Your first year of retirement and your wardrobe
Short answer: When working life ends, everyday life changes, and so does what you need to wear. Many people discover that the wardrobe is full of work clothes, while the clothes they wear every day are worn out.
A new routine needs different clothes
In retirement many people spend more time at home, in the garden, on walks and with family and friends. Smart office wear such as suits and stiff shirts gets worn less often, while soft trousers, jumpers and good socks are used every day. The first year is a good moment to look at what you actually put on and let the wardrobe follow. Browse bamboo clothing for men if you want to look at soft everyday basics.
Go through the wardrobe
Take everything out and sort it into three piles. What you wear, what you might wear for special occasions, and what you no longer need. Keep a suit or two for celebrations and funerals, but ask yourself whether all those work shirts still need the space. Clothes in good condition can be passed on or sold. That frees up room for the clothes that suit your new routine and the way you now spend your days.
Comfort without looking sloppy
Many people want clothes that are comfortable yet smart enough for a visit or a trip into town. Chinos or trousers with an elasticated waist, plain T-shirts with a good neckline and a knitted jumper give a calm look. Bamboo viscose is soft against the skin, feels cool and drapes well, so it does not look baggy. Choose colours that go together, so getting dressed takes only a minute.
Clothes for activities
Many people gain more time for exercise, gardening and travel. Think about what clothing the new activities need. For walks, layering works best, with a thin base layer, a warm mid layer and a jacket that keeps out wind and rain. For gardening, sturdy trousers and a jumper that is allowed to get dirty are useful. For travel, clothes that do not crease much and dry quickly are practical.
Buy fewer but better pieces
When your income changes, it can be wise to shop with care. Buy a few pieces you wear a lot rather than many that hang unused. Look at the sale for men if you want to top up basics such as T-shirts and underwear. The brand Decoy is one example of a label with soft everyday pieces, and the material description tells you what you are getting.
Look after your clothes so they last
With more time at home, clothes can also get better care. Wash at lower temperatures when possible, turn clothes inside out and dry them on a line. That extends their life and reduces lint. Fold knitwear rather than hanging it, and store out of season clothing in boxes so the wardrobe does not become overcrowded.
Frequently asked questions
Should I get rid of my work clothes
Not all of them. Keep a couple of smart outfits for special occasions and pass on the rest.
What clothing works for walks
Layers. A thin base layer, a warm mid layer and a windproof jacket.
How can I make clothes last longer
Wash at a low temperature, inside out, and dry on a line.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
