Online and store customers ask us this question all the time. “How do is make myself look better on a budget?” We get it and understand the concern. Here are some tips that every man should know for looking great on a budget.
1. Wear more color I’ve mentioned this in other articles–a great way to liven up your look is to incorporate more color into your wardrobe. Perhaps this is just a matter of wearing a brightly colored shirt under a v-neck sweater, or sporting a new shirt or sweater. Adding color will liven up otherwise dull neutral tones. But the most important thing is to wear color near your face since that is where it will have the most impact and keep you from looking washed out.
2. Seek Out a New Pair of Glasses/Sunglasses Glasses are a great way to express yourself and adding a nice but inexpensive pair adds a great deal to your look, even on a budget. The interesting thing about glasses is that you could simply be wearing jeans and a t-shirt, but with the right glasses you suddenly look fashion savvy.
3. Treat Yourself to One or Two Super Pieces Throw out the old and bring in a few new pieces that look great and go with a wide assortment of items. If you can possibly afford it, I believe in buying one or two great pieces that will really keep you looking stylish. This may be a cool sport coat, a leather jacket or an awesome pair of jeans that really show off your assets.
4. Sport a Snappy Belt Accessorize! Accessorize! Accessorize! Take a page from women here guys and add a belt or a new tie, anything that adds a nice touch but doesn’t break the bank.
5. Avoid Tattered Looking Shoes. Never, ever, ever wear torn or tattered shoes. Period! I’m not just saying that because we work at Arrowsmith Shoes. This is a fashion fact. Buy a nice pair of shoes or two and watch your attitude change. They don’t need to be $500+ just a few great pairs that you love.
6. Get a Groovy watch I have a friend who has a thing for watches. He likes to match them with what he is wearing, and he doesn’t spend a lot of money on them either. Since men don’t have many options when it comes to jewelry, this is a great way to express yourself as well as liven up your look. You can buy fun watches for under $100. Sure, it’s not a Rolex but you probably have an iPhone so what do you need a $15,000 for?
I hope this helps.
Craig
The American man has been taught that he can wear denim anywhere, so long as said jeans are dark, unadorned, and named things like the “New Standard.” No offense to anyone who designs jeans but you probably have your going-out jeans already. This spring, add a medium-blue pair to your arsenal, to wear on Friday or Saturday. Repeat until they get even lighter, nearly disintegrating. They’ll be soft — just like the suede shoes, washed cotton shirts, and tees you’ll want to wear all season with them.
