Why is it that men like good wine can improve with age? The simple answer is that they become more stylish, more confident in themselves and they often have more leisure time to enjoy the fruits of their earlier hard labours. With age and wisdom a 60 something can be the best dressed man in town.

So what are the rules for the stylish 60s gentleman?

The first rule is that you should never raid your son’s wardrobe. The clothes he chooses are likely to be ‘fashion’, they will make you look like you are trying too hard, which is very aging!

The second rule is stay away from chain stores and go for quality rather than quantity. Less is more. Luxury cloth and a good cut hides a multitude of sins, the cut should flatter your shape and the colour should be chosen to suit your complexion. Plus, a high-quality well-cut garment will give excellent value for money and will last for ages.

Thirdly – you can go more casual. You don’t have to wear tailored suits all the time but can slip into a more casual, elegant combination of chinos, bespoke shirts and jackets.

Jackets – get rid of those dated suit jackets and opt for modern blazers. You can go for colour, not necessarily the Michael Portillo look (unless you are supremely confident and have a passion for continental train journeys), but strong colours are good – avoid black and go for all shades of blue, purple, grey and even pink (ask your tailor to advise you).

Suits – every man needs a couple of good suits in their wardrobe. If you aren’t wearing them every day a navy and a mid-blue or grey lightweight will see you through most occasions. Avoid black suits for daytime wear unless you are a funeral director – it is draining and therefore aging. You will also need a well-fitting dinner suit for black tie events, this can be midnight blue or burgundy if you like a bit of colour.

Shirts – unless you spend a lot of time at the gym, you may want to leave your casual shirts untucked – ask your tailor to make them the right length for how you will wear them (business shirts should be longer to avoid them coming untucked). Go for different textures and colours, for a casual look in summer, linen is perfect. Get them made-to-measure – off the peg is for young men, they should not only fit your neck, but your shoulders, waist and have the correct length arms. Your tailor will take several measurements and look at your body shape before advising you on the correct cut.

Trousers – go for straight legs – skinnies are for the young and baggies are great for really skinny showmen (think David Bowie in the 70s) if you have gained a bit of a tummy these will only emphasise your weight gain. Balance is the key and by having a good cut, you will look in proportion.

Coats – anoraks are for dog-walking! Modern padded jackets are great to put on when casual, but you might prefer a modern tweed. Tweed need not be the brown-green monstrosity that immediately springs to mind but can be beautiful colour mixes that are really versatile, working with everything from jeans and chinos to dressier wool trousers. You should also have a cashmere overcoat to wear in town. Here you get what you pay for and a good coat will last for ever, whilst exuding confidence and style.

Accessories – a good watch is essential. Shoes – brogues, Chelsea boots, deck shoes are all acceptable, only wear the white trainers on your visits to the gym. Finally, cashmere v necks to wear over your shirt, polo necks and polo shirts are a must.

Make acquaintance with a good tailor who will advice you. At Suit the City, we will be happy to help you put together a wardrobe that works for your lifestyle and budget.

If you want to talk to an expert in mens’ or ladies’ styling, call the office now and book a consultation. info@sixpennybutton.com