Develop a 'personal style'.

You can still absorb pictures of McQueen, Newman, Kennedy, et al - there's nothing wrong with inspiration, and can still lead to a personal style.

In the beginners mind there are many possibilities, in the experts mind there are few.

Best to be a beginner in my opinion.  Keeps one humble and prepared to learn.

My primary concerns are to spark off debate and travel in varied directions.  Just because John Simons said this or The Ivy Look says that does not mean I'll necessarily mean I'll be in agreement, any more than I'll agree with somebody's political stance.  Besides, once you're over 50 you really tend not to give a flying fuck what others think.  I like a compliment from a lady on my seersucker jacket, but the mod thing about other guys admiring a new suit (or whatever) tends to leave me cold.  I think one has to imitate Enoch Powell and 'see through and beyond the Party', whilst, at the same time, giving quiet respect to precedent and tradition: not throwing the baby out with the bath water.  Then, as Chris H says, you can't turn back the clock.  John Gall, I think, would insist upon us moving forward. 
Perhaps Alex should name names.

There's no formula — just elements to be added and discarded as seems fitting. Don't be afraid to experiment. If it works, great. If it doesn't, well, now you know.