Friday, June 17, 2016

A Guy's Guide to Fashion: How to Update Your Style for Under $100

If you're still wearing last year's loafers or sporting neckties from the 1990s, then it's time to refresh your wardrobe. The good news is that guys on a budget can swap out all their old styles without cleaning out their wallets. The key is acquiring specific clothing items that work hard toward updating your entire look — and savvy customers can find these garments for under $100. Recycling old clothing and choosing versatile pieces are easy ways to stay on budget and look great doing it.

Give New Life to Hand-Me-Downs
If a huge shopping spree is not in the cards, then dig through hand-me-downs from big brothers, Dad, or even Grandpa or old Uncle Ernie. Instead of spending hours sifting through the racks at a generic secondhand store, shop from resellers who curate great-looking vintage clothes, and it's easy to stay within $100. Look specifically for older clothes that have circled back into style. This money-saving option is a great way to bring vintage pieces back to life, such as old denim jackets layered over fresh T-shirts and button-ups. Just be sure that the clothing fits so the ensemble does not look frumpy.

Get Nautical
Ahoy! The nautical theme is in, and dressing in modern sailor style is easy. Grab a blue and white striped sweater from H&M, and pair it with navy blue or white slacks. For shoes, slip on some Zig Zag plimsolls by Status Foe that complement the slacks or the sweater, and it's smooth sailing on the high seas.

Go for Versatile Kicks
Versatility is vital. Buying shoes that match a variety of outfit styles can upgrade a wardrobe without breaking the bank. Sneakers like NEO by Adidas are simple black and white but have enough style that they are easy to dress up if need be. Alternatively, opt for a pair of brown Persistt Oxford dress shoes by Steve Madden that go with everything from khakis to jeans.

Sport Slick Slacks
For under $100, a pair of slick looking slacks, such as J. Crew Essential Chinos, takes an outfit from tame to trendy. Couple fitted pants with a button-up shirt, and roll the sleeves back a bit so that the outfit does not look too dressy. When well kept, a nice pair of pants can last a long time and be a versatile part of your wardrobe.

Be the King of Jeans
Affordable, fitted white jeans work with practically any color top and go nicely with darker shoes. The only tricky part is keeping them clean between wardrobe changes. Dark fitted jeans, such as 1961 Slim Fits from Gap, are a great upgrade from the light-wash baggy jeans you've been wearing since high school.

Tie it Up
Ready or not, bow ties are in, and they're not just for fancy parties anymore. A navy blue Tommy Hilfiger bow tie gives an outfit a hint of throwback charm. Save some dough and find a less expensive copycat bow tie, or browse hand-me-downs from older friends and family for something truly vintage.

Find Day-to-Night Accessories
Accessories can easily take a guy's outfit from stark to stylish. Adding an item like the Polo Ralph Lauren reversible bucket hat provides a two-in-one style option, with a formal beige color and a playful plaid on the flip side. Similarly, when you get a reversible belt with a casual side and formal side, and you've killed two birds with one stone.

Choose Eco-Friendly Fashions
Wearing eco-friendly clothing is a major style movement that shows you're right with the times. Wearing organic clothing is an instant win. Environmentally conscious brands bring instant style points.

The only downside is that organic clothing can be pricey, so only opt for one or two moderately priced garments to stay under $100 for your new look. Once you go organic, you might never go back.

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