1. FIT COMES FIRST

An inexpensive shirt that fits beautifully will usually look better than an expensive one that doesn't.

As we get older, the shape that suited us twenty years ago isn't necessarily the shape that works today – and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that.

Don't become fixated on the size on the label. Concentrate on how the clothes actually fit.

A small alteration to a jacket sleeve or trouser length can completely change how an outfit looks.

2. CONTEMPORARY DOESN'T MEAN TRENDY

There's a big difference between looking current and following fashion.

You don't need oversized trousers, enormous trainers or whatever happens to be dominating social media this month to look contemporary.

Instead, pay attention to proportions, colours, fabrics and subtle changes in styling.

The objective is to look modern without looking as though you're trying to look 25.

3. BUY FEWER, BETTER THINGS

Quality becomes increasingly important.

Beautiful cotton, fine merino wool, cashmere, linen and well-made shoes don't just feel better – they tend to sit better and elevate everything around them.

A beautifully made Gran Sasso jumper or Eton shirt doesn't need an enormous logo to make an impression.

Understated quality does the work for you.

4. MASTER SMART CASUAL

This is where most men tell us they struggle.

The old rules were relatively straightforward: suit for smart, jeans and a polo for casual.

Today there's a huge area in between.

Try combinations like these:

• A knitted polo with chinos and loafers

• Dark jeans with a quality shirt and lightweight blazer

• Tailored trousers with a polo and overshirt

• A fine merino half-zip over a shirt

• Chinos with a premium T-shirt, lightweight jacket and smart trainers

The trick is combining pieces with different levels of formality rather than making everything match.

5. USE COLOUR – SELECTIVELY

Getting older doesn't mean your wardrobe has to become navy, grey and beige.

Colour can make an enormous difference, particularly in knitwear, polos and shirts.

Soft greens, pale blues, pinks, burgundy and richer seasonal shades can all work beautifully.

If you're uncertain, keep most of the outfit neutral and introduce colour through one piece.

6. DON'T FORGET THE SHOES

Good clothes can be completely undermined by the wrong footwear.

A pair of clean, understated trainers can modernise chinos or tailored trousers, while loafers or quality leather shoes can instantly smarten a more casual outfit.

Think of footwear as part of the outfit rather than something you decide on as you're walking out of the door.

FIND YOUR OWN STYLE

Ultimately, dressing well over 40 (and over 50, over 60…) isn't about rules.

It's about knowing yourself a little better.

Wear clothes that fit properly. Choose quality. Introduce enough contemporary styling to keep things fresh. And don't be afraid to try something slightly outside your comfort zone.

You should still look like you – just the best-dressed version.

If you'd like some help, contact us or book a private appointment HERE or just pop in to the shop - Westdaw Menswear, West Street, Dorking, Surrey. Our team offers straightforward, friendly styling advice with no obligation and no pressure to buy.

Because great style doesn't have an age limit.

7. BUILD A WARDROBE THAT WORKS TOGETHER

The best wardrobes aren't necessarily the biggest.

Before buying something, think about what you already own.

Does the new shirt work with two or three pairs of trousers? Can the blazer be worn with jeans as well as chinos? Can the jumper be worn over a shirt and on its own?

The more pieces that work together, the easier dressing becomes.

8. ASK FOR ADVICE

Menswear shops can sometimes be intimidating. They shouldn't be.

We're here to help - bring us a favourite pair of trousers, an old jacket you're trying to update or even a photograph of something you're dressing for.

At Westdaw Menswear, we'd much rather somebody said “I've got no idea what goes with this” than bought something they never wear.