With grey hair comes a need for refinement and style when partying with friends or office colleagues during the festive season. So, what advice can Grey Fox give to the older man of style, reaching middle age, who wishes to retain sprezzatura during this endless round of celebration? The following tips may or may not be based on many years of experience.
1. Treat yourself with some respect, don't start chatting up young women at the office party. You may think it's like this -
But, regrettably, it's going to look like this -
2. With grey hair comes a decreased tolerance for alcohol. If you have to drink a lot, drink plenty of water and eat something to line your stomach. You'll feel slightly better the next morning. Retain some self-control and self-respect while the younger guys make fools of themselves.
3. Be careful with that Christmas jumper. For seasonal knitwear with style consult the Grey Fox Ginormous Guide to Christmas Jumpers, coming later this week.
4. What's the dress code for the party? Dress appropriately. Black tie means just that; not flashing plastic bow tie or Paisley tie with brown suit. Smart casual means just that; open neck shirt and well-fitting clothes, not the gardening jumper and battered Converse sneakers. Smart means a tie with suit or blazer.
Don't dress younger than you are, it never works.
5. Dancing; well this is a difficult one. Once a man reaches 40 he has to take care on the dance floor (and see tip 1 above). If you're hopelessly unco-ordinated a sedate waltz will do the trick and can look quite cool with Queen's Radio Gaga.
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6. Don't be a bore. Move around and meet people, your maturity will give you the confidence to meet and greet. Ask people about themselves, avoid talking too much about yourself and your achievements.
7. Enjoy your seasonal celebrations.
