When IS It Okay And NOT Okay To Wear Sneakers Over 40?

[@PapaCowboySr]

Great video John. I am 67 and about 6-8- months ago I’ve decided that i love to wear sneakers on most occasions. I am slowly building up my wardrobe with a combination of nice casual and dress sneakers. Loved your video.

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@nedmerrill6228]

Same here, just subscribed.changing wardrobe slowly following these videos.

[@GenX6887]

It doesn't matter how dressy a sneaker may be. They just don't work with a suit. And they never will. Leather sneakers, however, work way better with casual outfits like chino pants and a polo shirt, and a flannel button up shirt with jeans.

[@andrewtremblay262]

I bought a pair of brown leather sneakers and white ones as well and they are currently my mainstay shoes . I work from home like you . I admit they add that extra style and maturity.

[@40OverFashion]

Thanks for commenting Andrew!

[@SarcoidosisWarrior]

100% John Must admit that I did the Miami Vice look in the 1980's - wouldn't dream of it now though 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@phillipj.moodie3077]

In Queensland Australia those Miami Vice "Vintage" outfit would be seen as being Retro Fashion Style on the entire East Coast of Queensland from the Gold Coast to Airlie Beach. While that should include Cairns that City is so busy catering to Tourist flying in direct from China, that it would be a wasted effort. But that a style that should look fantastic in aTropical City, with its coastline on the Coral Sea that is now populated by "Influencers" more concerned with how they look in a Bikini on Instagram with the beautiful islands of the Great Barrier Reef as a back drop. But the roads would be the ideal place to drive the compulsory Ferrari. Send John a photo so that a few of us can revive the memories of better times, when our bodies could cope with a life fueled by Sex, Drugs and Rock'n'Roll.Phil.

[@K8TO88]

Great Work Mate..... I live in Australia, and I'm over 40 myself, really enjoy your content, as does my wardrobe. Stay Safe and remain Amazing....

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@27391ltd]

Hi John. Agree with every word. Dress black leather sneakers are part of my every day or on a date with my wife attire. Loafers for business ( hi tech casual or to a university environment)

[@leonardcroft1467]

Hi John Love The Casual Sneaker Look .. Thanks

[@eds73100]

I stick with the sneakers which are timeless and classic! My all white Adidas Superstars seem to get the job done. They are lightweight and not too pricey!

[@tonyfernandez4189]

I think it depends on the type of suit and of course the situation. A warm weather suit eg: linen , cotton unlined with minimal structure and not with a collared shirt.....most definitely.

[@vincentray4123]

Hi John some very smart photos of you in your sneakers question how do you stop your colour on your polo shirt from not turning up on the ends.or was that one just pressed 😁

[@40OverFashion]

Ive found that better quality polos tend to not have that issue.

[@kawasakiwhiptwo5821]

If you wear the right sneaker, they can always be appropriate. (except formal dress of course). I have a blue suade pair of what I call "Snoose". Exactly what you think it is.. a sneaker that is cut and looks like a shoe. Gray cargo shorts, a blue Ralph Lauren Polo shirt and my blue suade snoose. Some "snoose" are VERY upscale and have a price tag to match.

[@randycallaway583]

I wear sneakers such as the dress sneakers often, however, I would not wear sneakers with a suit its not for me. I believe younger men can pull it off in some cases. Over 40 not to many men look that way. I like a more refined look with a suit including dress shoes, pervably an Oxford . Nice video

[@40OverFashion]

Thanks Randy!

[@jicalzad]

i think it could go either way if you're an older guy, but perhaps those who look younger or have an athletic look as someone else posted earlier. But i'm with you, i'm 41, athletic/slim & i feel like i've outgrown the sneaker/suit look even though i did it well into my 30s.

[@alexm9271]

Thank you for your channel, your ideas & input on men’s fashion & allow me to say that you are one of the few (if not the only one) that encourages guys to “go for it” if it makes you feel good or if you think you can pull it off. There are so many channels that do the opposite, yeah they give their opinions etc but it really feels or comes out as “do what I say ‘cause I’m the expert”. Maybe because mostly are pushing products? Idk but with you it feels like taking advice from a buddy who genuinely has the best intentions with you looking the best. Thank you once more, keep up the good work & much success in your endeavors.

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you Alex! Much appreciated!

[@rj9617]

A seersucker suit with white dress sneakers and no socks might look pretty hip. Could I pull off that look? It's doubtful.

[@FlatcapHobbit]

38 here, and I definitely won’t do sneakers with a suit unless I’m in recovery for something. With a nice casual sport coat however some plain white sneakers can look damn good, very sprezzatura.

[@KlausKokholmPetersen]

Whenever you want to! I only wear dress shoes on the rare occasions when I wear a blazer, which is no more than 2-4 times a year. I will however wear sneakers/trainers with dress pants without the blazer.

[@richiel7771]

I am 40 and sometimes wear white “dress sneakers” with suits and dress trousers and get compliments on the look all the time. I have an athletic build and my clothes are fitted/tailored, so that probably helps. The trick is to have your pants tapered with no break.

[@jasonsandusky9582]

I have been hesitant about getting a pair of white shoes but I went to Dillard’s today and tried on a pair and then bought them.

[@Mohamedalijama143]

Although I have many sneakers, I prefer loafers most of my casual moments. Thanks John!

[@SimonChambers]

Thanks for the advice, John! In particular I liked the comments on wearing a suit with sneakers- very well articulated!

[@drevil1970]

Hi from the UK John, totally agree with you on the sneakers with a suit look, I've noticed over here in the UK and Europe that a lot of soccer coaches (e.g. former Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane) and TV pundits (e.g. Graeme Souness) have been going for this look over the last 12-24 months (Souness is nearly 70 years old). It seems a bit flavour of the month for me to be honest.

[@frankg-f4812]

I think a good fashion sneaker looks great with casual linen trousers, a t-shirt or polo, and perhaps a light jacket (some could pull off a light, unstructured blazer). It does tend to be a younger look, but with elevated pieces (good quality and tailoring), I think those of us in our 50’s who prefer a more classic style, can still rock it. Thanks for another great video, John. Looking forward to the next one!

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you Frank!

[@ORIGINALDaveB]

You bring up an interesting point as this seems to be the trend. I'm no fashion guru by any stretch of the imagination, but personally I feel sneakers with a suit is a definite no. With a sport coat, jeans even a tie I'd do low profiles. Here is my issue: I don't go out enough to enjoy my Allen Edmonds and other shoe collection enough as it is. So what's more important? Hopping on the latest trend or enjoying your shoe collection? For this former Biker the decision is an easy one. Great Vid John. Sorry I missed it 3 months ago.

[@PilotVolunteer]

Hello 40 Over Fashion, my age is 69. I am an active firefighter/EMT in Maryland. I enjoy your videos. I am a strong believer in dressing your age. I graduated away from t-shirts years ago. I prefer starched collar shirts. I purchased the collar helpers that you suggested. I prefer real shoes, not sneakers. I wear sneakers on the treadmill or out for a walk. Please keep up the good work. I am also a FD Covid vaccinator at the mass vax site in Maryland.

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you for your service!

[@Larry-qz3es]

At the age of 60, I still wear sneakers, but nothing flashy and colorful. Minimalist sneakers are good for those casual outfits with jeans, chinos, and khakis. Right now, I have my eye on a pair of brown footwear from Thursday Boot Company.

[@q-storm767]

I have come to discover over the past few months, I Love sporting dress sneakers!! Especially from Cole Haan and Rockports. Dressy yet comfy.

[@michaelcartledge5562]

I wear sneakers with all my dress shirts because I like the look but I don't think I would with a suit. I do think a lot of guys pull it off nicely! Liked the video and keep them coming 😀

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@paullucas7053]

Good sneaker advice, well stated. Thanks for sharing, keep up the good work👏🏻😎

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@adamkirby2570]

Great video/advice. I don't wear the "casual" suit/sneakers but I love that look on other guys...looks really good I think ( well, depending on the guy...lol)! Thanks John...have a great 4th friend👍🇺🇸

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you Adam!

[@daningram9797]

Hey John - I’m right there with you on when and when not to wear sneakers. I’ve got to draw the line with suits - just doesn’t work for me. Hope you’re doing well. Oh, and hope you’re getting some golf in!

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you Dan! Hope you’re well!

[@khairulhelmihashim2510]

classic athletic sneakers (adidas stan smith, puma suede, reebok club c 85, new balance 574 etc) can be a good casual substitute for boat shoes. Good quality polo and cropped khaki pants match well with these sneakers.

[@retrojorgen]

In Norway the rule is dress shoes aka leather shoes for suits. Every other occasion is sneaker or boat shoe. Most people wear sneakers to the office, and a lot wear athletic sneakers. It’s more about keeping them clean and toned down. Almost no one except upper level managers (who usually wear some form of a suit) wear leather shoes. It signals that you think you are better than other people.

[@retrojorgen]

And doing that is sort of frowned upon in Norway since we take pride in being a social democracy we’re everyone should have equal value :)

[@colindeans5972]

Nicely done John, thanks.

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you Colin!

[@keithosorio6301]

I wear dress sneakers a fair amount because my style tends to be casual. I still prefer a nicer shoe on weekend nights.

[@40OverFashion]

I’m right there with you!

[@juanarce6900]

I love dress sneakers, but not with a suit. It's just me, there are double monk straps, bluchers, oxfords, loafers, ...

[@luisrivas3509]

Awesome job John. My sneaker collection has gotten much better thanks to you. Keep up the great work.

[@jimrowe4177]

Great video John. Can you perhaps do a clip on sock color and appropriateness? Thanks and keep the great content coming!

[@albertpardo8076]

Loved the video, John. Thanks!

[@q-storm767]

1:53 like your adidas, John.👍🏿

[@gettingfitat5015]

Loving the videos...got a date with my wide this weekend and planning on black jeans, white t-shirt, and a black blazer...trying to decide on the shoes...your videos are a great help! Side note: what about bracelets as accessories?? I can't recall a video on the subject! ;-)

[@kwc7391]

I just got two pair of DRESS sneakers (like you show on the video white and tan). I am 70 year old. Is it still ok for jeans and shorts? I am 5' 9" tall, at about 165 pounds. NOT fat at all!

[@40OverFashion]

Absolutely!

[@e815usa]

John, if you can point me to a good black casual leather sneaker (either low top or high top) for WIDE/extra wide feet, then I will praise you forever. My problem is finding a pair that will fit me comfortably, IF they even exist! So for now, until that happens, I will have to rock my gray Saucony running shoes! Sorry but that's a fact of life for us men with wide or extra wide feet. Medium shoes don't fit the bill, so to speak. I've been doing this treasure hunt for a while and have not struck gold. I have come close, but no cigar yet.

[@40OverFashion]

I’ll keep my eyes open for you!

[@BobsCreativeDays]

Sneakers with a suit, not for me. Even in my twenties and thirties I would not have done it. Personally I just can’t get on board with the look. Otherwise I love wearing sneakers in a casual or semi-casual setting, with jeans, chinos or even a nice pair of linen slacks. I will even wear sneakers to the office, and I work in the legal field. Like you said John it all depends on the type of sneaker you wear and the confidence with which you wear them. Have a great week. And happy 4th of July weekend !

[@40OverFashion]

Thanks Bob! Have a great one!

[@rhemarmatalog7158]

@@40OverFashion sa sa zzzz Za

[@tedwilliams765]

I agree

[@GenX6887]

I just turned 36 a few weeks ago and nowadays, I find myself wearing sneakers during the warm months and cowboy boots during the cool months.

[@mjjenkins8678]

Great video as always thank you

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you for watching!

[@81runaway]

I only wear sneakers and runners.Theres nothing wrong with wearing sneakers at 40+ it states that you have aerobic tedencies..but ofcourse formal events are different!!

[@40OverFashion]

Absolutely! Thank you for commenting!

[@bertram46]

Well I'm always a day late and a dollar short commenting on your videos however I couldn't agree more wearing any kind of tennis shoe with a suit in my opinion is not appropriate and when I see a good looking 20-year-old wearing tennis shoes with a suit honestly I'm not jealous because I was 20 years old then I just think he doesn't know enough to know what's appropriate in to be sophisticated enough and he didn't have someone to help guide him. That's my take. I can't wait even though I'm old to go back to wearing a suit to work it is so professional and Polished

[@FragsInHand]

What color sneakers you wearing with the burgundy chinos in this video John? i cant tell

[@BillijeanS442]

Thanks!

[@MikeWilliamsNZ]

I'm trying to decide between black (white soles) and white sneakers. What do you think is more versatile?

[@40OverFashion]

Oh man…. It’s like 50/50. White will be better for daytime and black will be better for evenings. It’s a tossup but I would probably go for white.

[@Manuel421]

After loafers and Cap Toe Oxfords what dress shoes would you recommend next? Originally I was going for a pair of Wingtips but instead found a Cap Toe. It does have some broguing but not as much as a full Brogue so not sure if I can still wear them casually with chinos but I would assume that it's fine. Excellent content as always and very informative! Honestly I'm one of your younger supporters but still appreciate the value you provide as I continue to upgrade my wardrobe. It's not about age necessarily it's about wanting to upgrade and feel confident and comfortable with yourself and the clothes you ultimately decide to buy. Your target audience though is definitely lucky to have you as a lifestyle coach much love!

[@05Rudey]

I believe, when people normally think "Sneakers" they think of running shoes, or the sneakers teenagers wear on a day to day basis like Nike Air, Steve Jobs New Balance etc. They are loud, juvenile and IMO look tatty really quickly. I don't think people really think about the Minimal Sneaker, that are just as smart looking, age appropriate on an older gent as a pair of Boat Shoes, Driving Mocs or Loafers. In fact, they can be plainer. I lusted over and nearly got a pair of Grenson Sneaker1 in White a few years back, ended up on getting a pair of Chukka Boots from the same company at the same price because I knew I would wear the boots far more in a casual setting. I decided in my mid 30's to stop wearing sneakers as a casual wear, mainly due to spending most of my Childhood, Teens, 20's and some of my 30's pretty much living in them. I have no problem with older men wearing then, they are just not my thing anymore. I actually know a few people who are close to 60 who still rock sneakers similar to that @1:45 and large print T-Shirts and it suits them. It's just not for me.

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you for commenting!

[@marcogonzalez5872]

Regards from Tijuana, Baja California Mexico my friend!

[@MichaelJohnson-vi6eh]

You were talking about shoes today. THANKS. I may be noticing a trend toward a more European style (no shoes indoors) thing. I am going to be buying some no show socks soon. Are they OK to be seen, or should I go with a grey or a black tube sock instead?

[@40OverFashion]

Mine are all mostly black.

[@ronm6585]

Thanks John. 👍🏻

[@flfbsphatboyblue8970]

They are nice sneakers but, I’ll stick with my Sperry Boat shoes when I want a light weight casual shoe.

[@jameswise8396]

Another great video

[@RobinsWatchJourney]

Good advice, as usual.

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@davidwolf8985]

Maybe a dumb question. But what kind of socks do you wear when wearing “nice” sneakers with jeans or khaki pants?

[@tedwilliams765]

When you going to do a video for us in our 70tys that still like to dress? I can't stand sneakers with a suit!!

[@Mark-rd1it]

I’ve never liked sneakers with a suite, not even when I was in my twenties. I have never liked the look on anyone. Even when women wear a nice dress and wear it with sneakers.

[@edward57343]

How do i keep my snickers clean and white around the edges i really need your help

[@nbibill]

You're doing great!

[@joealeman9762]

Thanks for the video! Question: what is the best way to care for a shade shoe?

[@joealeman9762]

oh wow! sorry suade shoes

[@triktrak_1451]

Hi John. What brand are the sneakers at 3:29?

[@bagery]

I know this is an older video but it popped into my recommendations, so I wanted to add to it. I don't like sneakers with suits. Maybe don't like is strong. I think it takes away prestige, depending on the look. And certainly a person can do what they want. I work in tv news and the guys on air, sales or whatever that normally command respect, even if you've known them a while, it's knocked down their stature. We've got a young guy that lucked into a big position and he still wears dress shoes and great sculpted suits which brings him up quite a bit, even though he's almost half the age of a lot of staff. We had the mayor in for an interview and on video, he seemed like kinda a pushover. When he entered the building in his suit, dress shoes, and good cologne, I found a new respect for him. He was much different off air and had an air of importance. I could see how he became mayor of an important US city. Just what I'm seeing though. I'm only one opinion. Folks may say they don't care just like a woman who thinks dressing her fella like a big kid is cool but I think it may be a more subconscious thing whether people dig it or not and how they see you. But if you don't care about any of that, just wear what you want!

[@Jebro439]

Dress sneakers I can roll with that.

[@RobS32]

Great tips as ever. Cheers amigo 👌

[@TuneinR]

I am 50 and i dont wear sneakers.Not my thing.I prefer loafers but i enjoyed seeing others with sneakers if they do it right like @ 40 Over Fashion.

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@stefanatchia2467]

Many thanks, great advice!!

[@thabomboneni2994]

I’m 41 but I still wear Jordan’s and AirForces, granted I look like I’m in my mid/late twenties and my body is lean from working out but I would never ever wear a suit with sneakers.

[@javierhenao563]

Not all suits are designed to be worn with sneakers, maybe a linen two button suit could work, I think that makes it more casual, worn with a vneck or round neck t-shirt.

[@mikemikecohen]

I would never wear sneakers of any sort with a sport coat, suit and/or tie. Why? The answer is really twofold in my mind: I think it would be inappropriate and even more importantly I think there are so many other better choices. For example, suede tie shoes available in a spectrum of colors or slip-ons. (loafers)

[@Kiboko-ko9qs]

Hey John! I'm 62 and have been wondering about a common phenomenon - Men & Flip Flops! I mean, wherever I look Flip Flops. For me no NO !! NOT ONLY are these things bad for your feet (except at the beach) they look way out of place. Plus Men, some of your feet look like you dig up your back yard 😂 What is your take John - am I out of line?

[@40OverFashion]

Not in public besides the beach.

[@jack.charlesc4750]

If not in a office white snearkes white shirt jean and blue sport jacket with white pocket square is ok maybe in the south riviera we are more casual .....but you have to be slim not overweight otherwise it won t do the trick

[@jcj68]

John, what's your opinion about the knit or leather oxfords like those from Cole Han, that many brands have now? I think those would fall in this category as well since they generally have a white sole and look like a sneaker. Thanks

[@digiartist]

i love this guy!

[@ronedwards8239]

There are plenty of dress sneakers for suits. I own multiple pairs.

[@bigneon_glitter]

Sharp jeans 👖 in the thumbnail. What brand/style are they?

[@40OverFashion]

Both from Express

[@wallyg77]

Imo I think a suit with sneakers works as long as the fit is right, no tie and the suit is the right material like cotton or linen

[@40OverFashion]

Great point!

[@wallyg77]

@@40OverFashion Thanks John!

[@dr.abhishekpanday6274]

Really a nice vedio...love to see ur vedios

[@shepleonard8695]

New Balance 993 in gray

[@renevemica2861]

Great advice thx

[@juanherrera7124]

Good video!!

[@jarradhurley4866]

I'm 34, but I would have no problem dressing the way you do right now. Can you just sort my warddrobe out for me so I don't have to think? Cheers. HAHA

[@charnelveil669]

I'm a 47 year old Musician, so I say hell yes to Sneakers and Suits!!!!!

[@blindthief]

I definitely like canvas shoes (are they sneakers?) with crisp jeans, a nice tshirt, and a blazer on top. That's a classic look that any man of any age can pull off. Of course you wouldn't wear this to a job interview but you get the idea. I'm 43 and I find that you really don't need to walk around in dress/fancy shoes all the time. In fact, I pull them out only for formal events. I mean just look at 40ish male celebs when they are out in public - they're usually wearing sneakers, jeans, a tshirt, and a baseball cap.

[@martintanz9098]

I actually disagree that it is a classic look that any man can pull off. Rather, that look (jeans with a t shirt and blazer, and sneakers) strikes me as a look that kind of comes and goes. Put another way, I think this is a look that can look very fashionable, or very out of fashion, depending on the man, and his level of confidence. I remember Tom Cruise rocking this look in Risky Business, along with Ray Ban sunglasses. And a whole bunch of younger guys followed. Then it went away and came back in the early 2000s. I remember rocking this look maybe in the early 2000s, but I was younger then, like in my early 30s. But even then, I wore dress shoes, not sneakers. Now that I am over 50, I wouldn't even do that anymore. Now don't get me wrong. I am not criticizing. If you have made this your signature look and it works for you, then go for it.

[@jrkline4750]

Dress sneakers, should? Or not, be worn with socks or without? or what are the”NORMAL” rules.

[@40OverFashion]

Take your pick, either or. Most will prefer to wear full socks.

[@jrkline4750]

I saw you wear (sometimes) those tiny sock or below the ankle. What do you name them and where to buy them. Those seem to be the answear

[@evaldorank7375]

I usually wear sneakers with a suit. And I feel good and elegant. Of course I wear them, Just when I go out for dinners or to work. But I prefer dress shoes for a formal ceremony. I like tô wear suits with t-shirt and sneakers. In my opinion, perfect match!

[@40OverFashion]

Thank you!

[@ttop64]

Hi John. I can't think of his name right off hand but that guy on the CBS morning show is almost always wearing sneakers with a suit. BTW with the July 4th holiday coming up you could slap some red laces in those blue and white Ace Marks and be ready to roll . ; ) Peace . : )

[@40OverFashion]

Yes! Absolutely!

[@q-storm767]

I know who you are talking about. It's Tony Dokoupil of CBS This Morning 🙂.

[@ttop64]

@@q-storm767 Yeah . Thats's the guy. Thanks.

[@minkles1330]

I'm 47 and still seem to wear my Vans, I get a new pair every 5 years or so

[@bebesboutique5883]

Hi I've just tried the discount code and it's not working,any clues. Thanks 👍🏿

[@40OverFashion]

I just tested it and it works just fine.

[@bebesboutique5883]

Thanks John, I've got it working I'm a new subscriber following from the UK and loving your content.

[@hatimadil224]

Stylish as usual

[@apadora]

I grew up wearing converse sneakers but now in my 50s I would never ever wear them ;-)

[@rudyhendra2190]

I like your content; really learned a lot. But going to have to disagree with you on the sneakers. I’m ok with sneakers with suits or whatever you stated was a “no, no.” Just ask Robert Kraft, Skip Bayless, Shannon Sharpe, etc…. Ok to wear any type of sneaker which doesn’t have to be black or white.

[@peterwinstonaldredge6927]

I have to admit I am terrible at picking out the right shoes to wear! I basically have one pair of everyday casual shoes and one pair of everyday dress shoes. Both black, very basic.

[@melbman43]

Sneakers with a suit, come on man, even with my summer sports jacket its still a no no.

[@ceemihail]

For me it's a no. I must continue to give wearing a suit the respect it deserve to remain classy, gentleman type of wear for professional and elegancy.

[@tedwilliams765]

I don't get it,put on a nice suit and ruin the outfit with sneakers.

[@tedwilliams765]

Agree

[@OldNavyGuy]

As an older guy wearing a suit with appropriate dress shoes, I doubt anyone with a sense of style is saying, “I wish he was wearing dress sneakers.” It doesn’t go.

[@kevinmccauley4869]

I am 44 and wear air max 90 and 95. Nothing wrong with that. These are meant to be walking the streets, not training.

[@thullraven1]

I wear sneakers with my jeans. That's it. If I'm getting even remotely dressed up, or in slacks of any kind, I put on a pair of my black western boots. I have four sets to reflect various types of situations. I don't own dress shoes, and don't plan on changing that. Not my style.