You get what you pay for - Don't break the bank

So not everything you purchase needs to cost you a lot. Some things you will wear all the time will get worn out no matter what you pay. Also, some items you might not wear much at all so spending a lot might not sound like a great idea. Here are some items you can get away with spending a little on and still look fly:

Polo shirts

Express sells a plain front polo without any of that lion crap stitched over the pocket. They are made of stretchy cotton that fits the body well. About $30 bucks. I usually pick up 3-6 of these in whatever colors they have each summer; 2 or 3 are black because I wear them most. They wear out in a year if you wash them a lot but worth the price.

Style note: Polo's should fit you. Sleeves should end mid-bicep not at the elbow and the length should be just below your belt. Finding a cut that isn't too boxy is a challenge for broad shouldered dudes like me so when I find one I stick with it. They stretch out, fade the color in the wash and eventually look like crap. Know when it's time to retire the shirt. Chances are if you've had it more then a year and a half, it's done.

Oh and put down your fucking collar!

Khakis

Personally I don't really wear them. I have a pair because it seems to be a prerequisite here in Dallas and I like to fit in, sometimes. When I moved to Manhattan after college I made it a point to get rid of all my Khaki pants and never wear them again. That said, this is one of those items that doesn't need to be Armani (though mine are, whatever). You can find a decent pair at Banana Republic, Brooks Brothers or even Gap for a decent price.



Style note: Get them tailored to fit you perfectly, keep them pressed and they will look like you dropped some coin. People will let the press on Khakis slide because they are usually viewed as causal pants. Don't let that happen. It looks sloppy and brings the class down.

No pleats, no cargo pockets, please!


Additional advise on saving money on your wardrobe and still look great:

Buy that special, unique item at a thrift store. This is not for everyone but those of you who have the patience for doing a little digging can find some gems at second hand shops. This piece of advice came from designers, Barker Black (a kick ass label). One of the lead designers favorite piece of clothing is a thrift store bought, vintage Brooks Brothers suit. He bought it a size or two too big, brought it to his good tailor and had it fit around him. He got old world quality and perfect fit at a fraction of the price.

This advice can be put to sale items. Say there is a great piece on sale but it's a size or two too big. If you have that trusted tailor you can make that piece work. Remember, you can always make something smaller and fit better if you have something to work with.

Ultimately, whatever you chose to buy look for quality, cut and how it fits on you. Don't make excuses because it was "cheap".