How to go grey gracefully

How to go grey gracefully

This week George Clooney was named Hollywood’s most gracefully ageing male, and we can’t say we’re surprised. He was joined on the list by other well-aged A-listers, including the likes of Brad Pitt and Matthew McConaughey. It’s fair to say that these three gentlemen are making all the right moves when it comes to ageing, but it’s not just good genes and a somewhat pampered life that has allowed them to age so gracefully. They’ve taken careful steps to maintain their image, and we think it’s time you know how they do it.

The first step to silver fox-hood is to avoid dying your hair at all costs, it’s very important not to fall into the awkward ‘denial and die’ attitude that weaker men often hide behind in later life (we’re looking at you Travolta). As it turns out, the masculine decision to let nature take its course is the stylish choice, as long as you can keep it in check.

Follow Clooney’s example here and keep your grey hair short at the sides, and slightly longer on top in a well-maintained side sweeps. And don’t let matters get out of hand, older men’s locks look better trimmed into a sharp style, think Pierce Brosnan and avoid Mad Professor.

As grey hair is naturally drier and more brittle, it’s important to give your shampoo and conditioner some thought. Look for ultra nourishing treatments from Kerastase or specially designed ranges for greying hair, such as Redken For Men Silver Charge. These will work to bring out the brightness of your greying hair and will help you to avoid any dull or yellowing strands.

Careful grooming is not the only key to going grey gracefully and it’s especially important dressing the part. Again, Hollywood pack of silver foxes lead the way, rarely seen in anything but a beautifully tailored suit or a carefully considered, yet understated, casual look. There’s no point in wearing your salt & peppered hair with pride and maturity if you’re going to let yourself down with sloppy tailoring and ill-fitting outfits.

No matter, if you’re still reaching for the hair dye and baggy jeans, and refusing to embrace your grey side, then take a look at a few of our favourite silver foxes…

George Clooney

Grey Hair - TGJ.03

Pierce Brosnan

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John Slattery

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Gianni Agnelli

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Samuel Beckett

Archives: The writer Samuel Beckett in France in April, 1997.

Further reading