Dress Your Age: 30s

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Being 30-something is the stylistic equivalent of purgatory. Somewhere between university and kids, men have managed to mistranslate the rigorous responsibilities of adulthood into a wardrobe devoid of any flavour. Before you know it, your collection of what was once kick-arse clothing boils down to nothing more than David Cameron jeans, T-shirts that come in triple value packs, and a single Men’s Warehouse-size suit reserved for weddings and funerals.

Luckily, there’s hope. You’re mature enough to know the fundamentals (or at least be a quick study for a brushup) yet young enough to benefit from a whole host of intermediate-level advice. Last time we explored how to dress your age: 20s, now let’s focus on your 30s.



the guide: 30s

Have a competitive edge

Invest in special items

Develop a signature style

Distinguish your duds

Somehow after years of experimenting, perhaps you’ve arrived at a disappointing mix of OK men's jeans , crusty polos and a nondescript suit. Needless to say, a man’s 30s can mark the start of style suicide. You’re still young (even if you’re pushing the big 4-0), so despite the fact that you may have settled in on a clean-cut, corporate look, remember that venturing outside the box once in a while with vintage finds like a tee or vintage watch is more than acceptable — it’s essential.The devil is in the details this decade, and chances are your closet is aching for some spice. With a foundation of basics that’s rock solid (given that you renovate from time to time), you’re ready to pile on the pricey stuff — like that £500 briefcase. But before you let the sticker shock set in or the floodgates open on your bank account, remember that it only takes a few pieces to pump up your wardrobe. That is, after all, why they’re special.The time is ripe for developing a unique identity with your clothing. And it’s not always about dishing out money (though that doesn’t hurt). If nothing else, a few more years of experience should have taught you that cash can’t buy taste. Maybe it’s monogrammed shirts, suit jackets with patterned lining or an inherited piece of jewelry you’ve decided to dig up. Pick your poison, because these are the details that make you,You have versatility down to a science. The blue blazer that does double duty at the office and after-hours has become your all-purpose uniform. What’s next? Developing distinct wardrobes for work, play and every occasion in between. We’re not saying that you shouldn’t mix and match for maximum utility. Splitting up a suit is old news. But the danger in your 30s is this: blending every aspect of life into a single, styleless mess. Instead, begin defining separate wardrobes based on your needs and keep a handful of crossover pieces to bridge the gaps.

What to wear in your 30s? That's next...