MAN FRIDAY
PREMIER LEAGUE STYLE
Wmanager front is Pep Guardiola; the Manchester City boss has been crowned the most stylish coach in the world by none other than GQ magazine, with the 46-year-old acting as a fine example to older men of how to look sharp and polished but contemporary too. Known for his sleek, neatly tailored suits, he’s prone to adding a more relaxed spin by pairing his classic blazer and trousers with cashmere sweaters and cardigans over shirts, finished off with trainers – last year he donned a pair by edgy Parisian designer Rick Owens – and a jaunty scarf.
Of course, the torchbearer for all things football style-related is the aforementioned Beckham, who has arguably been the most influential figure on how modern men dress. The more outré offerings of his youth – spray-on leathers, high shine bling and effeminate silky tops – have been sidelined as he glides through his forties, in favour of exceptional tailored suits – always with an eye-catching tie – and rustic, solid outerwear; again, examples that any man of his age would do well to ape in their wardrobes.
Last year, Beckham announced his business involvement with Kent & Curwen, a historical brand known for creating sporting attire for the Oxford and Cambridge boat races. Under the creative directorship of designer Daniel Kearns, the label now focuses on handsome outerwear with nostalgic nods to its heritage. Beckham admitted he learnt lessons from his past style misdemeanours in advising on the collections.
Becks aside, take inspiration from the Instagram of Italian footballer Claudio Marchisio, who has been known to snap his Riviera ready ensembles, or Liverpool’s Daniel Sturridge who switches fluidly between elegant suits – worn with a knitted tie for a modern touch – with urban streetwear appropriate for his age. Not a questionable white suit in sight.