What’s behind Brad’s multicoloured midlife makeover: Psychologist decodes the new look he’s embraced after turbulent divorce and alcohol struggles

At 62, Brad Pitt is undergoing a (late) midlife makeover. Long gone are the days when the all-American 90s heart-throb accessorised with leather jackets, cargos and a white T-shirt. Now, the Hollywood star, best known for his role in Fight Club, has adopted a brighter and more oversized wardrobe.

Some of his recent standout looks have included a striking blue velvet blazer, tie-dye bottoms and flashy bright yellow trainers. The star has even enlisted the support of Timothée Chalamet’s stylist, Taylor McNeil. Supposedly after a lifetime of buying fancy cars there’s little appeal for a splashy midlife motor, a neon green shirt will have the same effect.

Brad’s girlfriend since 2022, Ines de Ramon, might also have something to do with the A-lister’s midlife fashion change. Twenty-nine years his junior, the jewellery designer has helped to breathe new life into Brad’s style, with recent photos even showing the actor sporting rings and bracelets.

But while Brad’s girlfriend has certainly had an impact on his fashion sense, psychologist Phil Macleod suggests that the star’s difficulties over the past few years could be another possible reason for the Brad’s fashion reboot.

Mr Macleod said: ‘To me, as a psychologist, this signals a possible desire for reinvention and a way of taking back control of his identity after his recent reported troubles and struggles with his private life.’ 

Brad Pitt’s divorce from former-wife, Angelina Jolie, was an eight-year saga that only ended in 2024. Throughout the process, Brad faced abuse allegations from his former wife; allegations he has denied and which have not resulted in criminal charges. Now, most of the couple’s six children have dropped Brad’s last name with some sources suggesting that he has little contact with them. 

So, with the past few years full of stress and drama, is it really any wonder that the star would want to distance himself from his old style and embrace something entirely new? According to this psychologist, it makes complete sense. 

Mr Macleod said: ‘Sometimes changing how we present ourselves can change what people focus on, and even how we see ourselves. 

‘Changing your outward appearance can help a person reconnect with their old self and regain a sense of confidence, freedom and a new mindset. It’s something they can take control of when other areas of their life may feel beyond their control.’

And there’s even more reason to suggest that Brad’s fashion switch-up might actually reveal something more about his psychology and state of mind. 

In a recent interview with Esquire, Brad revealed that he has recently begun drinking again. This comes following several years of sobriety after the star spent 18 months in Alcoholics Anonymous following his split from Angelina Jolie in 2016. Given that the star says that he’s now ‘back on the wagon’, this might give further explanation for his cheerier fashion outlook.

For Mr Macleod, the star’s new fashion sense can definitely be considered as a signal for his renewal. He said: ‘There could also be an element of wanting to recapture his youth, but not necessarily to look younger, I would assume it to be reconnecting with a time in his life when things may have felt happier, simpler and less complicated and more in control.’

So, while there’s little way to know for certain how far Brad’s new wardrobe is a midlife crisis or signal for renewal, it’s most definitely more than just a new clothing haul.