Can We Recognize a Midlife Crisis in Changes in How We Dress?
Our evolving dress codes as we age.
Grandad
My grandfather used to work as a glassblower for a large multinational company that produced electronics and lighting products.
Although I never had the chance to meet him during his working years, I remember him wearing a formal suit and tie whenever I visited his home after he retired — a slightly shabby, ill-fitting suit, but still a suit.
He would only take off his tie indoors on a warm day, but as soon as he stepped outside, he would put it back on again.
At that time, most older men wore suits, so I associated my grandfather’s clothing choices with being old-fashioned and slightly outdated.
I wondered whether older people might wear suits to cover their bodies as they age — a sartorial diversionary tactic.
Dad
My father only wore suits to work and looked really good in them. But you would never find him in a suit during evenings and weekends. I only have a few pictures of him wearing one, and that was only for official occasions.
As a kid, I thought he wore the suit to look older.
