How to Upgrade Your Style in Your 30s (and Beyond)
Let’s be real—figuring out your style can take time. I know it took me a while. In my 20s, I was all over the place, unsure about what looked good, and, to be honest, I didn’t have the budget to build a wardrobe I was proud of. It wasn’t until I turned 29 that I finally started to feel like I had my style figured out. It was a game-changer.
Looking back, I may not have gotten everything “right,” but that didn’t matter. What mattered was how confident I felt once I started wearing clothes that actually suited me. The thing is, a lot of guys never get to that point. Some spend their whole lives feeling unsure about their style, and that’s a shame. But here’s the good news: you’re never too old to find your style, and it’s never too late to make a change.
Whether you’re 30 or 50, there’s no expiration date on experimenting with your look and evolving your wardrobe. I’m 35 now, and I feel better than ever. I’ve found my style, I’ve figured out my grooming, and most importantly, I’ve got a level of confidence I didn’t have when I was younger. That’s what I want for you, too. So, if you’re a guy in your 30s (or beyond) thinking you’re too old to try new things, I’m here to tell you that’s just not true.
Let’s get into how you can upgrade your style, feel confident, and start dressing in a way that reflects who you are today.
Step 1: Clean Out Your Closet
First things first—your wardrobe needs a refresh. There’s no point in trying to upgrade your style if your closet is full of stuff you never wear or don’t even like anymore. I guarantee you’ve got some pieces sitting in there that you haven’t touched in years, and it’s time to let them go.
Think about that jacket you bought a few years ago. You loved it at the time, wore it all the time, but now it just sits there, untouched. You’ve moved on, and it’s just a memory now. Holding onto it isn’t helping your style evolve—it’s actually holding you back.
Here’s a simple trick to figure out what to keep and what to ditch: hang all your clothes with the hangers facing the same direction. Every time you wear something, hang it back up with the hanger facing the opposite direction. After a few months, you’ll see exactly which clothes you’re not wearing. Those are the pieces you can donate or sell. Be honest with yourself. If you’re not wearing it, it’s just taking up space.
Cleaning out your closet not only gives you a fresh start, but it also opens up space for new items that you’ll actually wear and love.
Step 2: Be Intentional with Your Style
Now that you’ve cleared out the old stuff, it’s time to get intentional about what comes next. You probably clicked on this post because you’re ready for a change, but don’t just wait for inspiration to hit you at random. Take control of your style evolution.
Start by thinking about the kind of look you want to go for. Do you like street style? Are you more into classic, tailored looks? Maybe you’re drawn to something more edgy or fashion-forward. Whatever it is, figure it out. One of the best ways to do that is by following guys who already have the style you like. Whether they’re on Instagram, YouTube, or Pinterest, there are plenty of fashion-forward men to take inspiration from. This will give you ideas, but it’s important to stay true to what feels right for you.
Step 3: Find the Right Brands
Once you know the style you’re going for, it’s time to find the brands that fit the look. Each brand has its own aesthetic and fit, and what works for one person might not work for you. The goal is to find brands that fit you well, look good on your body type, and align with the style you’re aiming for.
A few things to think about when choosing brands:
- Aesthetic: Do you want a brand that screams street style? Something classy? Athleisure? You can have more than one look, but start with one and nail it before branching out.
- Fit: This is key. Finding brands that fit you well might take a little trial and error, but it’s worth the effort. You want clothes that flatter your body, not just stuff that fits.
- Budget: Don’t go broke trying to buy into high-end designer labels. There are plenty of affordable brands that offer stylish pieces without the massive price tag. Stick to your budget and focus on quality over quantity.
Also, a quick tip—don’t just buy the same shirt in every color because it fits. That’s lazy. Mix it up with a few different brands and pieces to keep things interesting.
Step 4: Build a Grown-Up Wardrobe
By the time you hit your 30s, your wardrobe should start evolving to reflect your lifestyle and aspirations. That means it’s time to upgrade from the graphic tees and hoodies of your 20s to something more refined. But don’t worry, it’s not about getting rid of everything casual—it’s about finding balance.
Start swapping out your basic t-shirts for polos. Polos are just as comfortable but look way more polished. Stick to classic colors like navy, white, and black, and make sure the fit is right—not too tight, not too baggy. Also, invest in a few linen shirts. Trust me, they’re perfect for summer, and they look much more put-together than a t-shirt.
For your bottoms, look at tailored trousers or chinos. You can still wear jeans, just make sure they’re a slim fit and not too tight. Skinny jeans are a trend that’s come and gone, so aim for something timeless that flatters your shape.
Step 5: Elevate Your Footwear and Accessories
You’ve got your wardrobe sorted, now let’s talk footwear. If you want to elevate your look, start with a pair of loafers. They’re the perfect blend of casual and classy, and they work with everything from jeans to suits. If loafers aren’t your thing, a pair of clean, white leather sneakers is another great option. They’re versatile and stylish without trying too hard.
Now, let’s get into accessories. Every man should own at least one good watch. It doesn’t have to be expensive, but it should be classic and understated. Go for a simple diver or leather strap watch—something timeless that suits your style. A nice, minimal necklace can also add a personal touch without being over the top. Rings are another way to elevate your look, but keep it subtle—a single ring can go a long way.
And finally, don’t underestimate the power of a good fragrance. A well-chosen scent can boost your confidence and leave a lasting impression. Find one that feels like “you,” but avoid anything that feels too young or trendy.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, upgrading your style isn’t about following trends or dressing like someone else. It’s about figuring out what makes you feel confident and comfortable. As you move through your 30s and beyond, your style should evolve with you. It should reflect where you are in life and where you’re headed. So don’t be afraid to experiment, clear out the old stuff, and invest in pieces that make you feel good.
If you take these simple steps—cleaning out your closet, being intentional about your style, finding the right brands, building a grown-up wardrobe, and focusing on the right footwear and accessories—you’ll be well on your way to feeling and looking your best. Remember, it’s never too late to level up your style.
If you read this article and want to upgrade style and become that guy. Click here now