Italian influences in an older or middle-aged man's search for style

Why is it that Italian men look stylish, even when they are older and middle-aged, in ill-fitting suits, chain-smoking, or wearing their wristwatches over their shirt cuffs? I suppose suntans and neatly-coiffed hairstyles help, as does the impression that they're dressing to impress their mothers (who still iron their shirts for them) or younger women (who probably don't). Whatever, I'm envious - well, a bit envious.

Anyway, one of my favourite recent finds is Italian Industrialists and Intellectuals Style - not the most catchy or grammatically correct title, but one that oozes tongue-in-cheek fun and comment. I've unashamedly taken these photos from there to give a flavour. Like it or hate it, Italian style shines through and you can take the best bits and leave the worst, as your choice and taste dictates. I know I have.