AARP Hearing Center
Dads used to be totally content getting a tie, cuff links or socks — but not in our dress-down, work-from-home world. Ditto for an espresso maker, whiskey glasses or a nice bottle of wine now that caffeine and alcohol are off the table for many men over 50. The clock is ticking toward June 18, but don’t panic. You can wow your pop and brighten his day with shorts, swimsuits, eau de toilette and more. If he’s ...
1. Casual
He’s laid back as ever but wears a smartwatch and earbuds and looks forward to weekends at the beach and tribute band concerts. Make his day with evolved basics — Wrangler Authentics Men’s Comfort Flex Waistband Jean Short in Sandstone ($27, amazon.com) with 2 percent spandex and a vintage wash for a cool look; ergonomic flip-flops such as OluKai Men’s Ulele Sandals in Slate Blue/Charcoal or Dark Wood ($80, zappos.com) with a soft toe post and arch support; and a hat with built-in sun protection such as the Coolibar Men’s Landon Reversible Bucket Hat UPF50+ in Stone/Carbon or Tan/Navy ($39, coolibar.com) so he can enjoy the great outdoors with way more coverage than the usual baseball cap.
2. Green
He’s gone all-out vegan and eco-conscious and donated his old stuff. Cheer on the new direction with gifts that care such as the super-soft Patagonia Men’s Tropic Comfort Natural UPF Crew in Steam Blue or Friend Green ($79, patagonia.com) made from renewable natural beech tree pulp, organic cotton and hemp; the Tentree Men’s Stretch Chino Short in Olive Night Green or Barley ($78, tentree.com); and a recycled nylon swimsuit such as Everlane’s The ReNew Swim Short in Green Balsam/Seagrass ($75, everlane.com) — water-repellent with the essential mesh liner grownup guys like.
3. Social
He’s a Facebook/Instagram devotee, texts friends and family morning, noon and night, and his backyard is a summer hub for neighborhood get-togethers. Give him screen-worthy upgrades such as the U.S. Polo Assn. Men’s Performance Pique Polo in Downtown Blue or Pool Green ($17, walmart.com), which has a relaxed fit that works tucked or untucked; the elastic Goodfellow & Co Men’s 8-Inch Everyday Pull On Shorts in Green or Khaki ($25, target.com) to flatter a post-winter belly; a beard/stubble groomer such as the Philips Norelco Men’s 360 Face Hybrid Electric Trimmer and Shaver QP2724/70 ($38, walgreens.com); and a woodsy scent with Sicilian lemon and cypress such as Dolce & Gabbana Men’s Light Blue Summer Vibes Pour Homme Eau de Toilette Spray ($84, macys.com) for guaranteed “you smell great” compliments.
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