It is said that life begins at 40 – so can a new, fashionable you. You’ve got your individual look and your wardrobe set, but now is the time to add some flair.

• The tailored suit – The work suit needs upgrading. The key to looking suave is to make sure your clothes fit well, not only to look good but to feel good. Because when you feel good, you naturally exude confidence. Blazers have come back into fashion, for men of all ages. A word of advice for the older man, double breasted blazers give off a graceful, members-club-only impression.

• Bow tie – Originally a modification of the cravat, the bow tie has now overtaken its predecessor in popularity and become a must have for the evening wear look. The neck tie is a standard accessory but a well put together bow tie will complement the ensemble and help you stand out from the crowd.

• Appropriate footwear – Trainers become harder to pull off the older you get. To remain trendy by not forcing the youthful image, invest in a pair of loafers or chelsea boots. Preferably suede for the former, it refines the look. However, if your heart is set on trainers, you can’t go wrong with the classic black or white style, avoid bright colours.

• Suspenders – Suspenders (or braces as they are also commonly known), used to be a practical choice. The alternative to a belt, they have since become trendy. The modern hipster puts suspenders with a t-shirt and jeans, but for the distinguished gentleman they go well with any variation of the tie and a smart shirt.

• Flat cap – The flat cap can be traced back over 500 years ago, and was mostly associated with the image of the working man. It has progressed over time and is now fashionable. Popular figures like David Beckham and Guy Ritchie changed public perception of the flat cap being the look for a cab driver. It is quintessentially British and adds some personality to finish off all of the above. 

The whole wardrobe doesn’t need a makeover, just a few simple changes. The tendency for men over a certain age is to over compensate and feel like they’re in a “mid-life crisis.” The trick is to grow into your style with maturity instead of trying to pull off the swag of your twenties. Instead of visiting memory lane look forward to being cooler than ever.

By Anuj Datta