SC/SJ)buttoning rules. These are mostly cast in stone for me but YMMV at your own risk. 1. Never button the bottom button. This applies to both single and double breasted styles and vests. Also applies to cardigan sweaters and if more than 3 buttons, leave the top unbuttoned as well. 2. If a SC/SJ is a two button closure, always button the top button ONLY (except for the hopefully rare occasion you are wearing it fully unbuttoned). 3. If a SC/SJ is a three button, button the MIDDLE button always. The top button is at your option, buttoned or unbuttoned. 4. If you have more than a three button closure, get into your Tardis and spend the day with the Edwardians. About a decade ago, at a wedding where I was one of the 'older' guys in attendance, I was asked for assistance in knotting one of the groomsmen's neckties. By the time I was done, each guy (four or five, don't recall) stood in line and asked for adjustments as it was, apparently, the first time any of them had ever worn a real suit. I cut off tags, opened vents, refolded pocket squares (The sweaty guy who had been using his profusely needed it to be wrung out but we got him adjusted) and got all of the ties knotted and centered. I never saw the wedding photos but I like to think that if any of the gents ever looked back at them, they could hold their heads high at how well they looked in their youth. I doubt they remembered me but I like to think so.

[@40OverFashion]

Yes! I worked in the wedding industry for a few years, and I have lots of very similar stories. Well done!

[@adilvalikhanov528]

Hi John, as always - a great and useful video. Fully agree with you about not combining sneakers with suits. But, just for the sake of a story to share: I am 43, working in a corporate environment (a head of translation/interpretation department in the international company at the other end of the world from you). By work duties I attend a lot of meetings, sometimes high-end business and political ones, so I have to keep my attire at least smart casual on a daily basis and very often as formal as possible. I personally never wear sneakers with a suit, but I notice the younger guys, like office assistants, age 22-25 do so, and I have no problem with this. Looks even funny and catchy. Yet recently my "Big Boss" - the president of the company, a millionaire, age 88, being always known for dressing exemplary sharp and stylish, started to wear sneakers with his expensive designer-tailored double-breasted suits and formal ties - obviously because he is old, rich and he cares only about some comfort for his feet and not for somebodies' opinions. So, I guess, combining a formal suit with sneakers is okay when you are 25 and have no style, or when you are 90 and went beyond the matters of style, but it is not okay when you are a stylish working professional in your mid-40s. )))

[@40OverFashion]

Ha! Great story! So it’s only OK if you’re in your 20s, or in your 80s and rich. :)

[@nick.peterson]

Turning 40 this year, even though being stylish isn’t necessarily high on my priority list I do enjoy watching your videos, keep up the good work

[@40OverFashion]

Thanks, I appreciate it!

[@alexmarques2398]

It's a habit, not a priority.

[@paul0wen65]

Good stuff. The sports casters wearing sneakers and suits gets me, especially the NHL guys. Few actually match up.

[@40OverFashion]

I'm right there with you!

[@williamkazak469]

Interesting discussion. The idea of semi formal and mostly casual outfit component's intermingling hits home. I know that we might want to wear our favorite shoes or jackets but if we are mostly casual than hold back purchasing items that don't fit into that casual category. And for heavens sake, tuck your shirt in and button it up. i see ads on tv with male characters wearing shirts unbuttoned and untucked with a t-shirt showing. Also, on sport shows, we see broadcasters wearing suits with sport shoes! Don't be that guy. Get a leather shoe and wear it.

[@40OverFashion]

I think you’ve hit the nail on the head! Thanks for sharing!

[@monizdm]

It is a good think that Miranda Priestley did not hear you refer to "this stuff..." (The Cerulean monologue, in case you are not familiar with the movie.) I really enjoy your videos, and find them very helpful.

[@40OverFashion]

Sorry, not familiar.

[@BrianLannoye]

I wear that Buffalo Marble Tanned 1.25 with everything. It's my favorite belt. I mean, I wouldn't do it if I was super formal, but I do wear them with brown dress shoes. Especially my brogues. I don't own whole cut shoes, nor will I

[@guyh.4553]

I love adjustable belt buckles. First started using them in the Army and try to find them & can't. Plus, I can never wear any shirt untucked. And 100% agree about wearing sneakers with a suit. Don't do it. If I was interviewing someone, any age, & they came in wearing sneakers I would immediately dismiss them as they do not care for the way they look so they would not care for their work. Old school? Probably, but it does matter in the real world. I do have to ask a question about ties. Most of the ties I own do not fit me correctly as I have a long torso. Thoughts? Legend, out. 😊😊😊

[@40OverFashion]

Thanks for watching! With ties, you can get them in extra long length.

[@sjnorte]

Is the " classic Penny Loafer" being still just a chino pant or flat casual and maybe business casual ?

[@steveleatherwood3803]

Hey John. Question. How much should your belt show once it is buckled?

[@40OverFashion]

If your shirt is tucked in, your belt should show.

[@frankpowell1778]

The length of belt after the buckle should just pass the first belt loop?

[@steveleatherwood3803]

Thank you frank.

[@pensivepenguin3000]

About the collar points and sweater, I would think if you are wearing a V-neck sweater, the entire collar is going to be exposed, thus that rule probably wouldn’t be in play, right? I’m guessing that rule is only applicable to a crewneck

[@40OverFashion]

Not necessarily. If the sweater fits correctly, the neck opening width is still narrowing enough to keep the collar points inside. If it’s a wide neck opening, I would definitely go with a button-down collar shirt.

[@stephenbennett9123]

I have totally been that guy who is too keen and trying to do too much at once. From those early pics the simplest outfits look more put together and breezy. As Co-co Chanel said, " Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off." There was too much black, like you were determined to see black as a neutral and its not really. Not enough brown/warmer colors or fine tuning of colors to be more harmonious. For example the bright orange tie would look have worked better in burnt orange.

[@FranciscoMalpica]

I agree with on black shoes with stone washed blue jeans ⛔️ but what about dark jeans? And what about chinos (of any color)?

[@40OverFashion]

I would generally suggest not wearing black dress shoes with any type of blue jeans. Brown shoes would be a better choice. If you’re dressing up with chinos, black could work.

[@FranciscoMalpica]

@@40OverFashion Thank you for your feedback. It is useful as the fine line between the formality levels is the most difficult thing to apprehend ! Thank you for the videos 👌

[@DougHardy541]

Don’t be too hard on yourself concerning your earlier style … a bit dandy and try hard, but really pretty good. Your style has just evolved with age, experience, and confidence. I think you are in a sweet spot right now, hence why I comment and follow the channel!

[@40OverFashion]

Appreciate that Doug! Thanks for watching!

[@ericl7842]

#legend

[@ianflem3717]

At least you learned.

[@gregs.8895]

Great list. Re-tie your tie as many times as needed guys, come on. It is right there in front of you and just attracts attention.

[@kevinmcd112]

3:45... or get you pants fitted so you don’t need a belt.

[@shawndennstedt5898]

Orange tie on point.

[@40OverFashion]

Haha!

[@matthewcormier8744]

I'm watching to elevate my existence 24 7 i love looking Good and smelling my Best

[@WindsurfMaui]

Good tips but commercial too long for the length of the video.

[@40OverFashion]

Appreciate the feedback!

[@AnEnglishGentleman]

Tucking your shirt in is always a good idea in my opinion, to take account of the golden ratio. You will always look well put together.

[@gravewalker1632]

Irritating to see suit jackets when buttoned stretch across forming ripples. Reminds me of some one that kept his suit from middle school and is still wearing it. I don't know if that was just a trend, but I still see it. No bueno!

[@albundy4493]

Thanks john..Good Video..😊

[@40OverFashion]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching!

[@matthewpinder1607]

Im a short guy. How to dress so not to look shorter

[@dtshifter]

Call me wrong if you like, I won't cry over it. I love jeans but don't try to mix them with sports coats or blazers, the minimum for the lower half when dressing up is chinos. For socks, mostly I match to pants but sometimes matching to a tie or shirt can be fun. As a slim athletic guy, I feel I can still rock that look. As for bold tie squares? Those come off as frivolous like an ascot. You will see them worn by KZbin fashion influencers and male models but you won't see them on world leaders, CEOs or your news anchormen. If a foreign country can send a diplomat to negotiate a trade or world peace deal without a pocket square, you won't need one for a normal day of life. You want to rock bluejeans? how about a polo or turtleneck with a navy blue peacoat? Feel free to tell me that I am wrong.

[@40OverFashion]

Different strokes! Appreciate the comment!

[@albundy4493]

I am 50 lbs overweight..I just cant lose the fat..I wanna go to a weight loss clinic..I wanna be put to sleep for 3 months fed protein and supplements through a drip..when i wake up i am gone from 16 stone 7 lbs to 13 stone....oh how i dream

[@themancuniancandidate2744]

Another great video John. Something that's worth considering is that your surroundings will to some extent dictate how much a of a style faux pas you've committed. I live in Perth, Western Australia; home to possibly the worst dressed men in the developed world. I get compliments on my style if I wear a plain t-shirt, jeans, and loafers; that's how low the bar is here. It's still the only place I've ever been where I see men walk around the supermarket barefoot. If I lived in Manhattan or Milan, my dress sense would probably be viewed with disdain. With that being said, here are my style no-nos; -As John noted above, don't wear formal shoes like Derbys or Oxfords with jeans. It looks like your mum dressed you. -Don't wear a polo shirt tucked into your jeans/pants. Unless you want to look like Alan Harper. -Don't wear your polo shirt with the collar turned up. Nothing will make you look like more of a twat. -Make sure your socks go up your calf a good length. Nobody wants to see your pasty white hairy legs when you sit down. Unless you are black, in which case you have an advantage. -For the love of god, if you must wear white socks, restrict them to when you're playing sports. Don't-under ANY circumstances-wear them with your daytime/evening clothes. However, you'd be regarded as a style icon in rural Bavaria. -Don't wear a tie with matching pocket square. John is dead right. Plus it will look like someone bought you a box set for Xmas. And the most important tip of all. Don't wear Crocs or fucking Birkenstocks.

[@40OverFashion]

Well said! Thank you!