Today’s article focuses mainly on younger guys who want to look more stylish on a budget. If you’re interested in learning how to look stylish without breaking the bank, you’ve come to the right place. This article will teach you how to maintain a classy and up-to-date look on a budget. So let’s get started with the list.
Tips to Dress Better on a Budget as a Man
To dress better for less money, a man can focus on a few key strategies. First, thrift stores offer affordable options and unique pieces. Second, sales and clearance racks provide discounted items. Third, mix and match existing clothing items creatively.
Finally, prioritize fit and grooming to enhance any outfit without breaking the bank. For the full list, read along:
1. Don’t Wear Trendy Pieces
I know that buying new clothes is always a great feeling. However, at Midway Gentleman, we highly recommend forgetting about trendy pieces if you want to look more classy and put together with a tight budget.
Certain clothing items have been around for decades – like plain white T-shirts, denim jeans, leather jackets, suits, etc. These have all stood the test of time, making them a reasonable investment. The list could go on and on – there is a wide selection of timeless items you can purchase for the long run.
On the other hand, if you buy trendy pieces, they may not be in trend in a year or two, and you will not want to wear them. It is not only bad for the environment but your wallet as well. Long story short, a gentleman should wear timeless clothes.
2. Look Out for Online Sales
Shopping online is becoming more common every day. You can easily search for clothes you like, compare them with different items and brands, and find the best deals.
Nowadays, there are downloadable browser extensions that will help you find the best offers and price movements, so you don’t have to worry about getting the best price.
3. Use Coupons
The next point is strongly related to the previous one. In the digital age, there are not only a few ways to find and compare online sales but also numerous coupons available.
Similarly to online sales, there are apps, plugins, and websites specializing in checking for coupons. You can easily find new coupons to save you a few bucks on your next purchase.
4. Buy Long-lasting Clothes
It feels like I am repeating myself, but one of the easiest ways to spend less on clothing is to buy fewer clothes. Maybe that sweatshirt or t-shirt seems a couple of dollars more expensive than a cheaper alternative, but it may look good for twice as long.
High-quality clothing usually lasts more than lower-priced, fast-fashion items. If you buy high-quality clothes and take care of them, they may be fine for a lifetime.
5. Invest in Basics
One of the simplest ways to build a versatile wardrobe is by purchasing essential clothing pieces. These items can be easily mixed and matched to create numerous outfit options.
For instance, having a black or white T-shirt and a pair of dark or light-washed denim jeans can offer a multitude of outfit alternatives.
6. Pick Second-hand Items
Buying second-hand items has become a trend lately, and we couldn’t be happier about it. Although it can feel uncomfortable for some, there’s nothing wrong with buying second-hand items.
It is another great tip that is not only beneficial for your wallet but also for the environment. Somebody’s old items can be someone’s new favorite. Look around in a local thrift store or online marketplaces. Who knows, you might find your new favorite piece.
7. Avoid Shopping with Credit Cards
Always use your credit cards wisely and always pay them back on time. Credit cards can be a great tool if you use them for the right purpose, but they can put you in a tough situation if you don’t do shopping with responsibility. Don’t buy unnecessary items with it.
Although clothes are an influential part of our lives, you have to pay for the necessary things first, such as a mortgage, food, and health – to name a few. Then you can focus on how you look. There is a famous saying – Cut your coat according to your clothes.
8. Audit Your Closet
First, go through your wardrobe and find which items you are wearing and not wearing. Second, if you’ve got a few pieces that are in good condition, but you are usually not wearing, try to sell them to make some extra cash or give them away for free to the less fortunate. Then, only buy new clothes when you have the space and need for them.
9. Fix Your Grooming
This point has nothing to do with clothes but can have a huge impact on your look. A fresh haircut and grooming can change your overall look. Women have makeup, while we men have beards – well, most of us, not including me.
If you are someone like me, your best bet is to always have a clean shave and a fresh haircut. Although it is not for free, it’s way cheaper than buying new clothes, and who knows, if you’ve got the skills, you can cut your hair and beard for yourself or ask a friend or relative to fix your grooming.
10. Find a Good Tailor
We said it many times previously, but one of the best ways to make your old clothes look new and bespoke is to find a good tailor who can make adjustments and fix your clothes to your body.
It will not only be cheaper than purchasing a new item but will look ten times better on you than any other off-the-rack item. That’s why semi-bespoke clothes are one of the best options for any man.
11. Start Wearing Accessories
Finally, the accessories. Believe it or not, accessories can have a giant impact on your style. Put on a stylish watch, and you instantly look more professional and trustworthy.
Put on some rings or bracelets, and your plain-looking t-shirt and jeans outfit will look memorable for others. That’s why we work with new brands that offer stylish accessories so everyone can find their style.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to dress smartly while keeping a tight budget is no easy task – but if you listen to the tips listed in this article, you will have a better chance of achieving it.
The main point is you don’t need to buy new clothes every week or month – there are certain times in the year when clothes are usually cheaper, like at the end of the summer or Black Friday. Find these dates and pick your new items at those times. I hope I could help with this article.
Keep on reading: How to Look Old Money on a Budget
