How to Dress Like a Grown Man

Co-authored by Tami Claytor

Last Updated: February 16, 2022 References

Simple, versatile, and well-fitting clothing is the key to dressing like a grown man. If it’s time to add maturity to your wardrobe, a tailored suit is a good start. Swap ratty tees for button-downs and crisp casual shirts, and throw away cargo and jean shorts. Invest in a wool overcoat and quality formal shoes that you'll wear for years. You might have to spend some money, but dressing well doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. Adult wardrobes are collected over time, so have patience and upgrade your closet gradually.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Buying Quality Clothing Staples

1
Invest in a well-tailored navy suit. From job interviews to weddings, a good suit is an essential part of an adult wardrobe. Go for a 2 button navy suit with thin lapels, and factor extra money for tailoring into your budget.^{[1]
X
Research source}
- Keep in mind a suit is super versatile, and can be broken up into separate pieces that can be worn in both formal and casual settings.
- Avoid sweaty synthetic materials, and go for a suit made of natural fibers, like cotton or wool.
2
Build up your button-down repertoire. White button-down shirts are great for any occasion. They can be paired with a good pair of jeans or worn under a suit jacket. Build a collection of button-downs starting with 2 or 3 in white, then add other colors, like blues, greys, and greens.^{[2]
X
Research source}
- Go for colors that fit your skin tone and style. As a general rule, lighter colors work best on darker skin tones, and darker colors work better on lighter skin.
- Make sure that your clothes are always pressed, wrinkle-free, and stain-free.^{[3]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Tami Claytor
  Etiquette Coach
  Expert Interview. 29 September 2020.}
Advertisement
3
Choose versatile dark denim in slim cuts. A grown man wears jeans that fit, so swap your baggy pants for well-fitting indigo denim in a slim cut. Dark denim is more versatile, and can be paired with your suit jacket for a business casual look or a crisp tee for less formal occasions.^{[4]
X
Research source}
- Stay away from baggy pants. You'll look more mature if you wear clothes that fit properly.^{[5]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Tami Claytor
  Etiquette Coach
  Expert Interview. 29 September 2020.}
4
Swap ratty old tees for crisp casual shirts. You don’t have to throw away your old band logo tees, but save them for when you're just hanging around the house. Buy quality white, black, and grey tees that fit snugly but aren’t too tight.
- Again, versatility is the key. A good tee can be worn under a jacket for a business casual look or with a nice pair of shorts when you’re just running errands.
5
Stay away from cargo, jean, and baggy shorts. Unless you’re on safari, stay away from shorts covered in pockets. A good pair of shorts should fit snugly, fall just above the knee, and should not be made of denim. Choose breathable materials, such as linen or seersucker and other loose cotton weaves.
- Wear a pair of shorts and a button-down to a brunch, barbecue, and other casual settings. Don't wear shorts to work or anywhere you'll be conducting business.^{[6]
  X
  Research source}

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Choosing Accessories, Outerwear, and Shoes

1
Buy a simple, sleek wristwatch. Few things say “I’m a grown man” more clearly than a good watch. Choose a metal analog watch (not digital) with a simple design.^{[7]
X
Research source}
- If you’re investing in a good watch, you’ll want to get plenty of use out of it. When in doubt, go for a cleaner, more conservative design. A flashy alligator skin strap might look gorgeous, but consider how many outfits and occasions it would match.
2
Start building a tie collection. Choose skinny ties, as thick ties with fat knots are dated. Ties can be an opportunity to show a little personality, but try to steer clear of kitschy designs.
- Choose a range of tie colors that will complement and contrast your suit. Solids and subtle patterns in cool blues are great for understated looks. Keep reds, pinks, and oranges on hand to pop against your navy suit and make more of a statement.^{[8]
  X
  Research source}
3
Get a wool overcoat. A wool peacoat is a must for cold weather climates. No grown man would head to a job interview wearing a beat up puffy coat with a sports logo.
- Start with a black pea coat, then add a tan winter coat and a light summer jacket when you can afford it.^{[9]
  X
  Research source}
4
Add class with winter accessories. A simple cashmere or wool scarf adds masculinity and class to any winter outfit. Choose scarves 6 to 14 inches (15 to 36 cm) wide and 60 to 70 inches (150 to 180 cm) long. Go for solid colors, like grey or blue, or an understated plaid or stripe.^{[10]
X
Research source}
- As for winter hats, just wear a simple black or grey skull cap or beanie.^{[11]
  X
  Research source} Just make sure you don't wear your hat indoors.^{[12]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Tami Claytor
  Etiquette Coach
  Expert Interview. 29 September 2020.}
- Bulky gloves look silly with a suit and nice overcoat, so go for a sleeker pair. While black leather is a good staple, it can be too formal for some outfits. If you can only get one pair, wool is a more versatile material.
5
Invest in quality black and brown leather shoes. Formal shoes can be an expensive investment, but splurging on a good pair is worth it. A good pair of leather shoes can last years if you care for them. The simpler their design, the more outfits and occasions they’ll match.^{[13]
X
Research source}
- Since shoes are a big investment, go for clean, timeless designs that will go with anything and won’t go out of style. You’ll need to start with pairs in brown and black. Over time, add brown and black boots to your collection.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Upgrading Your Wardrobe on a Budget

1
Have patience and improve your wardrobe gradually. Building an adult wardrobe takes time, so don’t feel like you need to drop thousands of dollars to upgrade your style overnight. Invest in one quality, long-lasting piece at a time. Eventually, you’ll have a closet full of sharp clothes, shoes, and accessories.^{[14]
X
Research source}
2
Make cuts elsewhere in your budget. Instead of going out for a night on the town, buy a shirt, pair of pants, or watch. Avoid impulse spending, and look for places in your budget where you can shift funds for your grown up wardrobe.
3
Look for sales and explore thrift stores. Find deals on seasonal items, like outerwear and shorts, and store them until next season. Consignment shops and thrift stores in wealthy areas are great spots to hunt for quality items at deep discounts.^{[15]
X
Research source}
- Check out designer outlets, too. Even if you’ve found a great online deal, avoid buying clothes online unless you’ve tried something on at the store first. If you do buy something without trying it on first, make sure there’s a good return policy.
4
Splurge only on classic clothes and accessories. When you dig deep into your pockets and splurge on a garment, make sure you’ll get plenty of wear out of it. For instance, a good, simple navy suit is a great splurge. On the other hand, you probably won’t wear a flashy suit in a crazy color very often.^{[16]
X
Research source}
5
Invest in wooden hangers. No more wire hangers! Good hangers will keep your garments crisp and extend their lifespan.^{[17]
X
Research source}
- Make sure you actually use your hangers instead of leaving your clothes in piles on the floor. In addition to preserving their quality, you’ll have less ironing to do if you hang your clothes.
6
Polish and condition your shoes. Buy a conditioner and cleaner labeled for your shoes’ material, and give your shoes some attention at least once a month. Taking care of your stuff is part of being an adult, and shoes can look sharp for years with proper care.